7 Top Content Marketing Trends 2024 [+ Tips and Tricks]

By Intelligent Relations Team

September 25, 2023

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Consumer preferences evolve continuously, and the content that resonates today may not tomorrow.

Plus, technologies and platforms are always emerging. 

That’s why staying up to date on the latest content marketing trends is not just a choice, it’s a necessity.

We get it. 

Developing the perfect marketing strategy can take a lot of time and effort. And with the overwhelming volume of new information, it may be challenging to stay updated on the latest content marketing trends.

Plus, you need to remain competitive and effective in your content strategies to position yourself as an industry leader. Not to mention that you have to maintain consumer trust. 

Consumers are more likely to trust brands that demonstrate a commitment to staying relevant. Outdated content or marketing strategies can erode trust and credibility. It’s important to deliver fresh content that reinforces your relevance and authority.

If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on the top content marketing trends for 2024.

We’ve outlined seven of the key digital marketing trends for 2024. Read on to find out which platforms, strategies, and technologies to put into your content toolbox.

Our 7 Top Content Marketing Trends 2024

• Artificial Intelligence
• Short-Form Video
• Influencer Marketing
• Strategic SEO
• Thought Leadership
• Podcasts

1. Artificial Intelligence

One of the top content marketing trends for 2024 is using AI to generate content. Through natural language processing models like GPT-4, content marketers now have tools that autonomously create text for various content types. 

That includes but is not limited to: 

• Articles 
• Product Descriptions 
• Chatbot Responses
• Small Copywriting Projects 

These models are trained on vast datasets and can generate coherent and contextually relevant content by predicting the most likely next word or phrase based on the input provided. 

Plus, this technology has significantly streamlined content creation processes. 

It enables marketers to produce large volumes of content quickly and cost-effectively. That’s while also allowing for personalized content generation tailored to individual user preferences and needs.

Here’s why AI is all the rave as one of the top content marketing trends:

• Streamlined Content Generation: AI-powered natural language generation (NLG) tools like GPT-4 can help save time and resources. However, human review is still necessary to ensure quality.
• Content Personalization: AI algorithms analyze user data and behavior to deliver personalized content recommendations. This increases user engagement by providing relevant content tailored to individual preferences.
• Content Optimization: AI-driven SEO tools help optimize content for search engines. They suggest keywords, improve readability, and analyze competitors. This can enhance your content’s visibility and ranking in search results.
• Content Curation: AI can automate content curation by aggregating and recommending relevant articles, news, and social media updates. This keeps audiences informed and engaged with fresh, topical content.
• A/B Testing: AI can conduct A/B tests on different content variations, headlines, or images. This determines what performs best and aids in content optimization.
• Content Quality Assurance: AI tools can check content for compliance with legal and ethical standards, such as copyright checks and plagiarism detection. This ensures that your content maintains brand integrity.
• Content Strategy and Planning: AI assists in content strategy by providing data-driven insights into trending topics, competitive analysis, and audience behavior. This helps you make informed decisions.

Pro Tip: When you enter a prompt into an AI tool, it can generate relevant content. However, it’s best to give AI-generated content a quality check. Sometimes, AI-generated content lacks coherency. Moreover, it can generate outdated or factually incorrect information (known as hallucinations). Be sure to always edit and fact-check AI-generated content. 

Want a list of general digital marketing trends for 2024? Then you’ll want to check out our article: 15 Digital Marketing Trends Worth Your Attention in 2024

2. Short-Form Video Content

Short-form video has emerged as one of the leading content marketing trends due to its remarkable ability to capture audience attention. 

These bite-sized videos are typically under 60 seconds. They are highly consumable and shareable on social media platforms, making them ideal for reaching wider audiences. 

Short-form videos cater to the modern audience’s preference for quick and engaging content. Yet they can still deliver information and entertain audiences. Plus, they can convey product messages effectively.

One recent survey revealed that 96% of marketers saw an increase in user understanding in their product or service after creating video content.  

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have fueled the rise of short-form video. These platforms offer brands a platform to creatively showcase their products and services. 

The format also encourages creativity, storytelling, and interactivity. This enables you to connect with your audience authentically and foster greater engagement and brand awareness.

Here are the key reasons why short-form video is one of the top content marketing trends of 2024:

• Social Media Marketing: YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram Reels are ideal for sharing short, attention-grabbing videos. You can use these platforms to create entertaining or informative content that engages your target audience.
• Product Demonstrations: Short videos can showcase product features, benefits, and how-to’s. They provide a quick and visually appealing way to highlight a product’s value and usage. This increases the likelihood of conversions.
• Behind-the-scenes Content: Short videos offer a glimpse into the inner workings of your brand. This can be interviews with team members or the production process.
• Customer Testimonials: Encourage satisfied customers to share their experiences in short video testimonials. These authentic endorsements can persuade others to try your products or services.
• Event Promotion: Short videos can generate excitement and anticipation for webinars and product launches. Teasers, highlights, and event countdowns work well in this context.
• Educational Content: Short videos can offer quick tips and hacks. Educational content is highly shareable and positions your brand as an authority in your industry.
• Teasers and Previews: Give your audience a sneak peek of upcoming content, products, or initiatives. This can build anticipation and generate interest.

Want to know more about using social media to promote your PR and marketing content? Then check out our dedicated guide: Social Media PR – 6 Easy Ways to Connect with Your Target Audience

3. LinkedIn Content

LinkedIn has emerged as one of the leading B2B content marketing trends due to its unique positioning as a professional networking platform. It offers a platform for you to connect with B2B audiences. And it allows you to showcase thought leadership in your field and foster valuable relationships. 

The platform’s algorithm amplifies the visibility of posts and articles. It’s an excellent platform to share industry insights, thought-provoking content, and engaging visuals. 

LinkedIn also has powerful networking capabilities and lead-generation potential. Plus, its analytics tools can help you track your content’s performance.

Here’s why LinkedIn has become essential for anyone following B2B content marketing trends:

• Professional Audience: LinkedIn’s user base consists of professionals, decision-makers, and businesses. This means your B2B content is more likely to reach a relevant and engaged audience.
• Thought Leadership: LinkedIn allows you to establish yourself as a thought leader. You can consistently publish insightful content that can enhance your brand’s credibility.
• Networking Opportunities: The platform’s networking features enable you to connect with potential partners, clients, and industry peers. 
• Targeted Advertising: LinkedIn offers robust targeting options for B2B marketers. This allows you to reach specific demographics, job titles, and industries. 
• Content Visibility: LinkedIn’s algorithm prioritizes content that resonates with its users. Well-received content often gains more visibility, likes, shares, and comments. This helps you reach a wider and more engaged audience.
• Lead Generation: You can use LinkedIn to generate leads by sharing gated content. This includes whitepapers, e-books, or webinars. Users interested in accessing this content can provide their contact information. This helps you build a list of potential leads.
• Analytics and Tracking: LinkedIn provides analytics tools that allow you to measure your B2B content’s performance. You can track engagement metrics, follower growth, and demographic insights.

4. Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing has grown in popularity in recent years. It remains one of the top content marketing trends due to its ability to leverage authenticity and reach. It’s an effective way to target and engage your desired audience and convey your brand’s message. 

Influencers often create content that feels relatable by integrating authentic brand messages into their narratives. This approach fosters deeper connections, drives brand awareness, and bolsters customer trust. 

Moreover, influencer marketing offers a dynamic means of storytelling. It also leverages a diverse array of content formats and platforms. This makes it an impactful strategy in today’s marketing landscape.

• Enhanced Credibility: Influencers often have established credibility and authority within their niche. When they endorse or create content related to your brand, it lends credibility and authenticity.
• Extended Reach: Influencers have dedicated followings. Partnering with influencers allows your content to reach a broader and more diverse audience. 
• Targeted Audience: Influencers typically have followers who share common interests or demographics. Partnering with the right influencer ensures that your content is seen by your target audience.
• Authenticity: Influencers connect with their followers on a personal level. Their endorsements or content creation often come across as more authentic. This can lead to higher levels of trust and engagement.
• Diverse Content Formats: Influencers can create a variety of content types. This includes blogs, videos, social media posts, and more. 
• Content Co-creation: Some influencer partnerships involve influencers co-creating content. This collaborative approach infuses fresh ideas and creativity into your content. 
• Increased Engagement: When an influencer shares or promotes your content, it can lead to more engagement. This includes likes, comments, shares, and click-throughs.
• Social Proof: Influencers’ endorsements and content sharing provide social proof. This indicates to their followers that your brand or product is worth considering. 

5. Strategic SEO

Strategic SEO is one of the leading content marketing trends for a reason. It serves as the foundation for content discoverability and audience engagement. With the vast amount of content available online, a well-executed SEO strategy ensures that your content ranks high in search engine results. This helps drive organic traffic and increase visibility. 

As search algorithms evolve and user behavior changes, strategic SEO is essential to adapt and thrive. Additionally, you can leverage data-driven insights to tailor your content to match user intent. This leads to better user experiences and improved content marketing return on investment. 

Here’s why strategic SEO is an indispensable element of modern content marketing trends:

• Content Optimization: You can integrate chosen keywords naturally into your content.  That includes titles, headings, body text, and metadata. Also, structure and organize your content for easy readability and navigation.
• High-quality Content: Strategic SEO is not just about keywords it’s also about the quality of your content. Create informative and engaging content that addresses your audience’s needs and interests. High-quality content also attracts more backlinks and social shares.
• User Experience (UX): Google considers user experience as a ranking factor. When your content loads quickly and is mobile-friendly, you provide an excellent UX. This includes having a clear and intuitive website structure.
• External Linking: Authoritative external links to reputable sources demonstrate your commitment to providing accurate information. Plus, it enhances your content’s credibility.
• Schema Markup: Schema markup provides search engines with structured data about your content. This can result in enhanced search engine results, such as rich snippets and featured snippets.
• Local SEO: If your business serves a local audience, you can reach them by optimizing your content for local search. This includes using location-specific keywords and creating a Google My Business profile.
• Mobile SEO: Mobile-friendly content is great for reaching mobile users. Ensure that your content loads quickly on smartphones and tablets for results.

6. Thought Leadership

Thought leadership positions brands and individuals as authoritative voices within their industries. This is valuable in an era when consumers look for expertise and trust. 

Thought leadership content offers valuable insights, industry knowledge, and innovative perspectives. This content establishes credibility and fosters deeper connections with audiences. As a result, it helps drive engagement and loyalty. 

Additionally, thought leadership is highly shareable and often garners media attention. This allows you to differentiate yourself from the competition and attract a dedicated following. 

Here’s what makes thought leadership one of the most important content marketing trends:

• In-depth Content: Thought leaders produce high-quality and in-depth content. This content is often more extensive and thoroughly researched than typical blogs or articles.
• Original Research: Thought leadership often includes original research studies or surveys within your industry. This can provide unique insights not found in other types of content.
• Guest Blogging: Thought leaders can contribute guest posts to reputable publications or websites. This is a great way to reach a broader audience and establish authority beyond your own platform.
• Content Series: Thought leaders can deep dive into subjects through content series or thematic campaigns.
• Curated Content: Thought leaders can curate and share relevant industry news. This is a great way to add perspective and commentary and provide additional value.
• Data-driven Insights: Thought leaders often support their insights with data and statistics. This adds more credibility to their content.
• Continuous Learning: Thought leaders often stay updated on industry trends and new developments.

Pro Tip: When creating thought leadership content, it’s important to add a unique perspective. Use data and evidence to support your claims and establish credibility. Share your expertise through storytelling, case studies, or actionable advice that adds value to your audience.

7. Podcasts on the Rise

Podcasts have the ability to connect with audiences on a personal level. They offer a convenient, on-the-go format, allowing you to reach consumers during various daily activities. 

Podcasts also provide a platform for authentic storytelling and in-depth discussions. This enables you to establish authority and trust in your niche. Furthermore, they offer excellent opportunities for collaboration with influencers and experts. Plus, you can easily produce and distribute podcasts.

What else makes podcasts one of the top content marketing trends? You can use them for: 

• Expert Interviews: Podcasts often feature industry experts, influencers, or thought leaders as guests. These interviews provide valuable insights. They also build credibility by associating you with knowledgeable voices in your field.
• Thought Leadership: Hosting or appearing on a podcast positions you as a thought leader in your industry. Regularly discussing trends, challenges, and innovations showcases expertise and authority.
• Educational Content: Podcasts offer an opportunity to educate your audience. You can create or appear in episodes that provide in-depth explanations and practical advice.
• Storytelling: Podcasts are an excellent medium for storytelling. You can share compelling narratives about your brand. You can also share customer success stories or case studies.
• Product or Service Promotion: Podcasts can subtly promote your products or services. You can integrate them into the content naturally through sponsorships, endorsements, or relevant discussions.
• Audience Interaction: You can encourage audience interactions by soliciting questions, comments, or feedback. Addressing listener inquiries in your podcast can enhance engagement. Plus, it can foster a sense of community.
• Product Reviews: Podcasts are great for reviewing products and services in a conversational way. 

Want to appear on a podcast but don’t know how to create a pitch? We’ve got you covered! Check it out: How to Pitch a Podcast in 2024 [+ Real Examples]

What Does the Future Hold for Content Marketing Trends in 2024?

Want to know what’s in store for 2024? While it may be a ways off, these are the projected future content marketing trends to watch.

Consumers May Value Social Responsibility

Consumers strive for transparency and accountability. Content that showcases your commitment to social responsibility enhances your reputation. 

Social responsibility aligns brands with ethical and societal values. It demonstrates a commitment beyond profit-making. When content reflects sustainability, diversity, and ethical business practices, it resonates with socially conscious consumers. 

Moreover, socially responsible content can foster trust, loyalty, and positive brand associations.  This can help drive customer engagement and long-term relationships.

Visual Content Will Become More Prevalent

Another of the top content marketing trends that you can get a head start on now is making your content more visual. Visual content has gained popularity and will continue to be crucial for content marketing.

Content visuals include images, videos, memes, and infographics. They have the ability to capture and retain audience attention in short amounts of time. 

Videos can convey complex information quickly. Memes inject humor and relatability, making them more shareable and memorable. Infographics distill data and insights into digestible visuals, enhancing comprehension. 

As attention spans shrink, visual content caters to consumers’ preferences for easily consumable information. Social media platforms prioritize visual content, making it effective for expanding reach and engagement. 

The combination of storytelling, aesthetics, and shareability allows you to convey your messages effectively. Plus, it helps you resonate with audiences and stay competitive.

Adaptability Will Become Crucial for Content Marketing

Adaptability is one of the most crucial content marketing trends because it enables you to thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape. It involves the ability to adjust strategies, messaging, and formats in response to evolving consumer behavior. Plus, you can adapt to new technologies and market trends. 

This ensures that your content remains relevant and resonates with your target audience. This flexibility allows you to seize new opportunities, overcome challenges, and maintain a competitive edge. Adaptability leads to better engagement, brand loyalty, and the achievement of marketing goals.

Data and Analytics Will Continue to Shape Content

Data and analytics will continue to play an important role in shaping content.

They provide the insights necessary to create more effective and relevant materials. That in turn makes your content more adaptable, allowing you to hit two content marketing trends with one stone.  

With the increasing volume of content available online, data-driven decision-making ensures that content strategies remain aligned with audience preferences, interests, and behavior. 

It’s used to analyze engagement rates, click-through rates, and audience demographics.  This can help you refine content creation and distribution strategies, optimizing for what works best. 

Also, as AI and machine learning technologies advance, data-driven insights will become even more sophisticated. This will allow for more personalized and predictive content. Plus, it will enhance user experiences and drive better results in content marketing efforts.

Gaining insights from analytics isn’t just one of the leading content marketing trends, it’s a leading PR trend. Get a head start here: 7 Step Guide to PR Analytics: Unveiling Insights for Strategy Enhancement

Key Takeaways on the Leading Content Marketing Trends

Content marketing is constantly evolving. Every year, new platforms, technologies, and consumer preferences emerge. Staying up-to-date with the latest content marketing trends is crucial for maintaining relevance. Plus, it can help you improve the effectiveness of your content marketing strategy.

While it’s essential to keep up with content marketing trends, it’s equally important to prioritize the quality of your content. That means creating authoritative, quality-based, and thought-provoking content that resonates with your target audience. 

Plus, understanding what works and what doesn’t allows you to refine your approach. It can also help you allocate your content resources more effectively. This can be accomplished through data-driven insights.

Combine all of these things together and you’re sure to have a winning content marketing strategy for 2024 and beyond!

Don’t have time to figure out how to adopt these content marketing trends for your strategy? Let us help! Simply book a free consultation with us to get expert insight into how to spruce up your content today.