Is Your Personalization Strategy Relevant, Timely, and Context-Aware?
Hello again, Readers!
Last week, we took a closer look at customer experience, and now we’re leveling up. It’s all about personalization!?
In the digital world, personalization like your devices know you better than you know yourself!?
Like, you’ve forgotten your New Year’s resolutions, but your health app is still gently reminding you about them daily: “Here’s a reminder about those workout goals, It’s Day 265 of the year... just saying.”
In the end, when personalization is done right, it’s about making life easier—not creepy. It’s about being your digital assistant, not your digital stalker. So, let’s dive into how brands can improve personalization without stepping into the creepy zone.
In this week’s edition, we’ll show you,
Ready to make personalization personal? Let’s get into it!
1. Is Personalization in the Past?
Remember back in 2019 when Gartner predicted 80% of marketers would drop personalization by 2025? Turns out, they might have been on to something.
Fast forward to today, and while some brands struggle, others are thriving—thanks to smarter strategies and better data practices. The rise of zero-party data, AI-driven insights, and customer-centric marketing has helped businesses craft deeper, more meaningful experiences.?
Netflix and Spotify aren’t just guessing what you’ll like based on last week’s picks. They factor in everything, from the time of day to what’s trending in your circle. The goal? To make you feel like they get you better than your best friend.
Let’s rethink personalization. Focus on what actually matters—trust, relevance, and value. Want to be in that 20%? Read: Personalization Paradox: Beyond the Hype, Lies Opportunity? A Xerago POV
It’s all about making customers feel like they’re not just part of a list but part of the story.
You might also like: Explore Real-World Gen AI Use Cases for Next-Level Personalization
2. Say Goodbye to One-Size-Fits-All: Micro-Segmentation is Here!
First-party data with micro-segmentation takes personalization to the next level. By dividing bigger audiences into smaller, focused groups, businesses can deliver experiences that feel relevant and unique.
First-party data + micro-segmentation = personal touches that matter.
Why It Works:
Imagine an online store for fitness products. Instead of broadly grouping customers by age or interest in fitness, they dig deeper. By looking at what customers view on the site, they create smaller groups based on workout preferences.
For instance:
So instead of another “New Arrivals in Fitness Gear” email, each customer gets a message that speaks to them directly. It’s like the brand's saying, “Hey, we get you.” And that’s exactly why they’ll keep coming back. When customers feel understood, they're more likely to stick around.
That said, explore various ways you can use first-party data to get closer to your customers: First-Party Personalization - Creating Tailored Customer Experiences
3. The Creep Factor: How Much Personalization is Too Much?
Imagine you're shopping online for a pair of running shoes. You visit a website, browse a few styles, and maybe even add one to your cart. Later, you get an email with a discount code for the same shoes.?
That’s helpful personalization! But what if you start seeing ads for running shoes on every site you visit, and the website even asks about your weekend runs? That might feel a bit much – like the brand is watching your every move.
With smarter personalization comes a side of “mind your own business.” In a world that remembers data leaks and scandals like Cambridge Analytica, customers are picky about who handles their info.
The challenge? Striking that fine line between providing value through personalization and respecting privacy rights. To succeed in this new landscape, brands must:
1?? Keep It Clear: Tell people what data you need and why.
2?? Let Them Drive: Give customers control over their own data.
3?? Privacy is Key: Build personalization with privacy in mind.
The future of personalization is about connection and caution. Is your brand ready to walk this line? Find out how: The Fine Line: Personalization, Privacy, and Next Best Action Recommendations
4. Chatbots Are Ruling and Now, They’re Real-Time Ready!
Need to reach customers right now? Enter chatbots—the fast-talking sidekick to your marketing team. They bring real-time offers, boost sales, and keep customers smiling.
Cool Ways Chatbots Help:
A potential client lands on a software website, browsing through features and checking out the pricing. The chatbot, ready for action, pops up to offer a helping hand and some juicy insights.
As the visitor lingers on one feature, the chatbot gets excited. It shares a case study, showing how other companies have used that exact feature to save big. And, for the cherry on top, it offers a free demo with an easy link to book a chat with a sales rep.
The visitor leaves? No problem. The chatbot slides back in later with a handy guide on best practices, based on what they were exploring. This smooth move brings them back to the site and keeps them engaged.
Here, the chatbot is more than just an assistant; it’s an active partner in the sales process. It keeps things relevant, boosts interest, and guides the client down the path to conversion.?
Here’s why chatbots are a win:
With chatbots, it’s more than automation—it’s building connections that last. Learn more:
Recommended for You: See how Gen AI can bring your customer interactions to life
5. Apps That Get You: The Future of Personalization Seems Promising
Ever wish your favorite app knew exactly how you’re feeling? Emotional personalization is making that possible. Think of it like a digital best friend who gets you.?
Apps are using clever tech to sense emotions and adapt in real time – whether it’s sending calm playlists when you’re stressed or shortening a meditation session on a busy day. It’s all about creating an experience that feels less robot, more human.
Imagine a rough day. You open your wellness app, and it picks up on your stress through your smartwatch. Instead of a long meditation, it suggests a short, calming breathing exercise or a playlist with soothing sounds.?
Or think of a fitness app – if it senses low energy, it offers a gentler workout rather than pushing hard. It’s like the app understands your mood, not just your schedule, creating a personalized experience that feels caring and supportive.
Forget just good service; this is about real connection. Ready for apps that vibe with your mood? What’s next: The Future of Personalization: Emerging Technologies and Innovations
Thank you for reading this week’s newsletter. If you found these insights valuable, please share them with others who might benefit.
Next week, we’ll be exploring the transformative world of Gen AI – don’t miss it!
Until then, stay connected and follow Xerago for more insights.