Impactful Brands Keep It Real + Industry News and Insights
Field Tips is a biweekly email series bringing you the latest marketing trends and topics directly to your inbox. Covering everything from digital marketing and social media to content strategy and more, we curate the industry’s top stories and present them as easily digestible insights. The content contained within this post comes directly from our November 15, 2024 issue. If you’d like to receive Field Tips, subscribe here.
These days, authenticity is more than a buzzword—it’s essential. Consumers increasingly seek brands that align with their values, and they’re quick to recognize when those values are real (or not). Sharing your brand values transparently builds trust, fosters loyalty and sets you apart.
So, how do you foster connections that go beyond transactions and build long-term loyalty? Start with these quick tips:
- Tell Your Story: Share the “why” behind your brand. Real stories that show your mission in action make a stronger connection.
- Highlight Real Voices: Feature testimonials, team stories, and user content that reflect your values. Authentic voices build trust.
- Align Words and Actions: Ensure your messaging aligns with what you do as a business. Consistency shows your values are more than just words.
- Be Transparent, Even When It’s Tough: Being open about challenges and showing commitment to improvement speaks volumes.
If you’re looking to refine how your brand communicates its values, we’re here to help. Just reply to this email or reach out to your team at Responsory to get building a better brand.
Let’s keep it real and make a real impact on your bottom line.
Get Ready—Ads are Coming to Threads
WHAT’S HAPPENING. Meta is set to bring ads to Threads early next year, turning its Twitter-like platform into the newest digital ad space. Since launching in 2023, Threads has grown a substantial user base by offering a simple, ad-free experience, but that’s about to change as Meta looks to monetize it. Expect ads to appear in users’ feeds in a way that blends with the platform’s casual, conversational vibe.
WHY IT MATTERS. This could be a golden opportunity for marketers. Early ads on Threads mean less competition and potentially lower costs – not to mention the chance to shape the ad landscape on a fresh platform. With its focus on engagement and community, Threads might reward brands that can connect in a fun, authentic way, making it ideal for testing creative, audience-centered approaches.
Spotify Takes on YouTube with Big Move into Video Podcasts
WHAT’S HAPPENING. Spotify is rolling out major updates to support video content, aiming to compete directly with YouTube. Starting in January, video podcast creators can earn revenue based on user engagement, and Spotify Premium users will enjoy ad-free videos. Spotify’s new “Spotify for Creators” tools will also provide creators with insights and options to share shorter clips, making the platform more appealing for video podcasting.
WHY IT MATTERS. For marketers and creators, Spotify’s entry into video expands potential reach and revenue options on a platform primarily known for audio. This move creates fresh opportunities to engage audiences through visually-driven content, particularly for brands targeting the younger, podcast-friendly demographic that Spotify attracts.
Google Keeps Cookies but Reinvents Privacy with Sandbox Updates
WHAT’S HAPPENING. Google’s Privacy Sandbox, aimed at balancing user privacy with the needs of advertisers, has undergone significant updates. Originally intended to replace third-party cookies, the initiative has now pivoted to give users more control over cookies, effectively keeping them active on Chrome. Privacy Sandbox also introduces “Topics” and similar alternatives to reduce direct user tracking, while further updates are planned for Android.
WHY IT MATTERS. This pivot leaves many advertisers, who had already invested in cookieless strategies, re-evaluating their approach. Marketers now face a hybrid landscape with cookies on Chrome but restrictions on other browsers and platforms. The evolving Privacy Sandbox could be an advantage for brands that adapt early, offering more privacy-focused ways to reach audiences through Google’s new tools.
More To Explore
WordPress 6.7 Released – This Is Why It’s A Winner
WordPress version 6.7 introduces streamlined design features, enhanced accessibility and performance boosts—making it easier than ever to create and manage content. Discover all the new tools on Search Engine Journal.
Canonicalization and SEO: A Guide for 2025
Find out how canonical tags can help avoid duplicate content issues, keep your URLs clean and optimize your site’s visibility on search engines. Get the full breakdown on Search Engine Land.
Google November Core Update: 6 Insights From Millions of Queries
Wondering how Google’s latest core update impacts search rankings? Dive into six important trends from millions of queries—like shifts in content relevance and site authority—to keep your SEO strategy competitive. Learn more on Search Engine Journal.
About the Author
A prominent marketing strategist and nationally recognized thought leader, Grant A. Johnson is president and CEO of Responsory. He is a sought-after public speaker, direct marketing trainer, copywriter, award-winning author and the creator of Direct Branding℠, Responsory’s method for producing sure-fire measurable results.
