Keeping up with marketing trends is crucial for small and mid-sized businesses to remain competitive and relevant in a fast-changing marketplace. Trends like human-driven AI use, short-form video content, and sustainability resonate with modern consumers, helping businesses build stronger connections and trust. BIG DEAL Company is proud to already be using all of these predicted trends with our clients.

Short-Form Video Reigns
 
Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Facebook Reels, and YouTube will remain popular for short-form videos. Creative, bite-sized content that quickly grabs attention will be key to engaging audiences surrounded by marketing content on social media. Generational targeting will remain essential in determining which video platforms best suit your audience, which is why we sit down with each new client to determine which social media platforms will get the highest return on investment.
 
Personalization of AI Tools
 
Artificial Intelligence (AI) will be central to marketing strategies, enabling quick research, efficient content creation, and optimized ad creation – when used correctly. While AI excels at streamlining operations, personalizing content, and handling repetitive tasks, it lacks the human ability to empathize and connect emotionally, and it lacks the knowledge you and your marketing team have about your business – why we NEVER recommend our clients use purely AI-generated blogs or social posts.
 
Human oversight in AI-driven interactions and content is essential for accuracy and emotional connection. This balance helps build trust and loyalty, as customers are more likely to engage with businesses that prioritize genuine content and interactions over purely automated writing.
 
Focus on Sustainability and Transparency
 
Ethical and sustainable practices will appeal to eco-conscious consumers. We not only prioritize sustainability in our event planning services but prioritize it in our personal lives. Community support is one of our team’s core values, which is why we volunteer, donate, and market for nonprofits as individuals and as a company. We partner our marketing initiatives with local nonprofits to cross-promote causes while increasing visibility for our clients.
 
Transparency about data usage, AI-generated content, and business values will become critical for building trust and loyalty with audiences.
 
Micro-Influencer Partnerships
 
Collaborating with micro- and nano-influencers will remain a cost-effective way to reach niche, engaged audiences authentically. BIG DEAL Company consistently takes advantage of our connections throughout northern Colorado to get our clients’ content in front of a larger audience, by cross-posting relevant content on company pages, sharing content and events to local groups, and shouting out our clients on our business pages, newsletters, and website.
 
Zero-Click Content
 
Businesses will increasingly use social media to provide valuable, engaging content directly on platforms, avoiding clicks to external sites. Engagement is lost with each click, which is why we strive to provide relevant information directly on social media through screenshot-able infographics and action buttons to initiate a phone call, send an email, or purchase a product without leaving your social feed.

​Omnichannel Marketing Experiences
 
Integrating online and offline touchpoints will provide cohesive customer journeys, leveraging data from both to enhance experiences. We collect data from our clients’ social media pages, websites, and in-person events to guide future marketing efforts. And, while online marketing is a large part of our business, we find there is no substitute for a conversation at a local chamber event or a holiday gift delivered to a prospective partner.
 
Conversational Search Optimization
 
Businesses should optimize content for conversational queries and emphasize local keywords to capture nearby customers, which is why we take a human approach (considering, “what would I type if I was searching for this content?”) to determine keywords for our clients’ blogs and web page content.
 
Soundless and Visual-First Ads
 
In the overwhelming social media world of auto-play ads clogging up news feeds, silent ads with emphasis on visuals and closed captions are making a comeback. Ads that get your point across without sound also enable you to capture your audience’s attention in environments where sound isn’t feasible, like a waiting room or workplace.
 
Generational Targeting
 
As always, generational targeting is essential to get the content we create with you in front of the right people. Tailoring channels and strategies to different age groups (e.g., Gen Z prefers TikTok, and Millennials like email campaigns) ensures we direct your message to those most likely to complete your call to action, whether that’s a purchase, a donation, or a post share. 

Long-Form Content Resurgence
 
While short-form still dominates social media, in-depth articles and videos will remain essential for storytelling and expertise. Blogs, podcasts, and events offer opportunities for long-term attention from your audience.
 
In-depth articles, infographics, or guides are particularly effective in nurturing leads, as they address customer pain points in detail and educate them on solutions, moving them further down the sales funnel. For businesses where being an industry expert is essential, long-form content also provides depth, authority, and increased value to audiences.
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Contracting Is The New Workforce
The shift towards project-based work structures in various industries encourages the use of contract help. This trend has been increasing significantly in the US. Businesses prefer to assemble teams with diverse skills for specific projects, fostering innovation and efficiency. (Source: Forbes, "The Rise Of The Gig Economy And Why It's Different This Time")

Having a dedicated marketing team that actively monitors and adapts to these emerging trends ensures your business not only meets current consumer expectations but also anticipates future shifts. With the right team and tools, you can turn these trends into opportunities for stronger engagement, higher conversions, and sustained success.

Contact BIG DEAL Company now for a tailored marketing plan that suits your small business needs and budget - from a dedicated contract partner. 

​The holiday season is here, and for our small business clients, it's a prime time to connect with customers, boost sales, and create memorable brand experiences. As we approach the end of 2024, new trends are shaping how businesses engage with consumers. Here's a look at five holiday marketing trends we’re leveraging to help our BIG DEAL Company small businesses stand out this year.
 
Hyper-Personalized Marketing
 
Consumers now expect more than just generic messages. Personalization is key to catching their attention. Leverage demographic data and customer interactions to send tailored holiday greetings, product or service recommendations, or special discounts based on purchase history.
 
Email campaigns allow you to address potential customers by name; carefully managed email lists mean you can send various emails targeting different customer groups to ensure you’re offering personalized solutions to meet your audience’s needs.

Community and Nonprofit Initiatives
 
Consumers appreciate brands with strong values that give back, and the giving spirit is never stronger than during the holiday season. Use social media to show your audience how you’re giving back this season, and invite them to participate.
 
Hosting a toy drive, supporting a local charity, or donating a portion of sales can deepen customer loyalty and spread goodwill. Consider offering a nonprofit donation at checkout, donating in-kind to nonprofit events, or sponsoring a holiday fundraiser and inviting your followers (customers) to join you.
 
Collaborate on Social Media
 
Collaborating with other small businesses or nonprofits in your area can amplify your reach. Joint promotions, pop-up markets, or cross-promotions on social media are great ways to build community spirit and drive traffic.
 
This collaboration goes hand-in-hand with your support of community initiatives; be sure to mention any sponsorship of local charities and partnerships on initiatives that give back, tagging other small businesses and nonprofits along the way for increased visibility.
 

Holiday-Themed Visuals and Messaging
 
Holiday-themed images and posts are powerful tools for boosting small business marketing during the festive season. These visuals instantly capture the joyful spirit of the holidays, creating an emotional connection with your audience.
 
By aligning your brand with the season’s mood, you can enhance engagement, increase visibility, and keep your business top-of-mind during the holidays. Adding festive imagery to your social media, email campaigns, and website creates a cohesive, celebratory experience that resonates with audiences.
 

Prepare for Increased Customer Care Needs
 
The holiday season often brings a surge in customer inquiries, purchases, and service needs. Think of this as an opportunity. Respond to comments on your social media pages and posts promptly, boosting your credibility and increasing the reach of your content (social platforms put popular posts in front of more people). Each time you respond to a private message on one of your pages, you’re demonstrating your commitment to excellent service; and, every face-to-face interaction can leave a lasting impression.
 
Timely online interactions can turn inquiries into sales opportunities, as many customers use social platforms to seek immediate answers before making purchasing decisions. In a fast-paced digital world, quick responses can set your business apart and help you foster trust and engagement with your audience.
 

The holiday season is a golden opportunity for small businesses to connect with customers in meaningful ways. By staying on top of these trends and tailoring your approach to your audience, you can create a memorable holiday marketing campaign that drives sales and builds loyalty.
Need help bringing your holiday marketing ideas to life? BIG DEAL Company specializes in crafting campaigns that deliver results. Let’s make this holiday season your most successful yet.
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Event Trends: DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion)
While being equitable is the RIGHT THING, and really shouldn't be considered a trend --- it certainly is a hot topic and an area the BIG DEAL team wanted to highlight regarding considerations in event planning.

We have a FREE printable available below.
4 pages of important takeaways.

Events are aiming to be inclusive by considering local DEI initiatives, adjusting language to resonate with varied audiences, and choosing venues and suppliers that reflect attendee values. Several current factors are shaping DEI in event planning. Here’s a look at this movement and how event professionals can navigate it successfully:

Free download

2024 Event Trend: Shorter Lead Times
​There are several factors for this new trend including changing client expectations, the fast-paced nature of business, and ongoing uncertainties in areas like health regulations and market conditions.
Here’s a look at this trend and how event professionals can navigate it successfully:

***Download our free 4-page printable below

The Big Deal Team is always researching and brainstorming on ways to improve upon events. Our recent research has shown some eye-opening ways to enhance the future of events. Download the free printable below.

Colorado Event Trends in 2024 - What Your Peers & The Experts are Seeing

Dive into survey data and chime in with experiences- events are changing!
Friday, May 8th 11:30am - Online
 
BIG DEAL Company sent out surveys to industry professionals, event hosts, non-profits, event attendees, and service industry experts. YES! We are seeing a change in events and some trends worth noting.
Join us online to review our findings and have open discussion about what the future of events could look like.
 
Registration is free.
You will be sent the meeting link via email post registration.

​It’s so easy to get caught up in your same old routine when it comes to your marketing strategy.  BIG DEAL Company is always keeping an eye out for whatever the next big thing is.  Shake it up with this list of 2024’s list of projected hot marketing trends.

Two words…video content! - Video continues to dominate online content. Consider including video content in your marketing strategy, such as product demos, tutorials, testimonials, and behind-the-scenes.
 
Embrace the future – Let’s face it, artificial intelligence (AI) is our future and honestly, learning to use it can save you time and frustration.  Use AI to enhance customer interactions, automate routine tasks, provide instant customer support, and gather valuable data for marketing insights.
 
Interact with your audience – Capture the attention of your customers and clients with interactive content like polls, quizzes, and surveys.  Not only is it fun for them, but it also provides you with valuable data.
 
Go green - Consumers are increasingly concerned about environmental and social issues. Highlight your company's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
 
Give ‘em what they want - Tailor your marketing messages to individual preferences and behaviors. Leverage your data analytics and automations (like Google Analytics) to create personalized experiences that speak to their preferences.
 
Good old customer experience - Customer experience remains a key differentiator. Prioritize seamless, user-friendly experiences across all touchpoints (check out our Website Health Check Blog for a few tips) to enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Up your local SEO and micro-moments game - Optimize your online presence for local searches, as consumers increasingly rely on their mobile devices for quick, location-based information during micro-moments.
 
User-Generated Content – Not all businesses need or can get user-generated content, but if it fits your model, it can be a highly impactful way to tell your story.  User-generated content can build trust and authenticity while expanding your reach.
 
As you dive into the new year, consider diving into new ways to grow your marketing plan.  Be prepared to adapt strategies to your specific industry, target audience, and business goals. Regularly assess the performance of your marketing efforts and be prepared to make changes based on evolving trends and consumer trends.  BIG DEAL Company is here to help you through the jungle of marketing and we’re just a click away.

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, our industry and our clients are buzzing with excitement and questions about what lies ahead. From the evolution of technology to the changing preferences of event attendees, the landscape of events continues to transform. Here are nine predicted event trends for 2024 our BIG DEAL team thinks will hold true in the year to come.

​Micro events
Micro events are smaller events for 10-50 guests that Bizzabo reports are on the rise – a trend we’ve seen amongst our own clients. Micro events are more affordable in an industry with rising prices, personal and meaningful, and create the perfect atmosphere to network and collaborate.
 
Micro events also allow you to get creative with more venue options, unique experiences that are harder to replicate with hundreds of guests, and promote more interaction with guests leading to more meaningful and long-lasting relationships.
 
Year-round event cycle
With micro events comes the year-round event cycle. Where organizations traditionally held one supersized event per year, we’re now seeing a preference among attendees and our clients for multiple, smaller events throughout the year.
 
Mini events year round provide consistent education and engagement for clients and attendees, keeping your mission and brand front of mind in your community.

Sustainability is becoming non-negotiable
The sustainability wave is hitting the events industry harder than ever. Conscious consumers demand eco-friendly practices, and we event planners are stepping up to the challenge. Corporations are seeing their carbon footprint under the magnifying glass, which translates to their events. We’re seeing clients requesting reusable and recycled event materials, paper-free events, and simpler menus with vegetarian and vegan options.
 
From reducing waste and carbon footprints to sourcing local and sustainable materials, 2024 will witness a significant push towards greener events.
 
Immersive experiences
Event attendees continue to seek more all-encompassing, out-of-the-box event experiences – which is where our creative events team excels. Gone are the days of conferences in dimly lit rooms with stale coffee. Natural light, outdoor and nature-influenced spaces, and flexible, intimate settings are increasingly popular.
 
These new event experiences are worth investing in; they are memorable for attendees and yield higher ROI than events of the past.
 
New technology standards
Technology also plays a role in event experiences. Attendees can expect to interact with products, venues, or speakers in new dimensions through Augmented, Mixed, and Virtual Reality, enhancing engagement and leaving lasting impressions.
 
In the background, technologies enable more data collection for event planners than ever, leading to better understanding of guest preferences for future events.
 
Personalization
Tailoring experiences to individual preferences will be a key focus in 2024. From personalized event agendas to curated content based on attendee interests, the emphasis on creating unique, customized experiences will be paramount. AI-driven tools will play a significant role in analyzing attendee data to deliver personalized experiences.
 
Health and safety continue to drive decisions
Post-pandemic, health and safety considerations remain at the forefront of event planning. Enhanced hygiene protocols and contactless technology will persist in 2024. Event planners will continue to prioritize attendee well-being, ensuring that events are not only memorable but also safe spaces for everyone involved.
 
Diverse and inclusive programming
Diversity and inclusion will be woven into the fabric of events more consciously. 2024 will witness a broader representation of cultures, perspectives, and voices. Events will celebrate diversity through inclusive programming, diverse speaker line-ups, and initiatives fostering equality and representation.

Hybrid events aren’t going anywhere
The rise of hybrid events isn't slowing down. In 2024, we expect them to become even more prevalent. The blending of in-person and virtual elements will cater to diverse audiences, allowing greater accessibility and participation regardless of geographical constraints. The ultimate goal is to seamlessly integrate both worlds, ensuring that remote attendees have an equally immersive and engaging experience.
 
As always in the world of events, the key lies in staying adaptable, innovative, and responsive to the ever-evolving needs and desires of attendees. Our BIG DEAL team is excited to be a part of this journey towards redefining the future of gatherings.
 
For more business marketing tips and ideas, follow BIG DEAL Company on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.