The Torch: November 2023 Recap

It may be cold outside ??, but TorchLight is turning up the heat with a rundown of the latest seasonal marketing buzz. This month’s edition of The Torch looks at hiring trends, platform policy changes, and things you need to keep in mind as we head into the new year. Don’t miss out on next month’s scoop– subscribe now to stay in the loop!?

WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED???

Our poll last month showed a change in the job market. We wanted to investigate what exactly those recruiters who are hiring are looking for, especially as teams shift their efforts elsewhere to meet year-end budget goals. We asked our network what kind of marketing team members they would hire if they had the budget. Almost half (48%) voted for content marketers and social media managers. The remaining vote was evenly split between SEO specialists, email marketing managers, and paid social coordinators.

WHAT’S SPARKING CHANGE????

The year is coming to an end, but the headlines keep on coming. Our team poured over articles on changes in the marketing industry from the past month and found these five to be the most important. Comment below which Spark will most impact your team.?

1. No more LinkedIn carousels (again): A few months back, LinkedIn removed users’ ability to create carousel posts, forcing marketers to pivot their digital strategy to incorporate more PDFs. Now, the platform has announced the removal of carousel posts altogether by December 14, 2023, meaning the deletion of previously posted carousels, and also that clickable links within images or videos will no longer work.
2. Microsoft Copilot: Microsoft Copilot Studio, revealed at Ignite 2023, is a user-friendly tool for customizing and crafting personal assistant programs for Microsoft 365. It has foundational capabilities, like the ability to answer questions, create content, and reason over data. It works seamlessly with various Microsoft technologies to assist users in linking their copilots to business systems, empowering IT professionals to develop copilots that cater to specific roles. ?
3. Snapchat+: Snapchat has joined the ranks of premium platform experiences with the introduction of Snapchat+, the latest addition to the growing trend of paid subscription tiers. Priced at $5.99 for the standard monthly plan and $15.99 for an ad-free experience, users gain exclusive benefits such as early access to new features, the freedom to personalize the app's icon on their home screens, the option to designate a best friend, and the ability to amplify their stories for greater viewership.?
4. Pinterest improves linking: Pinterest has expanded its direct link feature to better serve seasonal campaigns, streamlining the customer journey by requiring only one click for users to go from a Pinterest ad to an advertiser’s site or store. Already, brands are seeing 96% increase in clicks to site and a 38% decrease in cost per outbound click for consideration campaigns. The platform encourages advertisers to leverage direct links for better outcomes during the festive season.?
5. Google’s cookie-free future: In a recent video, Google's team discussed post-third-party cookie advertising. They highlighted durable audience strategies, incorporating the Protected Audience API for re-engagement while upholding user privacy. The team reassured marketers that backend integration won't significantly alter setups on platforms like Google Ads and Display & Video 360. AI solutions like Smart Bidding, Optimized Targeting, and Performance Max aid marketers in achieving performance goals.?

FROM THE VAULT???

To celebrate the last newsletter of 2023, we’ve decided to change things up! Instead of featuring the latest articles from the TorchLight blog, we've chosen to highlight posts from the past—particularly those pertinent to end-of-year activities.?

1. Why Your Employee Performance Reviews Should Be Quarterly, Instead of Annually: It’s time to rethink your yearly performance review protocol. Consider quarterly assessments instead. By opting for this approach, you open the door to timely and relevant feedback that can significantly boost productivity and motivation in the upcoming year. Make the switch for a positive impact on both individual and organizational growth.?
2. Boost Your Job Search: Visibility on LinkedIn is imperative for finding success in today's job search market. Think you’ve already optimized your profile? Consider the platform’s resume-sharing feature. Boost your job search visibility on LinkedIn with the platform’s resume-sharing feature. Discreetly share resumes with recruiters, whether actively seeking new opportunities or passively exploring alternate career paths.?

1. How to Manage Your Gen Z Employee: The new year brings with it a wave of fresh talent excited to enter the workforce.?Gen Z, the first generation raised online, brings its own set of unique needs and preferences.?Managing them successfully means understanding their need for clear guidelines, meaningful feedback, and clear communication. Embracing generational differences enriches our collective experience, fostering success in a harmonious, diverse workforce.?

A WORD ABOUT OUR TEAM???

TorchLight marketing experts Shana Fitch and Diana Gardner led a panel discussion this past month as part of the Mid-Atlantic Marketing Summit. Focused on digital out-of-home (#DOOH) advertising, the presentation highlighted the eye-catching nature, positioning it as the "secret sauce" in your marketing toolbox. ?

WHAT’S NEXT????

As we embrace the festive spirit of December, we're excited about wrapping up the year on a high note! How does your team come together and celebrate during this special time of the year? Share your festive traditions with us in the comments!?

Looking for experienced marketing recruiters to meet your hiring or job search needs? We’re here to help!?

• Contact us about your marketing search & staffing needs?
• Search marketing, communications, and creative jobs?

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