Here are the 7 Trends Online Service Providers Should Prioritize in 2022
With another year behind us, it’s time to look ahead to the “top x trends” and “must-have platforms” for the coming year. But let’s separate the money-making trends from the ones that get recycled and reworded.
These are the seven strategies, tools, methods, and approaches that online service providers must keep in mind if they want to dominate their niche and grow wild in 2022.
1. Pricing transparency will be critical
There will be no more price gatekeeping. Your leads will prefer it if you lay your pricing out on the table in the new year. Instead of traditional hoops, your prospective clients must navigate pricing guides, email lists, and sales calls. The year 2022 marks a change in the way we sell and convert.
This is why:
- Transparency in pricing reduces uncertainty, priming your leads to buy.
- Transparency in pricing positions your service as an asset rather than an expense.
- Transparency in pricing prioritizes value over cost.
- Pricing transparency compel you to have faith in your pricing strategy.
- Transparency in pricing fosters trust and reduces the fear of a “sleazy sell.”
The bottom line? Transparency boosts trust. And leads that trust, are leads that convert — for life.
2. There are numerous new niches and opportunities
As the online world grows, so will the need for specialization. Smart online service providers will identify their niche and focus their entire strategy, marketing, and messaging on it.
Hairdressers, spas, educational organizations, personal brands, and non-profits are all looking for designers, copywriters, business managers, and creatives who understand their specific industries. Furthermore, ex-corporate professionals who transition into the online space provide a competitive advantage. They have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to provide services to the industries in which they previously worked.
3. Increased demand for major online service providers
Businesses will go back to basics in 2022, adding traditional roles such as graphic designers, copywriters, social media managers, virtual assistants, and online business managers to their teams. With an estimated 4.4 million new businesses founded in 2020 alone, this number is expected to rise into the new year, with the founders behind them wanting to get off to a good start.
It means they’re willing to invest in the services of creative and strategic business experts, creating an excellent opportunity for aspiring online service providers to capitalize on this expanding market. High ticket services will thrive during this time, from VIP Days to “websites in a week,” as new business owners look to get into the market as quickly as possible. They are willing to invest more money in high-level services, so creatives who can capitalize on this by offering unique, high-value offers with a quick turnaround will profit the most.
4. Short-form video continues to reign supreme
Every year, we hear the same thing: video content is the way to go. And, with TikTok finally making a name for itself in 2021, the playing field has never been more level. Forget about spending up to $1500 on boosting a Facebook ad — you can now reach, engage, and convert more of your ideal clients organically with a 15-second reel or TikTok video alone.
The best part is that some of the most successful short-form video content is raw, authentic, and unedited, making video creation (and success) easier than ever. Short-form video content, ranging from “a day in the life” to “5 tips to XYZ,” can (and should) be incorporated into your 2022 content strategy if you want to leverage the power of viral video to increase your social following and leads.
5. Consistency is essential
Being punctual is fashionable in 2022. Showing up online on a consistent, authentic, and on-brand basis will be critical to the growth of your service-based business. Being present for your community demonstrates a unique level of commitment that encourages them to connect and buy.
Even better, when you show up (to serve your community without sleazily expecting something in return every time), you embody the behavior, mindset, and strength of a true leader and CEO. As entrepreneurs, we understand that small steps taken every day add up to something bigger, and the same is true when it comes to building an online community.
6. Distinction will make or break you
Standing out is more important than ever in an era when “saturated market” appears to be the most intimidating concept. Sure, you’ll likely have the same offers, style, and approach as another company, but your key differentiator is you.
Even if you’re just starting out as an online service provider, think about a unique angle you can take. There is a unique specialty within each of us, ranging from the values you hold dear and the offers you combine to the people you most enjoy working with and the exclusive experience you bring from your previous career. It’s time to find yours in 2022.
7. Constantly remaining agile
Sure, keep your finger on the pulse of industry trends. Above all, consider what the people you serve truly desire. Every day, prioritize social listening on key social media platforms by tuning in to their conversations, comments, shares, and stories. There’s probably a plethora of ideas for new offers, content, and sales tactics to draw from.
When opportunities to modify, refine, niche down, or expand out your signature offerings arise, don’t be afraid to pivot (yes, the word on everyone’s lips). You should never feel locked into one offer, course, or service type when your audience is clamoring for something else. The faster you can meet their needs, the more benefits you will receive. In 2022, it’s all about evolving with your audience and adapting to their needs.
Those who can openly demonstrate their worth, strike the right chords with new audiences, and meet the needs of the world no matter where they are will thrive in 2022. And it’s going to be a hell of a year.
