ThinkOTB Agency

ThinkOTB’s look ahead to 3 marketing trends that will be big in 2024

November 27, 2023

It’s that festive time of year again! The TV is bursting with Christmas ads, some are pulling at our heartstrings, others have us hoping they do better next year. Supermarkets are now a wonderland of twinkling lights and the shelves are loaded with tempting bottles of cheer.

And here at ThinkOTB marketing agency in Leeds, while we’re munching on a mince pie (or two), our minds are buzzing with excitement for what’s around the corner in the world of marketing as we step into 2024.

So, put your feet up by the fire and let’s take a look at three  marketing trends that you need to be aware of in 2024 and beyond.

AI driven marketing will increase

As we head into 2024, AI is set to revolutionise how we market. Imagine creating ads and campaigns that are tailor-made for each customer. AI helps do just that, learning from heaps of data to understand what each customer likes and doesn’t. This means marketers can craft messages that hit the right note with each individual, making marketing more personal and more effective than ever.

With all this new tech, it’s also crucial to play by the rules. AI is smart, but it might accidentally create content that steps over legal boundaries (such as if brands use MidJourney) or doesn’t quite fit the brand image. So, marketers need to keep a close eye on what AI produces. Make sure AI content aligns with brand values and complies with laws.

As AI makes every part of marketing more connected to the digital world in 2024, the old lines between ‘digital’ and ‘traditional’ marketing will blur even more. Marketers need to be ready to use AI not just to automate tasks but to enhance creativity and make campaigns more effective.

Authenticity will be more important than ever

People are tired of surface-level fluff; they’re looking for real insights and stories that cut through the digital noise and strike a chord. That’s why more than ever, authenticity will be one of the keys to creating cut-through and driving success.

This means moving beyond traditional content marketing that’s become predictable and tired. Instead, it’s about crafting rich, authentic narratives that truly resonate with your audience. The authenticity of a conversation, the empathy in a message, the warmth of real connection; these are becoming the secret weapons in a digitally saturated market.

At ThinkOTB creative marketing agency in Leeds, we have nearly 30 years of experience in marketing and brand building. We’ve honed the art of unearthing and articulating brand authenticity. We believe that every brand has a unique story to tell. Our workshops are tailored to bring that story to light. Our team of experts guides you through a process of discovery, strategy, and creative storytelling. We’ll ensure that your brand not only stands out but also connects genuinely with your audience.

The rise and continuing rise of voice search

Voice search is rapidly becoming a dominant force in the digital landscape. Predictions state it could account for half of all searches soon! This surge necessitates a fundamental shift in digital marketing strategies. Marketers need to start adapting now to the nuances of voice search to stay ahead. This means rethinking how content is structured and presented, ensuring it aligns with the natural, conversational tone typical of voice queries.

In the realm of voice search, featured snippets and Position Zero take on even greater importance. Voice assistants like Siri and Alexa often pull answers from these snippets, making them prime real estate for visibility. Businesses are already working out how to make their content claim these coveted spots. As voice search grows, the competition for these positions will intensify, making it crucial for marketers to create content that is not only informative but also succinct and directly answers common queries.

Ignoring voice search is no longer an option for businesses. It represents a rapidly growing segment of the market, offering a new channel to connect with audiences. More than a trend, voice search is becoming an essential component of comprehensive digital marketing strategies. Brands need to consider how they can leverage voice search to provide value, such as offering promotions or updates, to engage effectively with their audience.

Fusion marketing is what awaits us

It’s clear that the future of marketing is a fusion of advanced technology with the innate human desire for genuine connections. For brands to thrive, they must navigate this blend of innovation and authenticity. Companies need to leverage AI to personalise experiences while ensuring their voice remains true and resonant.

The challenge and opportunity lie in harnessing these trends to create marketing strategies that are not only technologically advanced but also deeply human and engaging. At creative marketing agency ThinkOTB in Leeds, we are here to help guide businesses through this evolving landscape. We offer strategic insights and creative solutions that make the most of these trends. Get in touch.