We've all heard the buzz about Generative AI – it's like the digital genie granting your marketing wishes (minus the smoke and flying carpet). I'm feeling, however, that we've already given that topic enough screen time.

Everybody is talking about it.

I wanted to take some time to explore other digital trends swirling around the digital realm in 2023. Brace yourselves, fellow digital explorers, as we unveil the top 10 digital marketing trends that are turning heads and capturing clicks.

1. Privacy and Cookies: Google's Cookie Crusade

Google is on a mission, my digital comrades. They're out to conquer the infamous third-party cookies lurking in the dark corners of the internet. Say goodbye to those sneaky little trackers, and hello to a brave new world of onsite ads that respect your online privacy. It's like a secret agent operation to make your browsing experience safer and more personalized. Don't fret, though – replacement algorithms are gearing up for duty, ensuring your ads reach the right eyes without invading your digital space.

2. Voice SEO: The Talk of the Town

Digital assistants are like the BFFs of the internet realm. They're here to help, and they're making voice search cooler than a cucumber in a snowstorm. Whether you're summoning Siri, chatting with Alexa, or engaging with Google's assistant, voice-based searches are all the rage. Time to brush up on your conversational SEO skills, folks. Instead of typing queries like an old-school keyboard warrior, think about the natural, chatty phrases your virtual pals would use. It's like giving your website a crash course in being the life of the voice search party.

3. In-Feed Shopping: Shop 'Til You Drop (a Like)

Imagine scrolling through your social feed, stumbling upon a post that's so enticing you can practically feel your wallet itching to make a purchase. Welcome to the era of in-feed shopping, where your favorite social platforms double as digital marketplaces. Facebook, Instagram, Google – they're all onboard. It's like window shopping but without sore feet.

Click, buy, conquer – all without leaving your sofa.

4. Push Notifications: Your Silent Sales Whisperer

Picture this: your phone lights up with a message. It's not your BFF sharing the latest gossip; it's your favorite brand offering you an exclusive deal. Push notifications are your digital butlers, reminding you of appointments, sending receipts, and whispering sweet sale secrets. With billions of mobile users floating around, this pocket-sized tool is a direct line to your audience's heart (or, well, their screens).

5. SMS Marketing: Send 'Em a Love Note (Digitally)

Texting isn't just for sending emojis and cat memes anymore. It's a powerful marketing tool, and your customers are all ears (or, um, thumbs). With SMS marketing, you can slide into your audience's messages with personalized promotions, coupons, and even heartfelt messages. Just remember, brevity is key – no one likes a text novel.

6. Video Marketing: Lights, Camera, Click!

Move over Hollywood, because businesses are taking center stage in the digital spotlight. People are gobbling up videos like popcorn at a movie premiere, so why not serve up some cinematic content of your own? Whip out your metaphorical director's chair and create engaging video ads that capture attention and convert like nobody's business.

7. Email Marketing/Segmentation: Treat Emails Like VIP Passes

You know what they say – a cluttered inbox is a sad inbox. Don't be that brand. Instead, sprinkle some marketing magic by segmenting your email list and sending personalized messages that feel like they were tailor-made. It's like throwing an exclusive party and making sure everyone gets the VIP treatment.

8. Interactive Content: Engagement on Steroids

Social media isn't just about scrolling mindlessly. It's about having real conversations, and interactive content is your golden ticket to a two-way dialogue. Host live events, Q&A sessions, and “ask me anything” extravaganzas. It's like throwing a virtual party and inviting your followers to dance with you in real time.

9. Conversational Marketing: Chatbots, the New Digital BFFs

Ever wished you had a 24/7 customer service rep who never needed a coffee break? Say hello to chatbots – your round-the-clock digital buddies who are always ready to assist, answer questions, and provide that warm fuzzy feeling of instant support. They're like having a personal assistant without the coffee runs.

10. Influencer Marketing: Your Brand's Wingman

Move over, movie stars – influencers are the new celebrities in town. They're the cool kids on the digital block, and partnering with them is like having your brand strut down the red carpet. Whether you're teaming up with a mega-influencer or cozying up to a micro-influencer, this trend is all about making your brand shine in the spotlight.

So, there you have it! My top 10 trends of 2023 so far. Generative AI might have grabbed the headlines, but these trends are the supporting cast that's stealing the show. Whether sliding into customers' messages or making videos that stop thumbs mid-scroll, the digital world is yours to embrace and conquer.

Happy digital trend-setting!