2024 Social Media Predictions

The year 2023 was a rollercoaster of trends and shifts in the social media realm. We witnessed groundbreaking shifts in how brands market to and engage with their audiences online. If these social media trends meant something to your business, you’ve most likely adapted, innovated, and thrived.

But what does 2024 have in store for you? This question should interest you if you’re a business owner looking to carve out a distinctive presence in the bustling hubs of Naperville, the dynamic streets of Chicago, or the thriving community of Des Moines. You must be on top of social media marketing trends to keep your brand relevant and engaging.

Whether it’s leveraging new platform features or tapping into emerging content styles, understanding these trends can be the difference between blending in and standing out. Read on as we unveil our predictions for what will shape social media marketing in 2024.

Increased Use of Generative AI

Generative AI has been a game-changer in social media marketing, especially since it hit the mainstream in 2022. Hootsuite’s Social Trends 2024 Survey shows that in 2023, 61% of organizations utilized AI to ease staff workloads, a significant step towards integrating technology into everyday practices. As we venture into 2024, this trend is not just holding steady but accelerating.

For instance, the use of AI for image generation is expected to see a 136% increase, with 52% of organizations planning to adopt this technology. But it’s not all smooth sailing, as the survey uncovers a gap between marketers’ enthusiasm for AI and consumer reception. Notably, 62% of consumers are reluctant to engage with AI-generated content, signaling a trust barrier that businesses must navigate.

If you are planning to leverage AI in 2024 to help your business thrive in the competitive Naperville, Chicago, and Des Moines landscapes, the challenge lies in redefining ‘authenticity.’ You need to shift your focus from who creates the content to the experience it delivers.

Does your AI-generated content resonate with your audience and align with your brand’s ethos? Success will hinge on striking the right balance between AI utilization and maintaining a human touch.

A Higher Demand for Video Content

In 2023, we witnessed an incredible surge in both the use and effectiveness of video content, and all signs point to this trend not only continuing but growing in 2024. According to Wyzowl’s State of Marketing report, 90% of marketers found that video marketing boosted their ROI and brand awareness. But that’s not all, given that about 86% reported increased web traffic due to video marketing.

Looking ahead to 2024, consumers are clearly indicating their preferences. Wyzowl’s report shows that 89% want to see more video content from brands. When it comes to learning about a product or service, 44% prefer watching a short video over other forms of content like eBooks, infographics, or text-based articles.

So, why this growing demand for and use of video content? The answer lies in its ability to engage and capture attention in a way that other formats simply can’t match. When you incorporate videos into your social media marketing strategy, it becomes easy to convey emotions, showcase products in action, and tell stories that resonate with your audience.

Long-Form Content Rising in Popularity

While short-form content, especially on platforms like TikTok, has dominated our feeds for the last few years, 2023 marked a turning point. We’re witnessing a gradual but noticeable pivot towards more in-depth content. For instance, remember when TikTok was all about those 15-second clips?

Now, they’ve expanded their maximum video length to 10 minutes. That’s a big leap, signaling a significant change in content consumption trends. The question is: why this shift?

The answer lies in audience preferences. While short-form content is fun and easy to digest, there’s a growing appetite for more substantial material.

People are looking for content that delves deeper, offers more information, and provides greater value. This trend means that it’s time to work with the best content creation services to create long-form content that gives people the whole story, not just a snippet.

E-commerce Through Social Platforms

Remember when social media was just for sharing cat videos and vacation pics? Well, now it’s also where your customers are window-shopping and, more importantly, wallet-opening.

According to the Hootsuite Social Trends 2024 Survey, the average social media user logs into seven monthly platforms, which is enough to make social media their second home. With this in mind, many businesses will continue setting up their digital storefronts where their customers are already hanging out.

E-commerce on social media is like having a party and a pop-up shop all in one. You’re not just selling products; you’re creating a buzz, chatting with your guests (aka customers), and making sales while at it.

You can use tactics like driving traffic to your e-commerce website or app, selling products directly on social media platforms, and engaging with customers and prospects directly on these channels. This strategy capitalizes on the average social media user’s engagement, tapping into a vast audience that logs in monthly.

Leveraging Micro-Influencers

In social media advertising, where everyone’s chasing the next big thing, here’s a fun fact: sometimes smaller is better. That fact alone makes micro-influencers the unsung heroes of influencer marketing. Sure, they may not be household names like the Kardashians, but in the past few years, they’ve proven to be just as mighty, if not mightier, in certain circles.

These individuals, with followings ranging from 1,000 to 100,000, pack a punch where it counts: engagement. Why does this matter to you as a business owner? Well, 49% of consumers depend on influencer recommendations before making a purchase.

And when it comes from someone they view as relatable and trustworthy—like a micro-influencer—that recommendation carries weight. In 2024, leveraging micro-influencers in your social media advertising strategy will add authenticity to your brand message. Their dedicated, engaged audiences see them as more genuine, making their endorsements more impactful.

Plus, here’s the cherry on top: working with micro-influencers is often more cost-effective than signing a celebrity. And in cities like Naperville, Chicago, and Des Moines, where local vibes and personal connections matter, micro-influencers could be your golden ticket.

Work With the Best Social Media Marketing Agency in Naperville

The social media landscape is continually evolving, with trends like the increased use of generative AI, the rise of video content, and leveraging micro-influencers shaping how we engage online. Staying ahead in this dynamic environment requires expertise and insight, which is where MACLYN comes in. Recognized as the best social media marketing agency in Naperville and extending our expertise to Chicago and Des Moines, MACLYN offers comprehensive solutions.

Our team of skilled social media consultants specializes in quality content creation in Des Moines, designing tailor-made content marketing strategies, and managing all facets of social media engagement. At MACLYN, we don’t just follow trends; we create paths that work for you. Reach out to us today to ensure your brand stays ahead in the ever-evolving world of social media.