Five articles that have us buzzing this week

COVID changed the consumer journey, but what’s likely to stick?

As marketers look forward to a post-pandemic future, Google reminds us that we should continue to focus on structuring teams and budgets to be omnichannel, pay attention to customers’ pain points, and invest in owned channels (websites and apps). Google also features a deep dive into COVID-19’s impact on the path to purchase and consumer habits that are likely to stick around for retail, travel, and finance.

Apple is turning privacy into a business advantage, not just a marketing slogan

During Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), the tech giant announced its latest privacy plans for iOS15 that will target in-app and email marketing, along with other changes. Privacy was mentioned as part of nearly every new feature, including features that will stop email tracking, allow burner (anonymous) emails, and hide user IP addresses.

How Sales Associates Use Their Digital Independence to Drive Sales

It’s well-documented that shopping habits evolved during the pandemic, but that hasn’t stopped retailers from connecting customers with expert sales associates in new ways. Adweek covers how retailers use digital tools to drive post-purchase customer service outreach, build customer loyalty, and drive online sales through one-to-one clienteling tools.

How to strengthen your text message marketing strategy and drive better results

Attentive surveyed nearly 400 retail and e-commerce marketers to learn how impactful text messaging has been on their business and discovered that they’re driving exceptional results and incremental revenue. SMS will be the next (if not already) impactful channel for marketers to engage customers and should make room for it in their digital strategies.

TikTok Shares New Insights Into How SMBs are Maximizing Their On-Platform Presence

TikTok recently provided tips for SMBs looking to utilize the platform within their digital marketing strategy as it leads the top app downloads worldwide. Suppose you are interested in building a presence on the platform. In that case, TikTok offers an in-depth look at how small business owners are using the platform to increase audience connection and boost their market presence.