Top Social Media Marketing Trends to Stay on The Lookout For in 2024

As we dive into 2024, the social media marketing landscape is evolving at a rapid pace, driven by new tech, and shifting consumers behaviors. Marketers should be on the lookout for several key trends that are shaping the way we connect with our audiences online. This article draws insights from leading voices in the field to outline what's next for social media marketing.

Generative AI's Impact on Content Creation

Mark Cai, a content creator on YouTube with 100K subscribers and an Enterprise Influencer Relations Specialist at NVIDIA, emphasizes the transformative role of generative AI in content creation. "The rise of generative AI will see content creators change the way they engage with their community drastically," says Cai. With tools like Midjourney and Stable Diffusion, influencers can generate images, videos, and other assets without leaving their computer. This technology enables the rapid testing of different content strategies, such as experimenting with multiple thumbnail versions for YouTube videos to optimize viewer engagement.

The Shift Towards Shorter Content

Echoing the sentiment of rapid technological adoption, Jessica Ji, an Influencer Relations Specialist at NVIDIA, notes a significant shift in content consumption patterns. "As attention spans decrease, content across all platforms - YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn - is getting shorter," Ji points out. Creators are increasingly leveraging quick, eye-catching videos to capture their audience's attention, even on traditionally text-based platforms.

"In 2024, I think social media trends will heavily prioritize video content, still focusing on short-form videos, but also live streaming. I also think that the integration of CGI (computer-generated imagery) will become more popular to the point it could even be the new normal. However, brands that are new to the game should make an effort to think of something that’s not been done before so they can have a WOW factor." - Maria Luisa Andreev, Marketing Manager at MAC Cosmetics.

Creating Authentic Connections Through Video

Isabel Hedlund, Senior Strategic Pricing Analyst at Lumen Technologies, highlights the growing importance of video content in building authentic connections. "Video content such as Instagram reels, stories, and TikTok drives engagement because it develops connections between brands and audiences," Hedlund explains. This trend towards immersive experiences, including virtual events, helps foster a sense of community and trust around brands.

The Appeal of Playful Content

Lexi Hutton, an MSM Student and BOMA Orlando Membership and Events Coordinator, has observed a move towards more playful and creative content on social media. "Companies are more creative, relatable, and entertaining. Consumers enjoy when companies act like one of them rather than reserved," says Hutton. This approach not only entertains but also strengthens the bond between brands and their audiences.

The landscape of social media marketing in 2024 is characterized by rapid technological advancements, changing user behaviors, and the continuous search for authenticity. Marketers must embrace these trends, from generative AI and the preference for shorter content to the effectiveness of video and the charm of playful posts, to create deeper connections with their audiences. By staying informed and adaptable, marketers can navigate this evolving landscape successfully, leveraging these insights to craft strategies that resonate deeply with their target demographics.