The Darwin CX "Future of Publishing" panel brought together industry leaders to discuss how publishers can stay relevant by building strong communities, anticipating trends, and enhancing customer engagement. This thought-provoking conversation reveals actionable insights into the future of publishing, highlighting innovative marketing approaches, the shift toward membership models, and the importance of customer service.
.png)
In an increasingly digital landscape, many publishers are exploring new ways to generate revenue while adding value for their customers and enhancing their relevance. They aim to build communities around their readers, ensuring their publications become integral to their lives. Historically, publishers have tackled these opportunities in isolation, but the Darwin CX “Future of Publishing” expert panel sought to break down those silos and foster a global conversation among industry leaders. By collaborating on these possibilities, we can navigate the evolving publishing landscape more effectively. Here are the key takeaways from our enlightening discussions:
A recurring theme at the event was the essential role of community in the publishing business. Cary Zel, President of Darwin CX, “In today’s competitive landscape, fostering a community is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. The quilting industry is a perfect example of how niche markets can thrive by creating dedicated spaces for engagement.”
This sentiment resonated throughout the day, emphasizing that as we compete against giants like Amazon Prime, we must cultivate a loyal community that sees real value in our offerings. Engaging with audiences through shared interests creates stronger connections and encourages sustained support.
Looking ahead to the next five years, several trends are set to reshape the publishing landscape:
Exceptional customer service emerged as a vital topic. “The speed at which you can lose a community often hinges on the quality of customer interactions,” cautioned Jason Maghanoy. The event highlighted examples of brands that excel in customer service, such as Sephora, illustrating how positive experiences can foster brand loyalty and drive sales.
“A shameless plug for Darwin CX here” notes Jared Katzman, Consumer Marketing Director, NPS Media, “When a customer engages through an email or clicks through on a campaign, they are directed to the customer service portal powered by Darwin, which pulls up their individual record and history. Darwin does an excellent job of facilitating upsells or encouraging customers to renew” Investing in customer support should be a top priority as we transition to membership models, where trust and engagement are paramount.
Addressing the challenge of an aging subscriber base, the panel discussed strategies for reaching younger demographics. “Traditional print subscriptions may not resonate with younger audiences,” Jason noted. “Instead, we need to leverage platforms like TikTok to create engaging content that speaks to them directly.”
Understanding where younger consumers spend their time and how to connect with them on those platforms is essential for growth. Engaging younger audiences requires innovation and a willingness to experiment with new formats.
A shift in marketing approaches was a hot topic, with creative tactics gaining prominence. “Direct mail is making a comeback, especially for reaching millennials,” Jared Katzman, Consumer Marketing Director at NPS Media noted “In a digital-first world, surprising your audience with tangible marketing can really capture attention.”
Participants stressed the importance of experimenting with various channels to discover what resonates best with target audiences. “Marketing is no longer just about reaching people; it’s about connecting with them in meaningful ways,” Michael added.
Conclusion
The discussions at the Darwin CX “Future of Publishing” expert panel discussion in Toronto, ON underscored the necessity of adapting to industry changes through community engagement, innovative membership models, and top-notch customer service. As we navigate the future of publishing, these insights will be crucial in maintaining relevance and building lasting relationships with our audiences.
With a shared commitment to innovation and connection, the future looks promising for the publishing industry.
In an increasingly competitive industry, adapting to change and focusing on meaningful audience engagement is more important than ever. Here are the three key takeaways from the panel discussion:
