WRITTEN BY LOUISE SANSOM
The world is constantly changing. People’s preferences shift, new technologies and cultural influences emerge, and society evolves – along with the trends that are shaped by it. To stay ahead of the competition, it helps to keep up with, and ahead of, these trends.
Here are our top tips on how:
Read industry publications. A great way to stay up-to-date on the latest news and trends in your specific area. There are a wide range of publications, both online and in print, reporting what’s hot and what’s not via the latest market developments and consumer insights. Make note of a few key websites, blogs and newsletters and then set aside some regular time – try one coffee morning a week – dedicated to going through them.
Get social media-savvy. Make your lunch time scrolling work for you by leveraging social media; another great way to stay up-to-date on trends. Follow relevant industry experts, thought leaders and popular accounts – they’ve got their finger on the pulse. You can also use social media analytics tools to track mentions of your brand and your competitors, as well as hashtags, and discussions related to your industry to gain insights into what topics are gaining traction. #WorkIt
Attend industry events. Step away from your desk and out into the world at things like workshops, panels and talks. Not only are industry events a great way to boost your network and build connections, they also provide a chance to hear directly from the experts. A fast-track to the real insider knowledge.
Conduct market research. The best way to understand your target audience and what trends they’re following is to ask them directly. Conduct surveys, focus groups, or interviews to get the inside track, and make use of online survey tools and data analysis platforms to help you dissect the information. Use the date to identify emerging trends and then adapt your product, strategy or services accordingly.
Keep an eye on the competition. Stay one step ahead by prowling your competitors. Keeping tabs on their social media posts, product launches, and campaigns will give you an insight into what trends they’re buying into, while revealing the areas where you have the chance to strike by doing something different. Be creative and experiment with new ideas. The most successful brands are the ones that are willing to take risks and try new things. Being original is the best way to make sure you’re leading the trends, not following.
As the saying goes, “the only constant in the world is change.” So stay informed to stay ahead, embrace a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation, and don’t be afraid to break the mould and be original.
By following these tips, you can stay on top of trends and ensure that your business remains relevant in a constantly evolving marketplace.
Want to set the trends, rather than follow them? We’ve got a knack for that. Get in touch.