'In 2015 brands were pushed to make bolder, riskier campaigns'

Social platforms

 

Social continued its trailblazing path in 2015 and it’s only set to become more and more important through 2016 and beyond. It is estimated that over 35% of the world’s population uses some form of social media, with many regularly spending over an hour across various platforms a day, which is why getting it right on the social front is so important.

 

Although Facebook continues to be the most widely used platform, the first three months of 2016 see further restrictions on brand promotion, which means marketers could struggle to reach communities organically as before. Budgets may need to be put towards amplifying posts, or turning to other platforms.  This may be to the sacrifice of the more traditional marketing methods.

 

Instagram has continued its rise up the social media ranks and now challenges Twitter for that second place spot. Learning to adapt your content and key messages to Instagram is becoming increasingly important and can result in access to markets you previously had struggled to relate to – particularly those in the 16-30 bracket. 2016 will no doubt see more and more companies turn to Instagram, make sure you don’t get left behind. 

 

While live streaming platforms like Periscope and Meerkat have made their impact in 2015, they haven’t reached their full potential yet.  In 2016 they will grow, and are worth exploring, if you haven’t already.

 

There are a number of up-and-coming platforms that I believe are set to be key in 2016. Of them, Medium is the one to explore. Created by Evan Williams, co-founder of Twitter, and already boasting in excess of 13 million unique users a month, 2016 is set to be a big year for the San Francisco based company. As marketers, an instrumental part of our role is to keep up with trends. The phrase ‘innovate or die’ has never been more true - the brands that fail to adapt, fall behind.