19 Resources to Stay Updated On Earned Media Trends

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    19 Resources to Stay Updated On Earned Media Trends

    Discover the latest strategies for mastering earned media trends, compiled from the wisdom of industry trailblazers. This article unveils a curated list of 19 essential resources for anyone looking to stay ahead in the dynamic field of digital communication. Gain actionable insights and elevate your approach by tapping into the expertise shared by seasoned professionals.

    • Engage with Industry Communities
    • Test New Content Ideas
    • Leverage Data-Driven Insights
    • Subscribe to Industry-Leading Blogs
    • Engage with Thought Leaders
    • Monitor Industry Developments
    • Review Industry Reports
    • Analyze Competitor Backlinks
    • Engage with Diverse Publications
    • Analyze Digital Landscape
    • Leverage AI Tools
    • Monitor Customer Behavior
    • Engage with Local Communities
    • Read Industry Blogs Weekly
    • Engage with Community Partnerships
    • Engage with Industry Publications
    • Dive into Digital Marketing Publications
    • Engage with SEO Innovations
    • Blend Industry Resources

    Engage with Industry Communities

    Staying current with trends in earned media requires consistent learning and engaging with industry communities. I rely on a mix of resources, including PR-focused newsletters like PRWeek and industry webinars that cover recent case studies or shifts in media relations. These resources offer practical insights into what's working and what's changing.

    Another strategy that's been helpful is networking with peers and professionals in related fields. I participate in virtual panels or local marketing meetups, where discussions often highlight trends I might not have come across on my own. For example, I once learned about the rising importance of short-form video pitches to journalists, which we applied in a campaign to promote a new financing program. It helped us secure coverage in key trade publications.

    Tracking the performance of our own earned media efforts is equally important. Analyzing which types of pitches and outlets drive the best engagement provides a clear sense of what's effective, keeping our strategies fresh and relevant.

    Test New Content Ideas

    Staying updated is all about being hands-on. I'm constantly testing new content ideas, keeping an eye on what works, and learning from it. I follow industry blogs, read up on case studies, and check out social media platforms to see what others are doing. It's a simple, practical approach, but it keeps me sharp. I also subscribe to email newsletters from places like HubSpot and Content Marketing Institute. They send quick, actionable tips that make it easier to stay ahead of trends. It's not only about reading - it's also about doing. I pay attention to my results. If something's not working, I change it. If something's getting traction, I double down. I trust data over theory. Staying on top of earned media means staying flexible and testing ideas in real time. Keep it simple and stay consistent.

    Natalia Lavrenenko
    Natalia LavrenenkoUGC manager/Marketing manager, Rathly

    Leverage Data-Driven Insights

    In my role at Aprimo and years in the DAM industry, staying current with earned media trends boils down to leveraging data-driven insights and real-world applications. I focus on integrating advanced AI into content management, as evidenced in my work with Tesla and CBS, to analyze audience engagement with assets. This assists in pinpointing exactly what types of content gain organic traction.

    Collaboration with top creative brands like Martha Stewart or the Portland Museum of Art taught me the importance of repurposing content in diverse media, which in turn boosts our earned media presence. It’s about crafting a modular content strategy that keeps audiences engaged across multiple platforms.

    Industry research is vital. I dive into reports and insights like the Content Marketing Institute’s surveys to guide our approach. It’s essential to tailor campaigns based on robust data analysis, using ROI and ROE metrics to continually refine strategies. This ensures I’m not just following trends but effectively shaping them.

    Maxwell Mabe
    Maxwell MabeVice President Product Marketing, Aprimo

    Subscribe to Industry-Leading Blogs

    One of the key strategies I use is subscribing to industry-leading blogs, newsletters, and online publications that focus on media relations, public relations, and digital marketing. Resources such as PR Week, MediaBistro, and AdAge are invaluable for keeping tabs on what's happening in the media landscape.

    I also follow industry experts on Twitter and LinkedIn for real-time updates and insights. These platforms often provide first-hand reports on trends, emerging tools, and case studies, which I find extremely helpful.

    Additionally, I regularly attend webinars, conferences, and workshops that focus on media strategies. These events allow me to hear directly from thought leaders, participate in discussions, and network with peers, which often leads to discovering new techniques and technologies. Podcasts like "The Spin Sucks" and "PRovoke Media" are also a go-to for deep dives into topics related to earned media and digital PR.

    I also invest time in using tools like Google Alerts, which helps me monitor news coverage and trends in specific niches. By setting up alerts for key terms, competitor brands, and industry news, I can stay informed about what's being said and how the media landscape is evolving.

    Moreover, analyzing our past earned media campaigns helps me refine our strategy. Reviewing the impact of our previous media placements, press releases, and influencer outreach efforts gives me insight into what works best for our goals and allows me to continuously improve our approach.

    Through these combined efforts, I ensure that our earned media strategy remains relevant, responsive, and impactful, while constantly adapting to the changing media environment.

    Georgi Petrov
    Georgi PetrovCMO, Entrepreneur, and Content Creator, AIG MARKETER

    Engage with Thought Leaders

    My strategy involves a mix of engaging with industry thought leaders, monitoring real-time updates, and participating in professional networks. Platforms like PRWeek are staples for understanding shifts in public relations strategies, media trends, and case studies from brands leading the way. Podcasts have also been a great resource. Shows like The Spin Sucks Podcast provide actionable insights and discussions on what's working in earned media today. Beyond that, attending conferences like Content Marketing World keeps me connected with industry peers while exposing me to innovative ideas in storytelling and audience engagement.

    Monitor Industry Developments

    Staying up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in earned media requires a proactive and multifaceted approach. My strategy revolves around consistent monitoring of industry developments, engaging with thought leaders, and applying insights from real-world case studies.

    One key aspect is actively following industry publications and platforms that focus on PR, media relations, and digital marketing. Resources like PRWeek, AdAge, Digiday, and The Holmes Report provide valuable insights into emerging trends, successful campaigns, and evolving audience behaviors. I also rely on Google Alerts to track updates on specific topics, competitors, or brands, ensuring I don't miss critical news that could influence my earned media strategies.

    Social media platforms, particularly LinkedIn and Twitter, are invaluable for engaging with industry leaders and staying informed about new tools and techniques. Following thought leaders in PR and marketing allows me to gain perspectives from those shaping the field and provides access to discussions about challenges and innovations.

    Conferences, webinars, and networking events are also a vital part of my strategy. Events like PRovoke Global or Content Marketing World not only highlight cutting-edge practices but also offer opportunities to learn directly from experts who share real-world experiences. Participating in these events fosters connections with professionals who bring diverse insights, further broadening my understanding of the earned media landscape.

    Finally, hands-on experimentation and analysis are critical. By testing new tactics, tools, and messaging strategies within my campaigns, I gather firsthand data on what works and what doesn’t. Combining this practical experience with curated insights from trusted resources ensures that my approach to earned media remains both innovative and grounded in proven practices.

    Review Industry Reports

    In earned media, I follow the mentioned strategy for staying up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices.

    Industry Reports and Studies

    Reviewing the exclusive reports from reputed earned media firms provides deep insights into emerging trends. Case studies also help in understanding the market behavior.

    Expert Opinions

    Following articles and insights from experts and leaders would help optimize media spending in diverse industrial landscapes.

    Tracking Content Consumption

    Monitoring the content consumption pattern helps analyze what types of stories will drive full momentum for different audiences. The growing demand for safety-related content can be a game-changer in the future.

    Media Formats

    Finding new and unconventional outlets for newsletters, podcasts, and videos is crucial. The platforms which can drive more engagement need to be prioritized.

    Social Media Monitoring

    Utilizing social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter to get real-time updates and out-of-the-box practices.

    Fahad Khan
    Fahad KhanDigital Marketing Manager, Ubuy Nigeria

    Analyze Competitor Backlinks

    One of my core strategies for staying on top of earned media trends is leveraging comprehensive competitor backlink analysis. At The Guerrilla Agency, for instance, I found a lesser-known industry blog that was frequently linked to by top competitors. By collaborating with this blog, we secured valuable backlinks and boosted our organic traffic by 30% in six months.

    I also integrate custom coding for web functionality tailored to our unique needs at Twincity.com. This approach helps us adapt swiftly to digital shifts, like enhancing user experience with interactive product demos, which increased customer engagement by 40%. Being hands-on with these tools ensures we continually refine our strategies as trends evolve.

    Additionally, I use structured data to improve voice search visibility. Implementing FAQ schema on product pages has proven effective, notably improving response rates to common voice queries like "how to" searches. This directly increases our relevance in a growing area of search technology, ensuring we stay competitive in the digital landscape. To stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in earned media, I immerse myself in competitor backlink analysis and digital PR forums. Analyzing competitor backlinks has proven insightful; for instance, a breakthrough in targeting niche industry blogs led to a 30% organic traffic increase as we secured high-authority links.

    Another strategy is leveraging A/B testing insights, like the unexpected success of a green call-to-action button, which increased click-through rates by 21%. These tests highlight how sometimes unconventional changes can yield surprising results, reminding us to continuously question and adapt our strategies.

    Finally, integrating AI tools like chatbots in customer service has been invaluable, reducing response times by 60% while increasing customer satisfaction scores by 15%. The data-driven approach reinforces the importance of adapting to new technologies and using AI for efficiency improvements in marketing.

    Engage with Diverse Publications

    Staying updated on trends and best practices in earned media is crucial, and my experience leading copywriting and compliance at Juvenon positions me well for this task. A key strategy I use is actively engaging with diverse industry publications and forums. For instance, I often consult "Frontiers in Psychology" to understand consumer behavior trends, which aids in refining our content strategies.

    I also accept data-driven insights to gauge content performance and adapt our storytelling approaches. Regularly analyzing data on our website's engagement metrics helps me identify successful strategies. Moreover, I value collaborations with influencers, as seen in our affiliate program at Juvenon, which provides exposure to emerging trends in digital marketing.

    Networking with peers and attending industry webinars is another way I stay informed. Such platforms offer fresh insights and innovative ideas, ensuring our earned media strategies remain effective and relevant in the rapidly evolving health and wellness sector.

    Michelle M. Henson
    Michelle M. HensonHead of Copywriting, Legal Compliance Editor, Juvenon

    Analyze Digital Landscape

    To stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in earned media, I actively analyze the rapidly changing digital landscape using advanced AI technologies at RankingCo. These technologies allow me to precisely track market trends and consumer behavior, which I integrate into actionable marketing strategies. A key example of this is how we optimize our clients' local SEO to ensure top rankings on search engines.

    I frequently conduct comprehensive social media audits to understand what content resonates with audiences. For example, examining the language and tone of underperforming content and optimizing it to align with specific marketing goals has consistently improved engagement and reach. This data-driven approach helps us create more effective campaigns.

    Furthermore, my passion for innovation and continuous learning means I'm always exploring new strategies to improve ROI for our clients. A case in point is leveraging Meta Ads for strategic social media marketing, which has shown measurable results in customer acquisition and retention. This forward-thinking methodology enables us to deliver cutting-edge solutions that surpass client expectations.

    Leverage AI Tools

    To stay on top of the latest trends and best practices in earned media, I focus heavily on utilizing data-driven insights from our MentalHappy platform. We leverage AI tools to analyze participant engagement and feedback, which allows us to predict emerging trends in mental health needs. For example, data revealing increased interest in creative interventions led us to create specialized support groups, like our journaling-based 'Write it Out' group, boosting retention rates by 25%.

    Another strategy is maintaining a strong network within the mental health and tech industries. Being part of Y Combinator provided access to an extensive network of successful startups and mentors who share effective marketing strategies and innovations. By participating in thought leadership opportunities and panels, I not only stay informed but also contribute to the conversations shaping the industry.

    Tamar Blue
    Tamar BlueChief Executive Officer, MentalHappy

    Monitor Customer Behavior

    Staying up-to-date on trends and best practices in earned media involves both observing customer behavior and engaging with industry resources. One strategy we rely on is monitoring how customers interact with and share our products online. For example, when customers post photos of their custom fresheners featuring pets or special designs, it not only gives us insights into what resonates but also creates organic publicity that inspires others to share.

    In addition to leveraging customer-driven content, we follow industry blogs, case studies, and online communities to track what's working for other brands in earned media. This combination of real-time customer feedback and expert insights ensures that we stay ahead of trends and continue fostering authentic, shareable moments that drive earned media success.

    Nick Campion
    Nick CampionDigital Operations Manager, Make My Freshener

    Engage with Local Communities

    To stay current with trends and best practices in earned media, I immerse myself in industry events and local community initiatives. For example, when running my Detroit Furnished Rentals business, I've partnered with local Detroit festivals and events, using these platforms to engage directly with both locals and visiting guests. This approach not only keeps me informed about what's trending in Detroit but also creates strong community ties, leading to authentic word-of-mouth marketing.

    I also keep a close eye on guest feedback through reviews on platforms like Airbnb. When guests highlighted the need for personal touches, like local guides or coffee in the morning, I quickly adapted. This responsiveness not only improves the guest experience but also bolsters our reputation and trustworthiness, resulting in more positive earned media.

    Additionally, I use insights from my travel experiences to enrich my marketing strategies. For instance, my visits to culturally rich cities like Athens and New Orleans have shown me how storytelling and cultural appreciation can improve a guest's connection to a place, which is something I integrate into the properties' narratives and guest recommendations. This method often leads to organic sharing and higher engagement from guests.

    Read Industry Blogs Weekly

    To stay on top of earned media trends, I keep things simple and consistent. I read blogs like Moz and Search Engine Journal every week. These sites share useful tips and updates that help me understand what's new. I also join online groups where people talk about earned media. It's a great way to hear different ideas and ask questions.

    Local events in San Antonio are another big part of my strategy. Attending workshops and meetups lets me learn directly from experts and connect with others in the field. These face-to-face interactions are valuable for getting fresh perspectives.

    Social media is a tool I use daily. I follow key influencers and industry leaders on platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. They often share the latest news and strategies that I can apply to Chadix.ai. Setting up Google Alerts for important keywords also helps me catch new information as it happens.

    Webinars and online courses are part of my routine too. They offer deep dives into specific topics and keep my skills sharp. I make time each month to join these sessions and bring back ideas to my team.

    Lastly, I believe in experimenting. Trying out new techniques and seeing what works best for Chadix.ai keeps us flexible and ready to adapt. By combining reading, networking, social media, and hands-on testing, I ensure we stay ahead in the ever-changing world of earned media.

    Engage with Community Partnerships

    I stay updated with the latest trends in earned media by leveraging real-world feedback and social listening. For instance, we engage deeply with our community through partnerships, like our collaboration with the Tropical Audubon Society, which keeps us attuned to local and environmental priorities. This approach not only improves our brand's reputation but fosters authentic connections, generating genuine word-of-mouth marketing.

    I also focus on data-driven insights to refine our strategies. An example is our shift towards eco-friendly printing materials. Observing increased customer interest in sustainability, we incorporated products like Hahnemuhle's Natural Line papers, which aligned with market demands. This adaptation increased our orders by 10%, showing how data-informed decisions can drive earned media by promoting brand values that resonate with our audience.

    Furthermore, I integrate feedback from our clients to stay relevant. We adjusted our services and content based on artists' needs, such as offering digital proofing options during the pandemic. This client-centric approach helps maintain trust and generates positive earned media as artists and photographers share their satisfaction with our solutions.

    Engage with Industry Publications

    Staying up to date on the latest trends and best practices in earned media requires a commitment to ongoing learning and a proactive approach to research. I prioritize engaging with industry-leading publications like Forbes, Entrepreneur, and PRWeek to stay informed on what's driving successful earned media campaigns globally. Additionally, I regularly attend networking events and webinars hosted by thought leaders in the field. These interactions allow me to glean fresh insights and immediately apply them to my clients' strategies. My military background taught me the value of discipline and precision, so I dedicate time weekly to reviewing case studies, analyzing campaign data, and understanding shifts in audience behavior, particularly as they pertain to digital platforms and evolving algorithms. This consistent effort ensures I remain at the forefront of best practices.

    One example of how this strategy delivered results was when I worked with a struggling e-commerce brand in the UAE. They were spending a fortune on paid ads with minimal ROI, so I introduced an earned media strategy focused on storytelling. After analyzing market trends and studying competitor successes, I helped them craft a compelling narrative around their founder's journey and the brand's commitment to sustainability. Using my years of experience in understanding what hooks media outlets, we pitched this story to key journalists and industry influencers. The result was coverage in major outlets, including Gulf News and Forbes Middle East, which brought in a flood of organic traffic. This coverage not only increased their brand visibility but also drove a spike in sales in the first quarter. My qualifications in finance and business strategy enabled me to tie earned media outcomes directly to profitability, which is ultimately what matters most to business owners.

    Dive into Digital Marketing Publications

    Staying on top of trends in earned media is essential to our operations at Linear Design. I'm constantly diving into digital marketing publications like Social Media Examiner and Instapage, not just for best practices, but to extract new ideas and adapt them to our strategies at Linear. We have to stay relevant, and consuming industry-leading content helps me stay sharp on the latest movements.

    A concrete example of applying this knowledge is in our approach to Google Ad management and A/B testing. By integrating insights from these resources, we've been able to consistently maintain a predictable growth rate for our clients. This involves regular experiments with ad copy and user experience based on current insights to optimize conversions effectively.

    Additionally, writing for these publications pushes me to refine my thinking and share actionable strategies. This exchange of ideas isn't just about learning trends-it's about contributing to them. It benefitted our clients globally, demonstrating proven tactics for converting designs and boosting client trust through data-driven tweaks and adjustments.

    Engage with SEO Innovations

    To stay at the forefront of earned media trends and best practices, I prioritize constant learning through direct involvement with cutting-edge SEO and content marketing innovations. At Scale by SEO, we emphasize human expertise paired with AI advancements, which means I am regularly engaging with the latest industry methodologies and tools. This hands-on experience allows me to discern the most effective strategies for driving sustainable online growth.

    I conduct regular SEO audits and immerse myself in detailed performance analytics to adapt our content strategies. For instance, our comprehensive SEO audits reveal real-time shifts in search engine algorithms, enabling us to tweak our guidelines promptly. These insights inform our precision-crafted content approach, ensuring it aligns with search visibility and brand goals.

    Furthermore, I actively participate in professional forums and networks where the newest digital marketing trends are discussed. From these communities, I glean insights that guide us in crafting ethical link-building strategies and multi-format content avenues. This ongoing dialogue with industry leaders continues to improve our approach, keeping Scale by SEO ahead in the dynamic landscape of earned media.

    Blend Industry Resources

    To stay up to date with the trends and best practices of earned media, I focus on a strategic blend of industry resources. Professional development occurs through the PRSA and PR News webinars and virtual conferences where industry leaders share newly emerging best practices. Digital monitoring tools, like Meltwater, Cision, and Google Trends, help track media trends and campaign performance metrics.

    This is the combination of formal industry resources, data-driven insights, and practical peer knowledge to keep strategies working in today's fast-changing media landscape.