Two thousand and eighteen is just a matter of weeks away. Brands are already wondering what will be the top public relations trends for the upcoming year and how they can stay ahead of the curve.
Here are three of what will be the top PR trends for 2018 that brands must be aware of and prepared for:
- Brand reputation. More than ever before brand reputation will matter to consumers. This means not only the cost and quality of a good or service but a brand’s story and its values. Brands need to capitalize in channels that they directly control – website, blog, social media – to convey this. In traditional media stories, brands need to be consistent with the values and story that they tell. This will earn greater brand loyalty and allow a brand to weather any crisis that might arise.
- Brands are going to have to address social and political issues. We live in one of the most polarized political periods in history. Social media and the 24/7-news cycle magnify this. While brands in the past have shied away from addressing political and social issues, today’s consumers demand that they do. This means in 2018, brands will need to take a stand and communicate that stand, making it consistent with the values and reputation that consumers believe the brand stands for. Avoiding controversial issues will not be tolerated by the consumer. Brands need to have their messages prepared.
- Influencer marketing increases. The power of influencer marketing continues at an accelerated pace. In 2018, the cost of it will increase, as will its power to sway consumers. Brands will need a clearly defined strategy to maximize their campaigns and stand out from the competition with influencer marketing.
Two thousand and eighteen will be a fast-paced year. Knowing the key PR trends and being prepared to use them will allow your brand to make it a profitable year.
