While stay-at-home orders and social distancing measures have been relaxed, it is widely expected that they will have a long-term impact on shopping habits and leisure activities. One of the most notable outcomes of the pandemic has been its impact on online shopping: according to a recent IBM report, the public health crisis has accelerated the shift to e-commerce by about five years. In the United States alone, 62% of consumers now shop online more than they did pre-COVID, and the figure on a global scale is 49%. Another major development is the massive increase in home media consumption, with preference given to TV and streaming services. Daniel Yomtobian comments, “Even before the pandemic, online advertising was steadily growing its share of total ad spend, but it is now clear that digital should be a priority for brands in this new world. However, they still need to ensure that their ads appear on trusted platforms, carry a relevant message, encourage responsible behavior, and promote empathy.”
With careful planning and strategic adjustment, it is possible to capitalize on the current environment to raise brand awareness, according to Daniel Yomtobian. Companies now have massive audiences they can reach across various channels as people continue to social-distance and remote working becomes widespread. To capture this opportunity, brands need to prioritize messages that emphasize safety and convenience, which are the primary concerns of consumers at present. It is also an extremely opportune time to utilize advertising technology that facilitates interaction with ads and makes it easier for audiences to engage with brands. Companies that address today’s issues tactfully and empathetically, reach out through the right channels, offer convenience, and provide relevant solutions will earn the trust of consumers and reap long-term benefits from their current efforts.
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