9 Top Digital Marketing Trends For 2022 That You Need To Know

Statistics showed that there were 4.88 billion internet users across the globe in October 2021, representing approximately 62% of the world population. This means that businesses, more than ever, have to create smart digital marketing strategies that will give them an edge over their competitors.

Creating an online presence is not enough. Digital marketing trends are constantly changing, so being up to date on marketing trends is vital. In this post, we look at the top digital marketing trends for 2022. Without further ado, let’s get started.

1.     Great customer experience will boost your business

According to a survey, 76% of consumers will switch to a competitor if they have a bad experience with a brand. This shows just how important customer experience will be. Competition is usually stiff, and one of the best ways to retain customers is to provide fantastic customer service.

Businesses have to ensure that customers have a great experience at every stage of the buyer journey. For instance, when a potential customer inquires about your product, you have to respond promptly. Also, if they have issues with your product, you need to provide a solution within the shortest time possible and ensure they are satisfied.

2.     Focus on featured snippets

Most businesses employing SEO strategies typically strive to get on the first position for their target keywords. Things are changing, and getting the first position shouldn’t be your only goal. In 2022, businesses will be focusing on securing the featured snippet – information on the top of the Search Engine Results Page (SERP) that appears before the organic results. Understanding search intent is a great way to develop content that will win the featured snippet, also referred to as position zero.

3.     The rise of voice search

Many people have been using voice-enabled devices and products over the last few years. A survey showed that 46% of voice searchers looked for local businesses every day. But how do you optimize your content for voice search? Think of questions internet users would ask voice assistants like Alexa and Siri and include the main keywords in your content. Try to answer these questions in the best way possible in your content.

As you optimize content for voice searchers, remember that more people search images online using services like Pinterest Lens and Google lens. Add alt tags or alt descriptions to your high-quality images before publishing them. This way, your images will appear on search engines when an internet user performs an image search.

4.     Use of live video

Today, the live video feature is one of the most important marketing tactics. Most social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter provide this feature. Consumers will usually not want to miss out on a live video from their favourite brand as it’s an opportunity to learn about new products or features ahead of most people. In addition, it allows marketers and business owners to interact live with their customers.

5.     Local SEO will vital

Marketers and business owners will focus on local SEO more than ever. Many internet users search for businesses near them. So if your business appears on the first page of SERPs, you will gain many new customers. Include your business on listings such as Google My Business and Yelp and provide all information about your business. Have a location page on your website where you list important information such as:

• Name, phone number, and address
• Open hours
• Description of your products
• Reviews

You can have various location pages if you target multiple locations. Also, target local keywords that your potential customers are likely to use when searching for your business.

6.     User-generated content

User-generated content (UGC) is quickly gaining popularity and is already used by many businesses. UGC helps marketers and business owners connect with the target audience and boosts engagement. Encourage customers to use your brand’s hashtags. You can also repost positive online reviews about your company on social networks.

Marketers can also find UGC by searching for brand mentions on social media. According to a survey by Stackla, 79% of consumers said UGC highly influences their purchasing decisions. This shows that UGC is here to stay, and it should be part of your digital marketing strategy.

7.     Push notifications

More people than ever are using the internet to access the internet. A significant number allow push notifications to receive updates from a brand they follow. More businesses should use push notifications to communicate and build relationships with their target audience. However, be careful not to overdo it as it could hurt your brand.

8.     Employ conversational marketing

Gone are the days when companies used formal means like emails or phone calls to communicate with their customers. More businesses realize the importance of conversational marketing. It adds a human aspect to marketing, and customers don’t feel like they are talking to robots.

Some personalization strategies include using the right social media channels and being available on chat to provide prompt responses to your customers’ pressing issues. This is a fantastic way to improve customer retention and loyalty.

9.     Leveraging influencer marketing

Influencer marketing isn’t a new concept. Influencers are individuals with a following on social media or even blogs who are authorities at topics they focus on. Because of their deep knowledge of a specific niche, they are trusted by their audiences, and they influence their purchase decisions.

According to a survey, 66% of businesses intended to increase their influencer marketing budgets in 2021. Influencers can drive traffic to your website and social channels, improve brand awareness and increase sales. Remember, you don’t have to use A-list celebrities to promote your brand or products. Many businesses have had success with micro-influencers, who usually have a dedicated audience and a high engagement rate.

Staying on top of digital marketing trends will help you grow your business and achieve your financial goals. The above strategies will help you boost your digital marketing strategy in 2022.