Out with the old and in with the new! While the last year has brought us exciting social media and digital marketing trends (like the rise of brands on BeReal), the new year guarantees new trends are right around the corner. 

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Many of these trends will draw inspiration from 2022 but prepare for a few developments that could completely change the game. Keep reading for our list of 2023 trends to prepare for, and start brainstorming how your brand can integrate them into existing strategies!

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Authentic Brand Interactions

If you keep tabs on social media marketing, you’re probably familiar with the success of DuoLingo’s accounts. The language learning app has mastered the art of creating humorous, out-of-the-box content and equally appropriate copy and voice to keep customers engaged and interested. 

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For example, a typical TikTok video on the brand’s account might feature its signature neon-green owl mascot participating in the latest dance trend or meme and witty (yet relevant) responses to users in the comments rather than a dull how-to app explanation.

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In 2023, you can prepare for a lot more of these interactions. We’ve seen just how popular authenticity and transparency between brands and customers have become in recent years. 

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More than half of consumers say that they increase spending when they feel connected to a brand, according to this Sprout Social article. 

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So, what does an authentic brand interaction look like? The biggest takeaway is recognizing the humanity that connects us. So, ditch the robotic tone in your copy, crack jokes, and find out what really motivates your community of consumers. 

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Take steps like recognizing mistakes, addressing positive and negative feedback directly, and even providing insight into behind-the-scenes processes and decisions. The more open and connected you are to your audience, the better you can create and deliver a product that serves them.

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User-Generated Content

As one of the most popular trends of 2022, you can expect user-generated content to keep growing. What is it? User-generated content is multimedia created by customers that brands utilize on social platforms and in campaigns. 

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This form of content has sky-rocketed among the influencer community, where many young adults have found success when able to showcase products and services in a creative way.

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Often referred to as UGC, the content created is usually original and very organic, as it is not necessarily created with a specific brand guideline in mind. Instead, the entire point is to craft visual and audio content that appears natural and appeals to prospective customers who may not be familiar with a product or service through the lens of another customer.

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For some great examples of UGC, check out this page.

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Long-Form Video

If it’s not clear just yet, storytelling is one of the biggest trends to ride into the new year. Between the originality of UGC to the transparency of brand authenticity, customers want to know about the brands that will mean something to them. 

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Long-form video is a great way to show this! With the rise of apps like TikTok and even elements like Instagram Reels, videos have become a surefire way to gain immediate attention from a prospective customer when done correctly.

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Gone are the days of boring video advertisements and stagnant visuals. Instead, introduce exciting videos that genuinely express a narrative. Not only does long-form video offer a great way to explore new content, but it also gives you the opportunity to really showcase the why behind your brand.

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Is there a particular reason why this brand was founded? How does your product or service help people? Are there ways to create instructional or educational materials related to your brand? 

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All of these are great ways to dip your toes into crafting and editing longer forms of video. Plus, with constant updates on social platforms (like TikTok now allowing videos up to 10 min. long), there’s always a new area to explore or trailblaze.

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Wrapping Up

Overall, the upcoming year is sure to bring in new waves of creativity and a whirlwind of design and marketing trends. While you don’t (and shouldn’t) have to partake in every trend, it’s always a strategic move to have your eye on the future. Who knows, you may even explore a whole new channel of revenue that you never thought existed! So get to planning, and check out this article for tips on Q1 marketing for 2023.

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