CONTENT WILL STILL BE KING: That’s right ladies and gentlemen, CONTENT, will continue to rule in 2012. But not just any old content, QUALITY CONTENT is what will make the internet world go around! And for that reason, I’ve decided to start blogging here on Sheer Social. So get ready readers for more how-tos, occasional videos and tutorials, and photos in 2012! If you want to run with the big dogs in social media marketing, the quality of your content will determine if you should stay on the porch!
MORE SMARTPHONES: Despite their ubiquity, not everyone owns a smartphone, YET! However, according to most marketing reports everyone probably will soon. Those who bypass traditional access to the internet via a computer, are searching the web, purchasing products, tweeting, posting pics to Facebook, watching movies, and playing games all from that little device called a smartphone. Thus, expect major brands and marketers to conduct mobile campaigns via text messaging, mobile social apps like Foursquare, and mobile web ads. So ask yourself how “smart” is your phone!
And if you were wondering which smarphone has the market “on lock”– as we say– it’s Android. Though iPhones are insanely popular, the customizable Android phones have caught the eye and the wallet of the American consumer. Blackberry is still in the race but the other two are running several laps around it.
MORE SOCIAL NETWORKS: Facebook is king of the social networking jungle right now, but Google+, Twitter, and LinkedIn have earned just as much respect in their own neck of the woods. There’s even a new one gaining much attention from those that like the idea of “pinning” your interests to virtual bulletin boards called, Pinterest. I hear you saying, “Not another one!” But keep in mind, YOU don’t have to be on EVERY network. Focus on hitting your target market strategically where they exist in large populations. For some that may mean Facebook or a branded online community.
MORE FACEBOOK CHANGES: Facebook is ever-evolving, into what we aren’t made privy to, but expect MORE changes and add-ons in 2o12. Right at the end of 2011, Facebook introduced its anticipated TIMELINE format to the world. If you want to relive your Facebook past, this new platform face lift is perfect for you. And with Netflix, Spotify, and other major brands partnering to bring their unique content to the social network, it will become harder to leave Facebook. Soon enough the social network will become your one stop shop on the internet!
MORE APPS: The mobile app market is booming, but in 2012 thanks to the iPad and all the similar wanna-be tablets, the production of apps for these devices is soaring. Thus social networking via apps is definitely on the rise. Seriously, if you can’t post content to twitter and Facebook via online application, try your mobile app. If your cell dies pick up your iPad and use its app.
PLATFORM INTEGRATIONS: Do you “check-in” to your favorite tv shows? Do you tweet or post to Facebook your reactions and opinions of live events as you watch them on television? Yes! Well the powers that be have taken notice. In 2012 expect your televisions and computers to merge to create “social tv” for lack of a better term. In other words, don’t be surprised when your online reactions become part of the show you’re watching in real time. CNN and other news agencies use this to gauge public opinion, and now tv programmers, show producers, and marketers will be thinking of creatively ways to combine your online and offline reality for extended engagement after the credits roll.
VIDEO STREAMING: Livestream, Ustream, we all scream for YouTube stream. Thanks to these tools and Google+ hangouts, Facebook’s partnership with Skype, JustinTV, and other online video tools, you don’t literally have to be “there” in person anymore to receive relevant information, visit with relatives far away, or enjoy a concert. Got a presentation? No problem! Fire up GoToMeeting.com, WebEx, or Slideshare’s Zipcast and present your report in real time to hundreds of virtual attendees. Save hundreds on travel and hotel expenses! Likewise, if you’re an artist bursting to perform for live audiences but have no travel nor venue budget invite fans to a Google+ hangout or a Livestream performance online and let the good times stream!
Undoubtedly 2012 will bring some new and exciting technology to our lives. Some will come and go and others may become “game changers.” The good news is most of it will exist to create a better online experience for customers and audiences. Yes, in 2012 it’s all about YOU, the consumer, and catering to your expressed likes and dislikes and online habits. Your opinions are more important than ever thanks to the internet and new technologies so express away!
