Remember when TikTok was just getting started? Well, 2024 showed us just how powerful short-form videos have become. Whether it’s TikTok taking over our lunch breaks, YouTube Shorts keeping us entertained on commutes, or Instagram Reels filling our evenings, these bite-sized videos aren’t just trending – they’re transforming how brands connect with their audiences.

According to Lifewire, these concise videos capture audience attention quickly, leading to higher engagement rates. Marketers are increasingly incorporating short-form videos into their strategies to boost brand awareness and drive sales.

The year past also saw podcasting explode into every corner of our lives – you couldn’t open social media or friends’ WhatsApp status without hearing about someone’s latest ridiculous take on our daily lives. From kitchen tables to car commutes, everyone seemed to be either listening to or starting their own podcast. Politicians traded stuffy press conferences for intimate conversations with voters through their earbuds, while CEOs let listeners peek behind the corporate curtain with surprisingly candid discussions. During the heated 2024 United States of America presidential race, these digital heart-to-hearts became so influential that many voters felt they knew the candidates personally – all through the power of a microphone and a good story.

As we enter 2025, these trends will persist while the digital landscape will continue to evolve at breakneck speed. Let’s explore three major trends that will reshape how businesses connect with their customers and practical ways to make them work for you.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Your New Marketing Teammate

Gone are the days when AI was just a buzzword. It’s now your secret weapon for creating personalized experiences at scale. If you haven’t jumped on the AI bandwagon yet, 2025 might be the year you’re left wondering why your competitors seem to know their customers so much better.

The Numbers Talk:

• Companies using AI in their marketing have seen their ROI jump by up to 30%.
• Here’s an eye-opener: 71% of businesses were already using AI to boost customer engagement in 2024.

Making AI Work for You:

• Think of AI as your personal marketing assistant. Tools like HubSpot and Salesforce Einstein can analyse your customer data and automatically send personalised recommendations that feel hand-crafted.
• Let AI chatbots handle the routine questions (they’re managing 70% of basic queries now), freeing your team to tackle the complex stuff that really needs a human touch.
• Use AI’s predictive powers to spot trends before they happen. It’s like having a crystal ball for your marketing strategy.

2. Voice Search: Because Typing Is So 2023

Remember when typing was our only way to search? Well, we’re now talking to our devices like they’re old friends. By the end of 2025, half of all searches will be voice-based. That’s huge for businesses, especially local ones.

What This Means for You:

• Optimise for how people actually talk. Instead of “best pizza delivery,” think “where can I get the best pizza delivered near me right now?”
• Create content that directly answers questions. Think about the conversations you have with customers and turn those into FAQ content.
• Get your local SEO game strong. Make sure your Google My Business profile is spotless – address, hours, phone number, the works.
• Consider creating audio content. Maybe it’s time for that business podcast you’ve been thinking about?

3. Augmented Reality (AR): Bringing Your Products to Life

AR isn’t just for gaming anymore. It’s becoming the try-before-you-buy standard that customers love. When retailers use AR for virtual try-ons, they’re seeing conversion rates skyrocket by 94%.

Making AR Your Secret Weapon:

• Let customers “try” your products at home. Think IKEA’s app that shows how that couch would look in your living room.
• Create interactive demos that wow your customers. Show them exactly how your products work in their space.
• Turn your ads into experiences. Imagine letting customers virtually “test” your products right from an Instagram ad.
• Host AR events that get people talking. Virtual store tours? Interactive product launches? The possibilities are endless.

Ready to Lead the Pack?

At Zekne Digital, we’re not just following these trends – we’re helping businesses like yours stay ahead of them. Whether you need AI-powered campaigns that feel personal, voice search optimisation that puts you on the map, or AR experiences that make your products pop, we’ve got you covered.

Want to make 2025 your breakthrough year? Let’s talk about how these trends can work for your business. Drop us a line at heyzekne@gmail.com or visit zekne.digital/contact us to get started.