Content Marketing Trends 2024

Attention and trends:

Posting content online has changed in the past couple of months. Just uploading an image without really understanding the audience doesn't make sense. 

Going into the next year, you have to understand where the attention is online. You have to understand what social media networks are trendy, and what type of content is mostly consumed. And when I say content, I'm not just talking about images versus videos. It's about knowing whether it's how-to videos, vlogs, or those talking head videos – understanding what resonates with users online.

If you want to stay relevant with your content marketing, whether it's organic or paid marketing, you want to incorporate trends. By trends, I'm not talking about the latest lip-synch video that went viral for a hot minute on TikTok. I'm talking about actual current events and trends that are happening in the world. Take, for example, the global chat about the Barbie movie. The trick is finding clever innovative ways to weave these trending topics into your marketing.

Whether it's creating attention-grabbing graphics for social media or throwing in some humor that ties back to the event. Another trending topic that everyone has heard of is definitely Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce. Finding smart ways on how to incorporate those trending events into your marketing can draw more eyes to your content and keep you in the game.

You can still incorporate branding by utilizing specific elements such as the same tone, or tag lines. But if you want to be truly successful, if you want to rock the content creation world, paid or not, you've got to ride the current wave. Be flexible, open-minded, and get that not every trend might seamlessly fit your branding. As long as it alligns with your core message and values, you should go for it. It's a trend feels forced people will notice it, and it is not going to provide any value to you.

Artifical Intelligence

You can either decide to embrace AI technology or abandon it and pretend it does not exist. I suggest you lean all in and harness the power of AI for your business. 

AI is here to stay whether you like it or not. Will it change how we interact with certain things? Yes. 

The main reason why many people don't want to lean into artificial intelligence is because of the fear that artificial intelligence will eliminate jobs or take away their jobs. While I'm not sitting here pretending that this is not going to happen,of course, it can happen just like horses were replaced by cars.

Back in the day, you'd step into an elevator, and there was that person who graciously pressed the button for you. Fast forward to today, and that role has been taken over by the "speaking elevator." It's a snapshot of how technology propels us forward, transforming traditional tasks and sometimes replacing certain jobs.

As a Solarpreneur or small business owner, embracing technology is the key to propelling your company to the next level. You don't want to be that business owner who hesitates to lean into technology, only to be left behind while your competition surges ahead and absorbs your market share.

Sure, technology might replace certain roles, but here's the flip side – it creates new opportunities. Instead of fearing the shift, use it to your advantage. Incorporate tech solutions, automate where you can, and discover the myriad ways it can enhance your business operations.

Think about it – the person who used to press the elevator button might have lost their job, but now there's an opportunity for someone to design, create, and maintain the speaking elevator. 

So, Solarpreneurs and small business owners, don't shy away from technology. Lean into it, harness its power, and watch your company soar to new heights. Because in the fast-paced world of business, being tech-savvy isn't just an option; it's a survival strategy.

Social media networks

Going into 2024, you need to be on LinkedIn and really understand this platform. This social network is not just for people looking for their next gig but for small business owners, managers, and executives. You want to build credibility to establish yourself as a thought leader in your niche. 

LinkedIn is a great way to showcase your own opinions and connect with like-minded people. You want to create original content on the platform instead of simply reposting someone else’s thought because a re-post would only be seen by roughly one percent of your followers. Therefore you want to create original content based on your experiences from your day-to-day job for instance. I always recommend thought-provoking statements or pieces that may go against what everyone else thinks to really position yourself as a leader.

Utilizing LinkedIn aggressively over the next year can help you connect with potential clients. Focus on establishing yourself as a thought leader in your niche to build credibility. 

What to focus on less:

Stressing about SEO

Chat GPT disrupted the way we engage with the internet to ask questions, which has a huge impact on search traffic. For straightforward questions like "What's in my medication?" or seeking explanations on various topics, users now frequently turn to Chat GPT and similar platforms. The appeal lies in the conversational and interactive nature of these tools, allowing users to receive personalized and immediate responses.

Users turn to Google to search for "best taco restaurant in my area" for more up to date information. Google's search algorithms are adept at providing real-time results based on factors such as user reviews, recent ratings, and the current popularity of local establishments.

The way people search has evolved. Banking solely on traditional SEO practices might not be the most effective use of your time and resources. Why? Because the game has changed. With the rise of artificial intelligence tools like Chat GPT, user behaviors have shifted. More and more, people are turning to these intelligent tools for quick and tailored answers.

Additionally, platforms like TikTok and YouTube have become go-to sources for information. Users are increasingly relying on video content to address their queries. It's not just about typing keywords into a search engine; it's about engaging with dynamic and interactive content that provides instant solutions.

As a brand or company, it's essential to align your focus with these shifting trends. Instead of investing heavily in traditional SEO strategies, consider adapting to the changing landscape. Leverage AI tools to understand user intent and deliver content that aligns with their preferences.