Leverage 2024 Entertainment Trends to Boost Your SME Growth

In 2024, entertainment trends are reshaping how consumers engage with brands. For small and medium business owners, understanding and applying these trends can drive customer engagement, build brand loyalty, and ultimately grow revenue. Here’s a practical guide to the latest entertainment trends and how Indian SMEs can use them effectively.

## Trend 1: Short-Form Video Content
Short-form videos on platforms like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and ShareChat are dominating user attention. Their quick, snackable format suits today’s fast-paced consumption habits.

How SMEs can use it:
- Create 15-60 second videos showcasing products, behind-the-scenes, or customer testimonials.
- Use popular local music and trending hashtags to increase reach.
- Post consistently (3-5 times a week) to build an audience.
- Example: A local organic tea brand in Kerala can demonstrate brewing tips or customer reactions in short clips.

## Trend 2: Interactive and Live Streaming Experiences
Live commerce and interactive live streams allow real-time customer engagement and trust building.

How SMEs can use it:
- Host live product demos or Q&A sessions on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube.
- Offer exclusive live discounts or bundle deals.
- Encourage viewers to participate via comments or polls.
- Example: A Mumbai-based handicraft store can showcase artisans crafting live and answer buyer queries.

## Trend 3: Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Try-Ons
AR technology is becoming accessible and can enhance online shopping by letting customers visualize products virtually.

How SMEs can use it:
- Integrate AR filters on Instagram or Facebook to let users try products (e.g., jewelry, eyewear).
- Partner with affordable AR tool providers tailored for SMEs.
- Promote AR experiences in social campaigns to boost interaction.
- Example: An eyewear retailer in Delhi can offer virtual try-ons via Instagram filters.

## Trend 4: Podcasting and Audio Content
Podcasts and audio storytelling are growing as consumers look for hands-free, on-the-go content.

How SMEs can use it:
- Start a branded podcast discussing industry trends, customer stories, or product tips.
- Collaborate with local podcasters for sponsorship or guest appearances.
- Share audio snippets on social media to draw listeners.
- Example: A Bengaluru-based fitness studio can create weekly wellness podcasts.

## Trend 5: Regional and Vernacular Content
Content in regional languages is critical to reaching wider Indian audiences, especially outside metro cities.

How SMEs can use it:
- Create videos, posts, and ads in the local language.
- Use vernacular influencers to amplify reach.
- Tailor messaging to local festivals and cultural themes.
- Example: A Jaipur textile SME can run Diwali campaigns in Hindi and Rajasthani dialects.

## Trend 6: User-Generated Content (UGC) and Community Building
Consumers trust peer content more than brand ads. Encouraging UGC builds authentic connections.

How SMEs can use it:
- Run contests encouraging customers to share photos or reviews.
- Feature UGC on your website and social channels.
- Create a branded hashtag to track content.
- Example: A Chennai-based organic food brand can highlight customer recipes using their products.


### Next Steps: Implement Within 7 Days
- Choose one or two trends that fit your business and audience.
- Plan a simple content calendar for short videos or a live session.
- Engage your current customers to generate UGC.
- Explore free or low-cost AR tools and vernacular content options.

By taking these focused steps, your SME can harness entertainment trends to reach new customers and deepen engagement effectively.