The Top Content Marketing Trends of 2024: What You Need to Know

We made it to 2024! As crazy as the last few years have been, content marketing continues to rapidly evolve. This is thanks to new technologies, changing consumer behaviors, and innovations across digital platforms and devices.

In this blog post, we'll explore five key content marketing trends that marketers should watch closely this year. From augmented reality taking center stage to the rise of personalization powered by AI, these trends will shape how brands tell stories, engage audiences, and drive business success through content experiences.

Let's look at the top trends in 2024:

Augmented reality changes the content game

While virtual reality devices still seem clunky for prime time, its sister technology augmented reality (AR) is leaping ahead. Sophisticated yet accessible AR experiences are enabled through smartphones and apps. The ability to digitally layer interactive graphics, 3D characters, and all kinds of virtual objects into real-world scenes allows for next-generation storytelling and consumer engagement.

Look for AR to take content marketing to new dimensions in areas like product demonstrations, interactive brand stories, immersive shoppable catalogs, and location-based gaming. Branded content innovation opportunities are endless.

AI Closes the Personalization Gap

Artificial intelligence has promised hyper-personalized consumer experiences for years. In 2024, AI is finally making a difference in helping marketers and content teams deliver. From predictive web content that serves up relevant recommendations before visitors ask, to custom-tailored email and social campaigns crafted for micro-segments of one, AI is the new powerhouse behind truly individualized digital engagement.

Brands who leverage AI through customer data platforms and built-in platform algorithms will stay ahead of the pack. We’ll see superior content experiences and consumer loyalty growth as a result.

AI tools will become more adept at creating and optimizing content in 2024. From writing blog posts to creating video scripts, AI's role in content generation will continue to expand. Additionally, AI will be able to assist in optimizing content for SEO, ensuring better visibility and reach. AI is poised to significantly impact content creation and optimization, fundamentally changing how marketers approach these critical aspects of digital marketing.?

CMS Wire

Video Becomes Micro and Vertical

If TikTok has taught us anything in the past few years, it’s that audiences crave on-demand short-form video content. While popularity has peaked, the micro-video trend is expanding across digital platforms in both horizontal and vertical formats. Social sites like YouTube, Instagram, and Pinterest now feature bite-sized videos.

This explosion of small videos represents a prime opportunity for marketers. Quick-hitting 3-5 minute videos can demonstrate products, offer how-tos, provide behind-the-scenes looks, and more. Vertical video also allows stand-out mobile viewing experiences.

Live-Streaming Levels the Playing Field

Digital platforms have opened up robust live broadcasting capabilities for everyday brands. And consumers can’t get enough of real-time engagement. That could mean a Q&A with a popular product designer, a virtual store tour, or even a live webinar unveiling upcoming offerings.

But brands should use live features thoughtfully. The strongest behind-the-scenes streams that feel raw and authentic perform best. This trend allows marketers to build communities through interactive events and conversations.

Live streaming isn’t just popular on social media platforms like Twitch, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. Fitness platforms like iFit and Peloton now offer live streamed workout classes, helping users exercise at home and on their own schedule. Meanwhile, music streaming platform Spotify has been live streaming virtual concerts in an attempt to bring audiences together. All in all, live streaming offers individuals a chance to connect with others safely and without many of the costs that go into traveling to in-person events.?

Forbes

Podcasting Continues to Climb

Let’s close with podcasting continuing to rise in popularity. Podcast ad revenue in the U.S. is projected to top $2 billion this year as listenership expands across all demographics. Savvy marketers explore branded podcast content to drive deeper consumer connections through storytelling. Whether companion podcasts supporting other content initiatives or standalone branded programs, marketers recognise podcasting’s ability to inform and engage audiences.

From AR to AI, micro-video to live streams, these content trends promise exciting innovations for marketers in 2024. As strategies adapt to evolving technologies and user behaviors, consumable and interactive content remains king. Brands who provide value and entertainment through compelling digital experiences will capture audience mindshare this year and into the future.