As August 2023 unfolds, the digital marketing landscape continues to witness exciting shifts and innovations. Some trends are gaining momentum, promising a more personalised and engaging experience for users, while others might be losing their effectiveness.

In this blog, we'll explore what's hot and what's not in the world of digital marketing, including Twitter's rebrand to X, mass email marketing, and the use of image sliders on websites. Additionally, we'll delve into Meta's recent announcement for a more personalised app experience, the significance of personalisation, and the rising popularity of long-form and relatable content on TikTok. 

What's Hot: Meta's Announcement of More Personalised App Experience 

Meta's recent announcement to introduce "Following" and "For You" tabs for a more personalised app experience on Threads is generating considerable excitement. By tailoring content to users' interests and preferences, Meta aims to enhance user engagement and retention. If executed well, this move could lead to increased user satisfaction and higher levels of engagement, solidifying its position as a leading social media platform.

Will It Continue Decreasing in Engagement or Help the Record-Breaking App Grow?

While some users may appreciate Meta's efforts to offer a more personalised experience, there is also a risk of alienating users who prefer the platform's current setup. The success of this new feature will largely depend on its implementation and how effectively it matches users with relevant content. If Meta manages to strike the right balance between personalisation and user control, it has the potential to drive higher engagement and keep its record-breaking app on an upward growth trajectory. 

What's Not: Twitter's Rebrand to X 

Twitter's decision to rebrand itself as X has generated mixed reactions within the digital marketing community. While rebranding can be a strategic move to revitalise a company's image and appeal to a broader audience, it can also alienate existing users who are familiar with the original brand. The success of this rebranding effort will depend on how well X communicates its new identity and whether it manages to retain its loyal user base during the transition. Has Elon Musk made a mistake re-branding the famous bird logo? 

What's Hot: Personalisation 

Personalisation remains a top priority for digital marketers in August 2023. From email campaigns to social media interactions, consumers respond positively to personalised experiences that cater to their individual preferences. Leveraging data-driven insights and AI-powered technology, marketers can deliver content that resonates with each user, leading to stronger connections and increased brand loyalty. 

What's Not: Mass Email Marketing 

Traditional mass email marketing, once a go-to strategy for businesses, is losing its effectiveness. Inboxes are inundated with generic emails, leading to decreased open rates and engagement. Modern consumers expect personalised and relevant content tailored to their preferences. Marketers should focus on segmenting their email lists and crafting personalised, value-driven messages to make a more significant impact on their audience. 

What's Hot: Long Form and Relatable Content on TikTok 

TikTok, known for its short-form video content, is witnessing a surge in long-form and relatable content. Users are embracing longer videos that delve into topics in-depth, offering valuable insights and authentic storytelling. This trend presents a unique opportunity for brands to create meaningful connections with their audience by sharing relatable, informative, and entertaining content. 

What's Not: Using Image Sliders for the Main Banner on Your Website 

Image sliders were once a popular way to showcase multiple messages or products on a website's main banner. However, research has shown that they can be distracting and reduce conversion rates. Users tend to overlook the slides, and they can slow down page load times, negatively affecting the overall user experience. Instead, businesses should consider using static, compelling visuals with clear calls-to-action to drive engagement and conversions. 

As digital marketing evolves in August 2023, some trends are making waves, while others are losing their allure. Twitters rebrand to X, mass email marketing, and image sliders on websites are facing challenges in engaging users effectively. On the other hand, Meta's announcement for a more personalized app experience shows potential to drive higher engagement if executed well. Embracing personalisation and exploring long-form, relatable content on TikTok are strategies that are gaining momentum and can help businesses connect with their audience on a deeper level. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, staying agile and informed will be crucial for marketers to succeed in this dynamic and ever-changing industry.