If you don’t have an online presence, 2011 was the year for you to make the move online! If you still don’t  have an online presence, things let’s get focused for 2012 and review the list below to see how you can maximize your impact with online marketing.

1. Social media marketing goes mainstream. Corporate use of social media has reached a tipping point and will continue to grow inside organizations, especially in customer service. Social ad spending has grown from $2.52 billion in 2009 to $4.26 billion projected in 2011.
2. Gone mobile. The evolution and adoption smartphones has taken the market to a very mobile environment.  Over 30% of cell phones are smartphones and that category is growing.  While email remains the dominate use of smartphones, the explosion of mobile apps creates a tremendous opportunity for mobile marketing.  The ability to search on the go is providing a huge marketing opportunity for those willing to participate.
3. Online retail is gaining traction. Online retailers continue to take market share from the traditional brick-and-mortar retail stores. While still a small percentage of total retail revenue, it is projected to grow from $166 billion to $235 billion in 2013. Social media will continue to expand its influence due to its ability to target and appeal to consumers early, often and in a cost effective manner throughout the decision making phase.
4. Intergration is a reality. Social media marketing is no longer a nice afterthought or “toy” to play with. The new paradigm is a total marketing plan that incorporates social media, mobile, email and traditional methods (TV, print, radio, etc…). All of these methods will mesh together to present a new comprehensive marketing environment.
5. Measuring the results. As the dollars invested in social media marketing increase, tracking, measuring and analyzing results will be required.  Better social media metrics will be developed to justify the financial investment based on ROI,

As you begin your marketing initiatives for 2012, keep these trends in mind and incorporate online, social media and mobile device marketing campaigns in your plan.