Wondering if your 2023 content marketing strategy is still the secret sauce to digital stardom?
As spicy as you thought it was, this year you need to bring the heat. Every post, tweet, and video have to hook like a snack but feed like a full-course meal.
Whether you’re a solo marketer wearing all the hats or a small team with big dreams, it’s time to jazz up your approach. Get ready to swipe right on the freshest content marketing trends of 2024.
This post is based on an interview we had with Sarah Noel Block, owner of Tiny Marketing and expert in all things content marketing for teams of 0-2 people.
1. Content Calendars are a Thing of the Past
Remember the days when your content calendar was as packed as a New Year’s resolution gym? Those days are officially ancient history. Welcome to 2024, where the content marketing world has spun on its axis, making overplanning your content akin to rocking a beeper in the age of smartphones.
Gone are the times when every post and tweet needed a slot in your Google Calendar. Today, it’s all about capturing the moment. Imagine this: a world event happens, and your brand instantly becomes part of the conversation with a witty tweet or a timely blog post. That’s the power of agility in content creation.
Sure, having a rough plan is a good idea, but the real magic happens when you take unexpected turns. It’s about being as fluid and dynamic as the digital landscape itself. Overplanning? That’s just putting your creativity in a straitjacket.
And let’s not forget, in a world where algorithms change faster than fashion trends, sticking too rigidly to a calendar can mean missing out on those spontaneous moments that algorithms adore.
So, say goodbye to micromanaging every post, and hello to riding the wave of real-time relevance.
2. Tiny Teams Can Make a Big Impact, Too
Think you need an army to make waves in the content marketing ocean? Think again! 2024 is the year of the underdog, where small teams and solo marketers are making impacts as big as their multi-department counterparts. Picture David vs. Goliath, but in the digital marketing arena.
It’s not about the size of your team, but the size of your ideas and your ability to execute them swiftly. A two-person team? No problem! You’re nimble, quick to adapt, and can pivot faster than those larger, more cumbersome teams.
But here’s the real kicker: when your team is small, each member’s role is magnified, and so is their impact. You’re not just a cog in the machine; you’re the heart and soul of your marketing efforts.
And for those moments when you need an extra hand? Outsourcing to a freelancer or hiring a strategist can inject your campaigns with fresh expertise without overburdening your core team.
Remember, in content marketing, being small doesn’t mean thinking small. It’s about being bold, scrappy, and ready to punch above your weight.
3. AI is a Powerful Tool for Content Marketing in 2024
AI in 2024 is no longer a buzzword, it’s the MVP of interactive content marketing. Imagine having a digital dynamo by your side, one that doesn’t get tired, doesn’t need coffee breaks, and is always ready to tackle the next big task. That’s AI for you – the unsung hero of the digital world.
Today, it’s as essential as your morning espresso. From generating ideas at lightning speed to adapting b2c or b2b content for different platforms, AI is the ultimate sidekick for every content creator, especially when resources are thin.
But here’s the twist – AI isn’t here to steal the show. Advancements allow you to use it to automate the grunt work on less-priority platforms, so you can focus on where your brand shines the brightest. LinkedIn your main stage? Let artificial intelligence handle the choreography for TikTok and Instagram.
And for those worrying about losing the human touch, fear not. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Midjourney are the brush, but you’re the artist. It’s about blending AI’s efficiency with your creativity to paint a picture that’s uniquely yours.
So, in 2024, let’s raise a toast to AI-generated content – the behind-the-scenes hero making relevant content marketing smarter, faster, and a whole lot more fun.
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4. Video is Your Best Bet, Podcasts Second, and Text is Next
2024 is a multimedia extravaganza where video content reigns supreme – it’s the king of the content kingdom, captivating audiences with its vibrant storytelling. But that’s not the whole story. Podcasts, the unsung heroes of the commute and workout sessions, are your ace in the hole.
And let’s not sideline text-based content – the trusty old friend who’s always there, even when the Wi-Fi isn’t. Blogs and articles might not have the glitz of videos or the charm of podcasts, but they’re the backbone of search engine optimization (SEO), boosting your rankings and helping your brand get found in the endless sea of digital content.
In 2024, it’s not about choosing one over the other. It’s about using all three to create a content marketing masterpiece that resonates with your audience, no matter their preference. So, gear up to play the director, the podcaster, and the writer, because in this digital age, versatility is your ticket to the content hall of fame.
5. Short-Form Versus Long-Form: Choosing the Right Format for Each Platform
The question on every content creator’s mind: which road to travel for which platform? When there’s the option between taking the fast lane and getting to your destination quick or taking the scenic route, which do you choose?
Short-form video content, the sprinter of the digital world, shines on social platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. It’s all about capturing attention in 30 seconds or less – a quick burst of creativity that’s perfect for viewers with the attention span of a goldfish. Think of it as the digital espresso shot: small, but packs a punch!
On the other side, we have the long-form content format, the marathon runner. It takes its sweet time, but the depth and value it brings are unparalleled. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook appreciate this leisurely stroll, where audiences seek to delve deeper into topics. Blogs? They’re the libraries of the internet – a haven for long-form aficionados.
Now, picture yourself standing in front of these two options, the 30-second dash or the 15-minute marathon. It’s not just about time; it’s about matching the message to the medium. FAQs on your website? Keep it short and sweet. In-depth tutorials or thought leadership pieces? Let the words flow.
In this era of content diversity, being a versatile creator is key. So, whether it’s a quick flick or a lengthy script, make sure your content fits the platform’s glass slipper perfectly.
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6. Repurpose, Recreate, Renew: A Plan for Old Content
Now we’ve reached the recycling revolution. It’s time to dig out that old, dusty content sitting in the back of your digital closet and give it new life.
Repurposing content isn’t just about dusting off the cobwebs; it’s about reinventing it in a way that resonates with today’s audience. That webinar from last year? Slice it into bite-sized clips for social media marketing. An in-depth blog post? Turn it into an engaging infographic or a snappy podcast episode. The possibilities are as endless as your creativity.
But wait, there’s more! Renewing content is like giving it a second debut on the red carpet. Update the statistics, refresh the examples, and voila – your content is back in the spotlight, ready to wow the audience all over again.
And let’s not forget recreation – the art of taking the core idea of your content and reshaping it entirely.
So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to turn that old content box through the magical machine of creativity. Out come the sparkly, new, irresistible pieces, ready to capture hearts and minds once more. It’s sustainable, it’s smart, and it’s the future of the content marketing landscape.
7. Email Lists are for Connections First, Sales Second
In 2024, the name of the game has shifted from sales pitches to building bridges. Yes, you heard it right – your email list is less about pushing products and more about cultivating connections.
Think of your email list as a cozy coffee shop, where each message is an invitation to sit down and chat. It’s not just about broadcasting your latest offer; it’s about sparking conversations, sharing insights, and building a community around your brand. The customer experience is more personalized than ever, and your email marketing campaigns need to reflect that.
In this digital age, people crave genuine connections, and that’s where your emails shine. They’re personal, direct, and have the power to turn a reader into a loyal fan. Quiz and poll your audience, ask for their opinions, share behind-the-scenes stories – make them feel like they’re part of your brand’s journey. It makes for a personalized experience with metrics you can track—a win-win.
BONUS: Speaking of connection, influencer marketing is also going nowhere—but it is becoming sneakier. While it’s generally reserved for social media, you can benefit from influencer marketing via email by being a guest on someone else’s blast. It’s a good way to reach new audiences on an established list and increase brand awareness, as long as you provide relatable information.
And when it’s time to talk business, they’ll be more than just subscribers; they’ll be friends who trust your advice and recommendations. That’s the power of an email list built on relationships.
Stepping Up Your Content Marketing Game for 2024
And there you have it – a whirlwind tour of the content marketing trends in 2024. This year is all about adaptability, creativity, and connection.
Remember that the key to success lies in your willingness to evolve and embrace these trends. Whether you’re a small team making a big splash or a solo marketer connecting deeply with your audience, your journey in content marketing is about crafting stories that resonate and experiences that engage.
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