Leverage 2024 Entertainment Trends to Grow Your SME

Introduction:
Entertainment trends are rapidly evolving, influencing how consumers engage with brands and spend their leisure time. For small and medium businesses (SMEs) in India, understanding these trends can unlock new opportunities for marketing, customer engagement, and revenue growth. This post highlights the top entertainment trends of 2024 and offers practical steps for SMEs to integrate them into their business strategies.

## Trend 1: Short-Form Video Dominance
Short videos on platforms like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and Moj continue to capture massive attention.
- What it is: Quick, engaging video content under 60 seconds designed for mobile consumption.
- How to use it:
- Create product demos, tutorials, or behind-the-scenes clips.
- Use trending audio or challenges relevant to your niche.
- Post consistently 3-5 times per week to build an audience.
- Example: A local apparel brand in Delhi showcases styling tips via 30-second videos, boosting both foot traffic and online orders.

## Trend 2: Interactive Live Streaming
Live streaming is becoming a key channel for real-time customer interaction and sales.
- What it is: Broadcasting live video content to engage viewers instantly, often with chat or shopping features.
- How to use it:
- Host live Q&A sessions about your products or services.
- Showcase new launches or exclusive offers.
- Collaborate with micro-influencers to co-host streams.
- Example: An organic skincare SME in Bangalore hosts weekly live sessions educating customers about ingredients, increasing repeat purchases.

## Trend 3: Regional and Vernacular Content
Consumers increasingly prefer entertainment in their local languages.
- What it is: Content created in regional languages like Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, etc.
- How to use it:
- Tailor your marketing videos, ads, and social posts in the local language.
- Use vernacular influencers to reach target demographics.
- Leverage local festivals and cultural themes in content.
- Example: A food delivery startup in Pune runs Marathi language campaigns during Ganesh Chaturthi, boosting local engagement.

## Trend 4: Augmented Reality (AR) Experiences
AR is becoming accessible to SMEs for interactive customer experiences.
- What it is: Technology that overlays digital content onto the real world via smartphones or apps.
- How to use it:
- Implement AR filters on Instagram or Snapchat to let customers virtually try products.
- Use AR in-store for interactive product info or gamified experiences.
- Partner with AR developers offering affordable packages.
- Example: A jewellery SME in Jaipur uses Instagram AR filters to let customers virtually try on earrings.

## Trend 5: Podcasting and Audio Content
Audio content is gaining traction as a flexible entertainment medium.
- What it is: On-demand spoken-word content including interviews, stories, or expert tips.
- How to use it:
- Launch a short podcast related to your industry or customer interests.
- Sponsor or advertise on popular regional podcasts.
- Share audio snippets on social media to build curiosity.
- Example: A fitness centre in Chennai produces weekly podcasts on wellness tips, attracting local clients.

Conclusion:
Entertainment trends offer practical tools for SMEs to deepen customer relationships and stand out in competitive markets. Over the next 7 days, pick one trend that aligns with your business and start creating relevant content or experiences. Whether it’s posting your first short video or planning a live stream, small consistent steps can lead to meaningful growth.