During the pandemic, businesses worldwide found themselves in a troubling situation. With lockdowns, social distancing measures, and a surge in online activities, the marketing and branding landscape underwent a dramatic transformation. Brand development and marketing would never again be the same. What emerged from this crucible was a fundamental shift towards a digital-first mindset. Digital marketing, while a consistent pillar of successful businesses, was no longer just a nice thing to have, but a necessity.
These changes won’t be temporary, and any business looking to succeed can’t afford to fall back into old habits.
Accelerating the Digital Shift
While the pandemic came as a shock, rather than pivoting the development direction, it accelerated an already growing trend towards digitalisation.
Online channels have become a non-negotiable for businesses who are aiming to grow their audience and subsequent sales. Ecommerce, video conferencing, and social media skyrocketed, exacerbating the importance of a robust online presence.
This shift was evident not only in B2C marketing but also in B2B. Many of the latter that relied heavily on in-person events, such as trade shows and conferences, had to adapt too. The digital shift was not a matter of choice, but a necessity for survival and growth, and those who were willing to adapt quickly have seen this pay off.
These Changes Won’t Be Temporary
It is crucial to understand that these shifts aren’t just a response to a crisis. As we settle into the post-pandemic, they are a lasting change driven by evolving consumer preferences.
During the pandemic, even those who didn’t usually shop online became more accustomed to the convenience of online shopping, remote work, and digital interactions. It’s important to note that even as pandemic-related restrictions eased, consumers continued to spend more time online, making it clear that the digital landscape had become an integral part of their daily lives.
The Rise of Content Marketing
In this digital world, content marketing has taken centre stage. Brands must create content that not only resonates with their audience but also offers meaningful content that people actually want to read. Customers seek value, authenticity, and meaningful interactions. In many ways, this is what they would often look for in brick-and-mortar stores, but the pandemic and other factors have accelerated the move of these values into the digital space. Brands that provide informative, relevant, and empathetic content are gaining trust and loyalty.
Content marketing encompasses various formats, from blog posts and videos to podcasts and infographics. Educational content, thought leadership pieces and content that reflects a brand’s social ESG efforts have become essential components of content marketing strategies.
Data-Driven Decision Making
With an increased reliance on digital marketing, competition has never been tighter. This is where data-driven decision-making comes in. Digital marketing provides access to a wealth of data on customer behaviour, which is one of its most significant advantages.
It’s never been easier for marketers to collect data for things such as website visits, click-through rates and social media engagement. This information can then be utilised to refine their strategies and campaigns effectively. By tailoring their marketing efforts to ever-changing customer trends, businesses enhance their chances of success.
Embrace Digital Today
Whether your business has already hit the ground running or is a bit behind the curve, OtherBirds caters to businesses of all kinds. Want to make a digital impact that resonates with your target audience? Get in touch today!
Watch for next week’s article, where we’ll look at more examples of how digital marketing strategies have adapted to thrive in this new era.
