The New Year is right around the corner. And along with resolutions come new trends: fashion, beauty, electronics, and yes, marketing. What will be popular in 2020? What will consumers be looking for? We asked the ANDERSON team for their predictions. Here goes…

Prediction #1 : Chatbots

The rise of chatbots! A chatbot is a piece of software that conducts a conversation via audio or text. They are primarily used in dialog systems for customer service inquiries or information acquisition. Chatbots take away the frustration of talking to a robot on the phone, and can help with most questions or concerns. If there is something they cannot help you with, they direct you to a real agent who can help.

Prediction #2: VR & AR

Virtual and Augmented Reality. Virtual Reality (VR) is an artificial, computer-generated simulation or recreation of an environment or situation. New products such as VR headsets and games immerse the user by making them feel like they are experiencing it first hand. Augmented Reality (AR) layers computer generated creations on top of an existing photo, video, or reality. It gives the audience a chance to react with it. Snapchat began using AR technology with bitmojis, allowing consumers to see their characters dancing, being scared by IT, working out, etc. Companies such as IKEA do a great job of utilizing AR and it will only continue to grow in popularity.

Prediction #3: Personalization

Gen Z loves personalized ads and they will become more key than ever. We have already seen this become a huge factor in streaming services. Netflix, Hulu, and even Disney + are driven by their recommendation systems (based on your watch history). This means you are very likely to watch whatever they suggest to you after login. Other industries have jumped on board, too. You can now create personalized skin care items, vitamin packs and other things based on your preferences. It’s going to level up, quick! pic

Prediction #4: Visual Storytelling

Video has been rising, there is no doubt about it—and it will continue to do so. But we predict storytelling in video will increase significantly to capitalize on consumer emotions. Younger generations make purchasing decisions based on how it makes them feel. Does the brand make a difference in the world? Or does it hurt the environment? Those things matter. Brands will play to emotions in order to capitalize on this. We also predict that vertical video will continue to grow substantially as more apps hit the marketplace, and more vertical video ad and content opportunities arise.

Prediction #5: Interactive Online Shopping

So, you’re shopping online for new sunglasses before your trip to Cabo because you don’t have time to go to the store. You find a pair you like but you’re not sure how they’ll fit. Low and behold, there’s a little tab saying “TRY ON!” Just take a picture of your face, and boom, the glasses are on your head electronically. Now all you have to worry about is choosing between the movie star shades or 50’s cat eyes. This technology is brand new, but will only continue to grow. Eventually it won’t be just glasses, we predict it will soon be available for much more.Time will tell.

Will any of this actually happen? We’ll see. But the trends right now are pointing in these directions. And marketing experts are already starting to adapt to the new way of doing things. It’s time to get on board!