2017 is already half way through, which means that 2018 is right around the corner.

As the months have progressed in 2017, we have been keeping track of the latest trends in the digital marketing space.

If you want your business to really thrive and remain relevant in the months to come, here are the top three skills that you and your team need to be focusing on:

1.) Data and System Security

Hacking and data breaches are becoming more and more common. In fact, it was estimated that in 2016 alone, over 1,093 big companies suffered from data breaches and this number is only expected to rise.

Data breaches and hacking is part of running not just an online business but any type of business. This means that your team needs to have a solid plan in place. This is even more true if you are collecting personal information, credit card details and other private information through your website.

Most marketers also have a staggering about of personal data on their target audience, making them also a hot target to be hacked.

The average cost of a data breach for most businesses is $4 million. For this reason, it is also important that your marketing team, and all your staff for that matter, are educated in online safety and security.

It may also be that you need to hire a full time security team to ensure that nothing goes unchecked.

2.) Live Video Content 

With all of the top social media accounts added live video features, it is important that your business keeps up with the trends and starts thinking about ways to use this emerging technology.

If you don’t think live video streaming is relevant to your business, you may want to think again. Statistics are now showing that 80 percent of consumers would rather watch a live video than read a company’s blog.

If you have a blog, you definitely have room to create a set of live streamed videos, so consider adding this to your marketing strategy.

3.) Create a Mobile App

Mobile apps are nothing new, but with more and more people turning to their smartphone to browse the web, it may be something worth considering.

Studies have shown that consumers are more likely to purchase from a company if they have their app. They are also more likely to remain loyal to that company.

This is most likely because having your brand’s app on their phone makes you their first choice when it comes to purchasing.

As the desktop computer slowly loses popularity and more and more people find themselves looking for information on the go, having an app may just be what you need in order to stand out from the crowd.

Through your app you can also offer incentives and giveaways, which can further keep your audience engaged and interested in what your brand has to offer.

So, there you have it. The top three skills that your company needs in order to ensure it is on track for the months to come.