Throughout the centuries people have tried to predict the future using all sorts of methods. Although we don’t profess to being able to see the future, we have done some research ourselves on the top business and technological trends that we are likely to see in 2018, and how these may impact us at BNI.
Here are three…
- Remote work and communications
Beyond cloud storage and project management tools, technology is providing more and more ways to help us work together even while we’re apart. It may be time to evaluate options for video conferencing and other telework tools. You may need to think about adding additional business support in 2018 both technological and in terms of human resources.
Look to BNI for this support and consider using the services of some of our highly qualified members.
- Mobile access and ease
Customers aren’t just browsing on mobile devices — they’re purchasing, too. Mobile shopping was particularly popular this holiday season and is expected to continue to creep on desktop transactions in the coming months. Google offers a search tool that tests whether your website is mobile-friendly and makes recommendations for improving it.
Don’t forget to check your email marketing and social media presence as well, to make sure your messaging is easy to read and engages customers with enticing, clear visuals. The future is mobile so make sure you are ready to catch this wave.
- Personalised customer service
More people are shopping online, but they still appreciate good customer service. Modern customer service doesn’t always come in the form of a warm greeting or an easy returns process. Sometimes, it takes the form of personalisation.
Studies have shown that Generation Z (people born between 1996 and 2010) love connecting with brands on a personal level via social/email content. These young adults have an enormous amount of buying power and often serve as unofficial ambassadors for brands to which they feel connected.
To make sure you’re reaching your target markets with a personalised approach, pay close attention to social media analytics along with one-on-one feedback from customers. Segmenting your emails by customer type is just one way you can form a more personal connection with your clientele. Social media will continue to play a huge role in 2018.
Remember that BNI can enhance your social media strategy. Just as you build your relationships online, you need to back these up with face-to-face connections.
The two sides of life – online and physical – are now completely interconnected. BNI recognises this and brings these two styles of networking together. You’ll see even more of this in 2018!
BNI Connect is undergoing an update next week which will allow us to search for any BNI Member, regardless of their chapter, region or country and contact. You will now be able to call, email, view any BNI Member directly through the app or share their details to your contacts.
This functionality, which will be available during the week of December 25th after app store approval, is truly game-changing for the organisation as we work towards greater collaboration and connectivity worldwide!
