January 2020. The world wakes up and shrugs off the hangover of New Years only to be welcomed into the new decade with a life-threatening virus making its way around the world. We can all agree that every single person – across the globe – learned a lesson or two during the pandemic. Lessons such as the importance of washing your hands, or how easily germs and viruses can be spread through social interaction. One valuable lesson we learned in the digital space was just how valuable connected digital platforms are when everyone’s stuck at home. Digital marketing is only going to grow through 2021 and beyond, so let’s take a look at a few lessons from 2020 that will shape digital marketing for years to come:
1. Remember Empathy
During times of uncertainty and high levels of stress and angst, people will invariably reach out to family, friends, and their community for comfort and support. Brands can also act as safe-havens for consumers, as is shown in the fact that 44% of people have started to use a new brand since the start of Covid-19 because of “the innovative or compassionate manner in which they have responded to the virus outbreak.” – 2020 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report
2. Stand Your Ground
What does your brand heart look like? This refers to your business purpose, mission, vision, and values. These should drive brand actions and interactions, and often play a role in how consumers judge the business in general. Civil unrest plagued 2020, and the brands that followed their moral compasses steadfastly remained relevant and supported. “44% of people say a brand’s values factor into their buying decision.” – 2020 Edelman Trust Barometer Special Report
