5 digital marketing trends to watch in 2022

What a year 2021 has been! As wild as it was unpredictable, we’re so proud of our clients for finding creative ways to pivot and adapt to the ever-changing landscape. And, we’re wildly proud of our team for continuously pushing boundaries and exceeding expectations.

With so much to look forward to, we’re welcoming 2022 with open arms. We wanted to take a moment to reflect on the strange (yet hopeful) year that’s passed and think about the digital marketing trends we suspect will soon be dominating the digital sphere. Let’s get into it. 

 

1. Super personalization –  with a side of privacy 

Customers no longer demand a personalized experience – they’ve simply come to expect it. More and more, people look for not only products but for tools, information and support to suit their specific needs. But, new privacy regulations are challenging the advertising status quo, and businesses will need to act accordingly. 

Our recommendation: Take inventory of how you gather customer data. Note privacy regulations, like the iOs update and the pending removal of cookies, and proactively alter your strategy. 

 

2. Innovative design & pushing boundaries 

If art imitates life and life imitates art, this could explain the stunning, slightly chaotic design trends of 2021. We’ve seen the popularity of intricate maximalism, layered logos, and 90s nostalgia surge and don’t see the demand for these elements slowing down anytime soon. 

Our recommendation: Inspiration is all around us. Whether it’s in your favourite book or a new hiking trail, finding inspiration should be fun and definitely less work than it’s made out to be. Take a moment to think about what you like, and then experiment by adding something unexpected. 

 

3. Exploring the metaverse 

Facebook officially changed its name to Meta in 2021. Meta’s push into the metaverse is certainly noteworthy; however, they are far from dominating the sphere. Some may even say this move defeats the purpose of the user and builder-driven universe. But the name change of the trillion-dollar company highlights the coming year’s trends. 

Our recommendation: It’s time to look beyond the physical world, as you can now be in both and of neither. Experience the metaverse, where new opportunities lie. Accepting cryptocurrencies as payments (if available to you) may also be something to consider soon. 

 

4. Heightened focus on digital branding 

Interactive websites, flawless design and stunning socials are essential in today’s modern, socially-driven world. The Covid-19 pandemic has continued much longer than we’d hoped, and online branding and e-commerce still reign paramount. And, unfortunately, local businesses continue to face restrictions. 

Our recommendation: In our perfect, healthy world, digital and in-person, brick-and-mortar experiences with physical branding elements are both necessary. But for the time being, your digital presence should support e-commerce and a mobile-first environment. 

 

5. Accessibility for both in-person & digital experiences 

We wish we didn’t have to say this. But, if you’re planning an event, it’s best to keep it hybrid for now. As many folks head back to the office, some are simply not comfortable yet doing so, and we must consider this when planning events for the new calendar year. 

Our recommendation: Host the event, but make it hybrid with designated support for those tuning in online. And just in case, have a fully-remote backup plan. Accessibility will remain an important theme for years to come. 

 

A final word 

Regardless of what the future may hold, we’re going into the new year with a sunny, positive attitude and a wide-open mind. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for a wonderful 2021. 

Now, let’s all agree to leave behind those things that don’t serve us anymore (marketing-related or not!) and bring forward what lights us up into 2022. 

From all of us at Carte Blanche Studio, we’re wishing you all the best in the new year! 

 

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