๐ŸŽ‰#200 HTE๐ŸŽ‰ - Yay! You Have Got A Mail! ๐Ÿ“ฉ

Good morning, readers!

OMG, can you believe it? 

It's an EPIC day here at HTE as we celebrate our 200th edition of pure awesomeness! ๐ŸŽ‰

Cue the confetti cannons, pop the ๐Ÿพ (or sparkling water if that's your thing), and let's dive into this super-duper informative newsletter extravaganza! ๐Ÿ’ฅ

Whether you're a DTC rockstar, a budding entrepreneur, or just a curious soul hungry for knowledge, we've got a smorgasbord of tantalizing tidbits to level up your success to infinity and beyond! Prepare to have your mind blown, your creative juices flowing ๐Ÿง ๐Ÿ’ฅ, and your business strategies turbocharged! ๐Ÿš€

In this epic milestone edition, we've gathered the juiciest tips from industry experts ๐Ÿ‘ฉโ€๐Ÿ”ฌ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ’ผ, uncovered mind-bending insights that'll make your competitors quake in their boots ๐Ÿ‘ป, and hunted down the hottest trends that'll have your customers flocking to your virtual doorstep like a stampede of unicorns!๐Ÿ’จ

But wait, there's more! 

We've hidden surprises and goodies throughout this special edition, so keep your ๐Ÿ‘€ peeled for hidden gems and secret codes that could unlock exclusive rewards. Because hey, we believe in treating our readers like the rockstar VIPs they are! ๐Ÿคฉ

So buckle up, my friends, because we're about to embark on a mind-blowing journey that will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to conquer the wild world of DTC with flair and finesse.

Thank you for joining us on this remarkable 200th edition, and here's to countless more thrilling newsletters to come! โœจ

Alright, so letโ€™s get right to it!

This newsletter is going to dive into:

๐Ÿฆธโ€โ™‚๏ธ GenAI, the superhero of customer experience (CX), is here to save the day! 

๐Ÿš€ Unlocking the Potential of YouTube Shorts on TrueView Ads

๐Ÿ’ฌ Snapchat Ventures into AI Chatbots to Boost Advertising Business and User Engagement

๐Ÿ”’ Unlocking the TikTok-Amazon Puzzle: What Amazon Sellers Should Know

๐Ÿ“ˆ DTC CPG Brands Shift Advertising Focus from Facebook to TikTok, Increasing Investment

๐Ÿ’ผ HTE Job Board

๐Ÿ“• Top Reads Of The Week

โš™๏ธ Plenty Of Jobs Await You!

So, scroll down to THE VERY END & read up on whatโ€™s yet to come your way!

GenAI, the superhero of customer experience (CX), is here to save the day! 

๐Ÿฆธโ€โ™‚๏ธ With the recent releases of Midjourney, DALL-E 2, and ChatGPT, a revolutionary transformation is shaking up the marketing world. Get ready for a wild ride as we explore the incredible benefits and mind-blowing stats that GenAI brings to the table. ๐Ÿš€

Reshaping the Buyer's Journey: GenAI is like a wizard reshaping the very fabric of the buyer's journey. Its powerful tools, often combined with other AI or machine learning (ML) tech, are now used at every stage of the customer life cycle. From creating awareness to driving consideration, enabling purchases, nurturing retention, and even fostering advocacy, GenAI enhances and elevates the overall customer experience. It's like adding a sprinkle of magic to every touchpoint! โœจ

๐Ÿš€ Marketers Embrace GenAI: Prepare to be dazzled by the way marketers are embracing GenAI! Recent breakthroughs have the potential to completely revolutionize content creation. According to a March 2023 Sitecore survey, US brand marketers are head over heels for GenAI features. They particularly appreciate its ability to improve market research and content creation. It's like having a genius assistant who knows exactly what your customers want before they even say it! ๐Ÿง ๐Ÿ’ก

๐Ÿ’ฐ Investing in GenAI Pays: Guess what? Investing in GenAI isn't just a fun and fancy trendโ€”it's a smart move that pays off big time! The numbers don't lie. In fact, a whopping 66% of marketers using GenAI reported a positive return on investment (ROI), according to March 2023 data from Botco.ai. But that's not all! Many marketers also witnessed significant increases in cost efficiencies and performance, along with faster creative cycles. It's like hitting the jackpot while riding a rocket ship to success! ๐Ÿ’ธ๐Ÿ“ˆ๐Ÿ’จ

๐Ÿ“ˆ Growing Benefits of GenAI: Hold on tight because the benefits of GenAI just keep on growing! Some GenAI applications have already become staples for marketers, while others are exciting new experiments. One of the most popular forms of GenAI is none other than ChatGPT. In fact, a whopping 55% of Botco.ai survey respondents are using this powerful tool to supercharge their performance and efficiency. With ChatGPT, marketers can deliver better, more seamless experiences that resonate with their customers. It's like having a 24/7 virtual assistant who always knows the right thing to say! ๐Ÿ’ฌ๐ŸŽ‰

But wait, there's more! Let's sprinkle in some mind-blowing stats and data to dazzle you even further:

๐Ÿ“Š According to a March 2023 survey by Sitecore, 83% of brand marketers believe that GenAI tools positively impact their customer experience efforts. Talk about a vote of confidence! ๐Ÿ™Œ

๐Ÿ“Š In the same survey, 71% of brand marketers revealed that GenAI has improved their ability to understand customer needs and preferences. It's like having a crystal ball that reveals the deepest desires of your target audience! ๐Ÿ”ฎ

๐Ÿ“Š Now, let's talk numbers! According to the Botco.ai survey, marketers using GenAI reported an average increase of 32% in cost efficiencies. That's a whole lot of savings that can be reinvested elsewhere! ๐Ÿ’ฐ

๐Ÿ“Š But it doesn't stop there. The same survey found that 45% of marketers experienced faster creative cycles thanks to GenAI. Say goodbye to endless revisions and hello to lightning-fast content creation! โšก๏ธ

So, my friends, strap on your virtual capes and get ready to embrace the power of GenAI. It's a game-changer that's transforming the way marketers engage and interact with consumers. With its superhuman abilities, GenAI is reshaping the buyer's journey, capturing the hearts of marketers, and delivering impressive returns on investment. The future is bright, exciting, and full of endless possibilities with GenAI by our side! ๐Ÿ’ช

Unlocking the Potential of YouTube Shorts on TrueView Ads

YouTube TrueView Ads have long been a powerful advertising tool for reaching and engaging with your target audience. With the recent introduction of YouTube Shorts on TrueView, advertisers now have even more opportunities to connect with viewers through short-form video content. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of TrueView Ads, discuss the potential of YouTube Shorts, provide best practices for creating effective Shorts Ads, and guide you on setting up your own Shorts Ads campaign on TrueView.

What are TrueView Ads and their Benefits?

TrueView Ads are a type of video ad format offered by YouTube that allows advertisers to reach their audience effectively. With TrueView, advertisers only pay when viewers choose to watch their ad for at least 30 seconds or until the end. This cost-effective approach ensures that advertisers are only charged for engaged views, maximizing the return on their advertising investment. TrueView Ads also provide detailed analytics tools to track the success of campaigns and target specific audiences.

Understanding YouTube TrueView Ad Formats on Mobile:

YouTube Shorts Ads present a new opportunity for advertisers to expand their reach. Shorts Ads are swipeable videos or image ads that appear between Shorts in the Shorts Feed. By combining YouTube Shorts with in-stream ads, advertisers can implement a robust video advertising strategy. Viewers have the option to watch five seconds of the ad before deciding to continue or skip it. This format enables advertisers to target specific audiences and track the success of their campaigns through YouTube's analytics tools.

Best Practices for Shorts Ads Creative:

To make your TrueView Shorts Ads stand out and drive engagement, here are some best practices to follow:

  1. Hook viewers in the first five seconds: Grab the viewers' attention and convince them to keep watching.

  2. Keep it short and sweet: Aim for 30 to 60 seconds to maximize user engagement.

  3. Include clear calls to action: Tell users what to do after watching the ad.

  4. Give viewers time to act: Reserve the last ten seconds for a static call-to-action, allowing users to click and explore.

  5. Use a compelling, descriptive title: Reinforce your call-to-action and branding.

  6. Choose an eye-catching thumbnail: Entice users to click and view your video.

  7. Make your ad interactive: Use annotations and cards to enhance user engagement.

  8. Tailor your ad for the platform: Create targeted advertisements that cater to specific YouTube content.

  9. Experiment with multiple ad variations: Test different approaches to find what resonates best with your target audience.

  10. Create great content: Aim for emotionally compelling, entertaining, and informative videos.

The Actual Value of TrueView Ads:

While TrueView Ads only charge advertisers when someone completes the view, there is more to gain from the actions users take beyond the initial view. Understanding the full value of TrueView Ads is crucial for optimizing campaign performance and measuring success accurately. By leveraging the comprehensive analytics tools provided by YouTube, advertisers can gain insights into user behavior, engagement, and conversion rates.

Guide in Setting up Shorts Ads on TrueView:

While YouTube Shorts Ads are currently in beta testing, you can take steps to improve your chances of showcasing your ads in this promising new placement. Here's a guide on how to set up Shorts Ads on TrueView:

  1. Create a new campaign without a specific goal's guidance, selecting Video as the campaign type and Custom video campaign as the subtype.

  2. Fill out the necessary fields, including campaign name, bid strategy (Max CPV or Max CPM), budget, dates, networks, location targeting, and languages.

  3. Under Content Exclusions, select Additional Settings, and choose the "Mobile" option under Devices to increase the chances of showing your TrueView ads in YouTube Shorts.

  4. Copy and paste the URL of a YouTube Shorts video you want to use for your TrueView ad campaign. Choose the skippable in-stream ad format and fill in the required details such as the final URL, CTA, and headline.

  5. Set a bid strategy for CPV and click Create Campaign to publish your ad.

YouTube Shorts on TrueView Ads offer a unique opportunity for advertisers to tap into the growing popularity of short-form video content and connect with their target audience. By following best practices for Shorts Ads creative, understanding the value of TrueView Ads beyond the initial view, and setting up your campaign strategically, you can unlock the full potential of YouTube Shorts and drive better results for your advertising efforts.

Snapchat Ventures into AI Chatbots to Boost Advertising Business and User Engagement

Snap, the parent company of Snapchat, is diving into the world of AI chatbots to explore how data from its My AI chatbot can boost its advertising business, according to a report by Bloomberg. Since its introduction in February, the company has witnessed impressive engagement with My AI, with 20% of monthly users sending a staggering 10 billion messages to the chatbot.

The launch of My AI has already proven beneficial for Snap's subscription business, as the number of Snapchat+ subscribers surged to over 3 million after its introduction. This success has provided a glimmer of hope amidst Snap's otherwise challenging revenue landscape, although there was some user backlash following the AI launch.

Snapchat's foray into AI chatbots is not just a passing fad but a strategic move to leverage the technology's potential for revenue generation. By exploring sponsored links in AI responses, Snap is able to monetize even those users who are not subscribed to Snapchat+. This presents an opportunity for the company to gather valuable user data that can drive personalized content and ad recommendations. In fact, Snap's CEO, Evan Spiegel, emphasized that delivering personalized content and ad recommendations is a key focus for the company.

The rise of AI chatbots signals a broader trend in the industry, where companies are recognizing the value of harvesting user data to enhance their content and ad businesses. Advertisers should take note of this burgeoning format and its potential for delivering targeted advertising experiences. However, it's important to note that relying solely on AI chatbots may not be sufficient to improve Snap's financial outlook.

Here are some key takeaways and tips for advertisers in the realm of AI chatbots:

  1. Data Harvesting Potential: AI chatbots offer an opportunity for companies to gather valuable user data, which can be harnessed to deliver personalized content and targeted ad recommendations. Advertisers should explore ways to leverage this data to enhance their advertising strategies and better connect with their target audience.

  2. Sponsored Links: The inclusion of sponsored links within AI chatbot responses presents a monetization avenue, even for users who are not subscribed to premium services. Advertisers can capitalize on this format by incorporating sponsored links that align with their brand and messaging, ensuring they provide value and relevance to users.

  3. User Experience and Utility: While the novelty of AI chatbots may initially attract users, it is essential to focus on providing real utility to keep them engaged. Advertisers should consider how their brand can add value through AI chatbots, whether it's through answering customer inquiries, providing personalized recommendations, or offering interactive experiences.

  4. Diversify Advertising Strategies: While AI chatbots have the potential to enhance ad businesses, it is important for advertisers to adopt a holistic approach. Combining AI chatbots with other effective advertising formats and channels can create a more comprehensive and impactful marketing strategy.

  5. Evolving Landscape: The AI chatbot landscape is continuously evolving, and it's crucial for advertisers to stay updated with emerging trends and best practices. Regularly monitor industry developments, conduct A/B testing, and gather feedback from users to optimize and refine your AI chatbot advertising campaigns.

Snap's exploration of AI chatbots is driven by the desire to leverage user data for content and ad recommendations, ultimately bolstering its advertising business. Advertisers should recognize the potential of AI chatbots as a means to gather valuable insights, deliver personalized experiences, and monetize their offerings. However, a comprehensive advertising strategy that encompasses various formats and channels is still necessary for long-term success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Unlocking the TikTok-Amazon Puzzle: What Amazon Sellers Should Know

  1. TikTok users say, "Let's play hide and seek with ads!"

Not gonna lie, TikTok users have a knack for finding things themselves. They prefer searching for products on Amazon rather than clicking on ads. But here's the kicker: Even if your ad doesn't get a ton of clicks, brace yourself for a sales boost. It's like magic! ๐ŸŽฉโœจ

  1. TikTok users are social animals, just like the rest of us!

Believe it or not, one ad alone won't cut it. TikTok users tend to forget about your Amazon product if they stumble upon it in a single video. But when they see multiple TikTok profiles raving about it, they go, "Hold up, what's all the fuss about?" So, sprinkle your videos with mentions like "Brandname + keyword." That way, they'll embark on a quest to find your product on Amazon, and your sales will dance their way up! ๐Ÿ’ƒ

  1. Deep Links: The secret sauce to friction-free shopping!

Imagine this: You tap on a regular Amazon link in TikTok and...voilร ! It opens the Amazon website on your mobile browser. But let's be realโ€”who wants to bother logging into their Amazon account there? Not many! So, here's a pro tip: Use deep links that open the Amazon app directly. Bye-bye buyer friction, hello seamless shopping! ๐Ÿ“ฑ๐Ÿ’จ

  1. Amazon Attribution? Don't be fooled 99% of the time!

Oh, the mysteries of TikTok! Turns out, it's not always a reliable pal when it comes to tracking details from your Amazon links. And guess what? Amazon keeps some data secrets to themselves (maybe they're just playing hard to get). So, relying on Amazon Attribution? Think twice, my friend. It's like navigating through a hidden maze. ๐Ÿคทโ€โ™€๏ธ๐Ÿ”

So, follow these four steps in your campaign, and guess what? 

You'll be light-years ahead of your competitors! ๐Ÿ‘Š

DTC CPG Brands Shift Advertising Focus from Facebook to TikTok, Increasing Investment

Oh snap! Facebook seems to be losing its cool with the younger crowd, and as a result, direct-to-consumer (D2C) ad budgets for CPG (Consumer Packaged Goods) brands are taking a detour into exciting new channels. It's time to shake things up and explore the emerging platforms that are capturing the hearts of the young and trendy. Get ready for a wild ride as we dive into the dynamic world of DTC advertising!

According to a captivating study by Rockerbox in April 2023, Facebook's share of CPG and beauty brands' DTC ad spending has taken a nosedive. Back in Q1 2020, Facebook had a firm grip on 52.6% of the pie, but by Q4 2022, it tumbled down to a mere 30.2%. Whoa, that's quite a drop! It seems like the young ones are looking for something fresh and exciting.

But where is Facebook's lost share going, you ask? Well, the majority of it is shifting towards the captivating world of video. In fact, more than half of Facebook's lost share found its new home in the realms of linear TV (7.3%) and the trendsetter, TikTok (4.5%), during Q4 2022. And guess what?

Both of these platforms were starting from ground zero back in Q1 2020. Talk about a meteoric rise! These channels are leveraging the power of sight, sound, and motion to capture attention, build awareness, and ignite brand consideration. Not to mention, their attribution capabilities are getting stronger by the day, showcasing their effectiveness in driving sales. It's like a magical combination of entertainment and business!

But hold on tight, because TikTok is stealing the show when it comes to CPG and beauty DTC brands. This short-form video platform has become the talk of the town, winning over the budgets of CPG and beauty brands as they discover effective creative and influencer strategies to skyrocket their DTC sales. According to Rockerbox's data, these categories embraced TikTok at a whopping 24% higher rate than DTC brands overall. It's a whole new world of creativity, where brands can let their imagination run wild and captivate audiences in seconds. TikTok is where the cool kids hang out, and CPG and beauty brands are certainly joining the party!

So, what does this mean for the future of DTC advertising? It's time to think outside the box and explore new horizons. While Facebook may have been the kingpin for a while, the shifting landscape is opening up opportunities for brands to experiment and connect with audiences in fresh and exciting ways. Linear TV and TikTok are the rising stars, offering a mix of entertainment, engagement, and sales potential. It's time to tap into the power of video, where sight, sound, and motion come together to create impactful brand experiences.

As CPG and beauty brands embark on this new adventure, it's important to stay ahead of the curve. Keep an eye on the latest trends, embrace creativity, and leverage the power of influencers to make a splash on TikTok. It's a platform where boundaries are pushed, and brands can stand out from the crowd.

In this evolving landscape, Facebook's loss is just the beginning of a thrilling chapter in DTC advertising. So buckle up, my friends, and get ready to ride the wave of emerging channels and captivating content that will propel your brand to new heights. It's time to let your imagination soar and connect with audiences in ways that will leave them wanting more. The world of DTC advertising is full of surprises, and the journey has only just begun! ๐ŸŒŸ๐Ÿš€

HTE Job Board

Are you tired of sifting through countless job postings or struggling to find qualified candidates for your openings? Look no further! Introducing the HTE Job Board, your ultimate destination for hassle-free job searches and seamless recruitment.โœจ

For Job Seekers: Are you seeking new opportunities that align with your skills and aspirations? The HTE Job Board is here to simplify your job search process. With our user-friendly platform and extensive database of job listings, you can explore a wide range of positions across various industries. Whether you're a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or anywhere in between, we have the right job for you.๐Ÿ”Ž

What sets us apart: ๐Ÿ’ผ

๐ŸŽฏExtensive Job Listings: Access a comprehensive selection of job postings from top companies, ensuring you have access to a diverse array of opportunities.

๐Ÿ“ฌAdvanced Search Filters: Easily narrow down your search based on location, industry, experience level, and more, so you can find the perfect fit.

๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธ Job Alerts: Stay updated with the latest job opportunities by setting up customized job alerts tailored to your preferences. Never miss out on a potential career-changing opportunity again.

๐Ÿ’ช User-Friendly Interface: Our intuitive platform provides a seamless browsing experience, making it quick and convenient for you to navigate through job postings and submit applications.

For Recruiters: Finding the right talent for your organization can be challenging. That's where the HTE Job Board comes in. We provide a streamlined recruitment process that connects you with highly qualified candidates who match your specific requirements.

Why choose us:

๐Ÿ“ข Targeted Candidate Pool: Our job board attracts a diverse range of skilled professionals actively seeking new opportunities, ensuring you have access to a talent pool aligned with your industry and needs.

๐Ÿ’ป Efficient Job Posting: Easily create and manage job listings on our platform, reaching a wider audience of potential candidates quickly and effectively.

๐ŸŒŸ Applicant Tracking System: Our integrated applicant tracking system allows you to streamline your recruitment workflow, making it easier to review applications, schedule interviews, and manage the hiring process.

๐Ÿš€ Employer Branding: Showcase your company's unique culture, values, and opportunities to attract top talent. Enhance your employer brand through our platform to stand out from the competition.

Join the HTE Job Board today and experience the difference in your job search or recruitment process. Visit our website and sign up for our newsletters to stay updated with the latest job opportunities and recruitment trends. Don't miss out on your chance to find the perfect match!

Remember, success starts with the right connection. Join the HTE Job Board and let us help you make that connection effortlessly. Visit HTE Job Board now to get started!

Top Reads Of The Week

IN NEED OF A JOB?  WE'VE GOT PLENTY AWAITING YOU!

Management Accountant - Neogen

Ecommerce Manager - Blundstone

Wholesale Channel Lead - Driftaway Coffee

Quantity Surveyor โ€“ Glazing

Freight Trade Support - RWE

CHOOSE SUCCESS below and have a great weekend! Get that DTC business runninโ€™.