Interactive and relatable content has always been one of the ‘musts’ for a successful Social Media Campaign. With 360 images and videos, brands now get the chance to elevate their campaigns further. According to Ocean Quigley, the Creative Director of Facebook, 360 videos and immersive media are part of the Social Network’s natural progression. This update would also lay the foundation for creating 3D environments compatible with VR and AR.
But what does this exactly mean for businesses? The following are some of the reasons many brands are utilizing 360 images and videos in their marketing campaigns.
Showcase Your Brand
A picture does speak a thousand words, but it’s still not the whole story. Recently, there’s been a trend in consumer behavior where they are very particular about the products they buy and the store they get them from. Most consumers are conscious of whether a specific product is ethically sourced, vegan, locally produced etc. 360 images and videos can be a way to showcase what goes on behind the scenes or what happens in the store. Doing this gives the audience an immersive experience.
Interact With Your Audience
Let’s be honest; moving around the different views of an image or video is quite fun. More than that, it’s a simple way of talking to your audience and saying, “hey, this is how we do it”, or “this is what happens in the store at a certain time “. Opening this type of conversation in the consumer’s head can help build a stronger and deeper connection with them.
Keep It Interesting
At a glance, this kind of content seems limited to a certain type of industry. However, giving a glimpse of what goes on beyond the usual curated image of a brand and personifying it is generally a great strategy. It helps the consumers relate and connect with the brand better.
Facilitate Virtual Tours
Real estate agents, hoteliers, and event organizers can greatly benefit from 360° content. Virtual tours provide potential clients with a realistic feel of properties, accommodations, or venues, eliminating the need for physical visits and expanding reach to a global audience.
Enhanced Storytelling
Every brand has a story, and 360° videos offer a captivating way to tell it. These videos allow for dynamic narratives, where viewers can focus on different aspects of the story by merely changing their perspective, making each viewing experience unique.
Stand Out in Social Media
In the crowded realm of social media, standing out is crucial. Posts featuring 360° content are novel and eye-catching, ensuring they receive more attention than standard posts. Many social media platforms, such as Facebook, now support 360° content, making it easier for brands to incorporate it into their strategies.
Promote Events
Promoting events, be it exhibitions, concerts, or corporate functions, becomes significantly more engaging with 360° images. Potential attendees can get a feel of the venue, layout, and atmosphere beforehand, making them more likely to commit to attending.
Cost-Efficient
While there’s an initial investment in procuring the right equipment or services, in the long run, 360° images can be cost-effective. The rich content can reduce the need for multiple traditional photos or videos. Plus, the potential boost in engagement, conversions, and reduced product returns can lead to an impressive return on investment.
Boost SEO Rankings
Given that 360° content tends to increase user engagement and dwell time on websites, it can indirectly influence search engine rankings. Search engines often interpret longer visit durations as a sign of valuable content, potentially giving your site a boost in rankings.
Increase Trust and Transparency
By offering viewers a 360° look into your business – whether it’s a behind-the-scenes video of your production process or a comprehensive view of a product – you’re showing complete transparency. This openness can significantly enhance trust, a crucial factor in the decision-making process of today’s discerning consumers.
In today’s fast-paced digital world, where capturing and retaining attention is paramount, 360° content offers a resounding solution. As the lines between reality and the digital realm blur, these immersive visuals serve as a bridge, offering experiences that are as close to reality as possible. By embracing this technology, marketers can ensure their brands remain relevant, memorable, and ahead of the curve.
Is this something you see your brand pursuing? Then we’d love to help! Don’t hesitate to Contact Us or Schedule A Call with us. We’d love to connect you with our Marketing experts.