We’re well on our way into the new year, and we’re already seeing some popular trends popping up in the digital marketing world.

And as any other industry, keeping up with these trends can make or break you as a professional.

Keeping in the know is mandatory in an ever changing landscape. So we’re here to help you.

Here are the five trends in digital marketing you need to know.

1. Social Media Marketing

Social media is here to stay. And for the past few years, it’s been trending. But it’s still one of the top trends in digital marketing because social media is still a key to good marketing.

It’s important to note that while social media is still popular, the ways users interact with social media are changing.

The days of simply posting flat content onto your social page will not get you the attention your brand needs. You’ll need to adapt to the changing social media platforms.

Quicker Information

The audience in 2017 wants their information quicker and more compact.

One of the biggest trends in digital marketing, and social media, that we’re seeing is video streaming. Whether it’s live or recorded, users are more willing to pay attention to short videos than reading through a long article or post.

You want to keep your users engaged. And so far in 2017, keeping an engaged social media account means getting your audience information quickly.

Changes in Popularity

Facebook and Twitter have always been the top dogs in the social media sphere. But this year there are some big names following close behind them.

There is a decrease in Facebook usage. In fact, studies show that between 2012 and 2017, Facebook usage has declined rapidly. But what’s taking its place?

Apps such as Snapchat and Instagram (and even Pinterest) are making huge jumps in usage. So what does that mean for the digital marketer?

Keep up with the trends in digital marketing and look at new platforms. Instead of focusing so much on marketing to Facebook, look into how business can be built with these other more popular apps.

2. Big Data

If you’ve ever read George Orwell’s 1984 then you know exactly how far technology can go.

But we’re not that far from that same scenario today. Big Brother is always watching, and his name is big data.

Increases in technology have gifted digital marketers with big data. And now it’s becoming one of the trends in digital marketing this year. But what can a digital marketer do with all of this information?

Software is able to pull all types of information from visitors to social media platforms and websites. Things ranging from age to location, you now have your target audience served to you on a silver platter.

Digital marketers can use this information to tailor content directly to their ideal audience. With predictive analysis, you’ll be able to target ads to customers based on what they’ve recently searched for or purchased.

It may sound scary, but it’s actually pretty cool.

3. Personalized Content

Big data brings us to one of the other trends in digital marketing – personalized content.

Marketers are shifting their focus from a broad audience, to specifically choosing a target audience to sell to.

Thanks to big data, you’re able to use this information to focus on one group of people. Now that you’re aware of the potential customers’ personality, you’re better able to create information that will benefit them personally.

4. Wearables

You’re seeing them more and more – wearable mobile devices.

Whether it’s an Apple Watch or an augmented reality device, they’re everywhere. Last year digital marketers focused on making sure websites were optimized for mobile devices (and you should still!) and now screens are becoming even smaller. In fact, the market for wearables is expected to reach $4 billion this year.

So with these types of trends, what are you to do? Roll with the punches! Just like adapting to social media and mobile devices, you must make sure that your information is adapting to these smaller devices.

You’ll need to adapt to reach your audience in the most effective way possible.

5. Managing Online Reputations

Remember back in the day when word of mouth would make or break a business?

That’s still relevant today, except the internet is involved. When people are happy or upset with a business or brand, they take it to the internet.

And we all know how permanent the internet is.

So one of the trends in digital marketing is making sure your online reputation is kept clean. What are some ways you can ensure that a business and brand is kept safe? We’ll give you a few tips.

Focus on Obtaining Positive Reviews

Even if you have some negative reviews or comments, there are ways around this. While you can’t necessarily change the opinions of the negative reviewers, you can wipe out their relevance by enticing customers to leave positive comments.

Encourage your customers to leave positive reviews on sites such as Yelp. These reviews are huge for future customers, as most people will check a review before purchasing a product or service.

Start a hashtag revolution on your Twitter (or any other social media platform) page that asks happy customers to share their experience. This way, current and potential customers will be made aware of the positive reviews.

Take Immediate Action with Negative Reviews

Did a previous customer leave a nasty comment on your Facebook page? Ensure that you’re on top of that comment before others join in. Things can get pretty nasty fast if you’re not quick to jump in.

Also ensure you work to resolve the problem immediately. Showing that your brand cares about a customer’s dissatisfaction will build positive feelings towards your brand.

Be on the Watch for Trends in Digital Marketing

Things are constantly changing.

As someone who is familiar with trends in digital marketing, you’re well aware of this.

However, there are some trends that somewhat stay the same – they may just change a bit. For example, the changing tides of popular social media platforms.

What are some other trends in digital marketing that you’ve noticed for 2017? Let us know in the comments!