2019 Social Media Trends

Image created by TMoller via Canva.com

Societal expectations of on-demand content can be summed up in one sweet Veruca Salt quote: “I want it now!” Smartphones and internet everywhere are pervasive communication elements that are products of technological advancement. In the U.S., it is estimated that nearly 93% of mobile phone users will own and use a smartphone. For better or worse, that compels communicators to give their audience what they want when they want it. And they want it now, so let’s get started. 

With so many avenues to reach an audience, how does a communicator stop traffic and get them to pay attention to what’s being said? It’s important to note that audiences expect to be involved, engage, and co-create with organizations and brands.

Let’s take a brief look at Buffer’s 5 data-driven trends for 2019 that are sure to stop them in their tracks:

Stories. “In-the-moment” content is quickly overtaking highly produced content. Stories are predicted to become the primary way to share content on social media, pushing aside the News Feed.

AI. Artificial intelligence (think: chat bots) are an up and coming communications trend. According to Buffer’s head of public relations, Hailley Griffis, “Many experts predict that by 2020, more than 80% of all customer service interactions will be powered by AI bots.” Whaat?! It’s time for communicators to hop on board.

Social media ads. Love ‘em or hate ‘em, they aren’t disappearing.

Social media TV and vertical videos. Did you know that 50% of videos are viewed in vertical format?

Omnichannel marketing replaces multichannel. Be present everywhere, at every touchpoint.

All of these tech-heavy trends are in response to the cultural shift in communication brought about by technological advances. Technology has opened the door to global communications, encouraging communicators to broaden their reach through innovative and creative means. Hear more details about the 2019 trends by listening to Buffer’s complete podcast below. Episode #127 covers the 5 data-driven trends.