Education
Top Innovative Video Marketing Trends for 2020
With the COVID-19 pandemic occupying most of 2020, many businesses have had to suffer its dire consequences. Companies have had to shut down, people have lost their jobs, and the economies of countries have gone down by leaps and bounds. With the economy slowly coming back on track, businesses are having to pull themselves up by the bootstraps. Many businesses that have been operating on a loss or not operating at all are having to stand up once again and start operating. The scales of these businesses have reduced considerably, and this has meant that a lot less budget allocation can be done to secondary purposes such as marketing and advertising. This means that alternative marketing methods need to be thought of, such as video marketing. A number of trends have emerged as a response to all of this. The following list contains a list of the major trends of 2020.
1. Live Videos: A few years ago, nobody would’ve thought that live video of any kind would garner the kind of viewership it does now. Live was supposed to be majorly for sports and news. However, with Facebook and YouTube live feeds garnering attention, multiple social media apps have started the option to go live through your mobile phone. A number of question and answer sessions or even interviews are now held between highly followed accounts and their followers.
2. Video Shopping: A new trend that has emerged in 2020 is that of videos containing links to the poster’s products. The video itself is a novel piece of content but is interspersed with ads and product placement. If the viewer is interested in the content being advertised, he does not need to go search for the product. All he needs to do is click on the link in the video itself, and he will be taken to the website where he may purchase the product.
3. 360 Videos: Up to now, 360-degree videos have been among the biggest duds of the internet. This type of video simply does not have any takers, especially on desktops and laptops. This is because the penetration of VR headsets is shallow at this point. However, some big technology players have been hedging their bets on 360-degree videos being the future.
4. One to One Videos: With the end of the pandemic nowhere in sight, it is safe to assume that most office work of the future will take place remotely. Even after the pandemic, economics might dictate that most office work now takes place in the work from home fashion. This will mean that video conferencing is the way to go for the future, whether for a meeting or marketing.
5. Vlogging: Vlogging is not seen by many as the best type of content. It is looked down upon as it is seen as too easy and convenient. Vlogging is generally done even by YouTube celebrities on a secondary channel, and not seen as capable of billing as a primary piece of content. However, as the viewership of vlogging continues to increase, it does seem like marketing through vlogging is also a trend that will continue at least shortly.
6. Finding Videos: Video has undoubtedly become the primary form of content over the past few years. The importance of the written word has decreased with a decrease in attention spans, and that of videos has increased. This is likely to mean that searching for videos will become even more convenient in the future.
7. Training: The pandemic has meant a loss of jobs for many people. Those who have not been able to find an alternative job have generally had to resort to training through online courses. A large number of companies have come up in 2020, which provides completely online training in anything from languages to coding. This is likely to continue in the future as well.
8. Short Videos: All social media platforms have come up with their version of Instagram stories. Facebook has its own stories, and Twitter has also come up with Fleets. This is because people’s reduced attention spans have meant that they enjoy shorter form videos and still images a lot more than they do other content.
9. More Video Platforms: In the previous century, many made the mistake of considering the Ford Motor Company the be-all and end-all of car manufacturing. Today, it is hardly seen on the roads. Similarly, YouTube is not likely to forever remain the leader in video platforms. There will be a lot more video platforms in the future, all attempting to eat into the sizable lead of YouTube.
10. Autoplay: If you’re outdoors with no earphones and need to watch a video, what do you do? You watch it in silence with subtitles, of course. This was a feature first introduced by Facebook, but all video platforms have slowly caught up with it. It is hence always important to add subtitles to your videos so that they can be watched in silent mode.
11. Video Ads: Video ads are likely to increase in the future and become even more pestering than they currently are. This is because these ads are the major form of revenue for video platforms.
12. Explainers: Explainers are likely to be the most-watched video format of the future. The explainer format has started to garner much more support in 2020, and the number of explainer videos has increased manifold. This trend is likely to continue as people are restricted from leaving their houses for regular services and try to learn more skills from the safety of their houses.
Hence, these were the major trends that have been observed in 2020 and are likely to continue. With this in mind, get prepared to see your business grown many times over!
Today’s world is increasingly getting interconnected. Employers often look beyond academic credentials. They look for professionals who can adapt across cultures, communicate effectively in diverse environments, and apply knowledge in a real-world context.
This shift has made studying abroad an important pathway for students who want to develop global skills and long-term career readiness, not just earn an international degree.
Students seeking abroad programs is a decision no longer only about location or ranking. It is about exposure, perspective, and practical competencies that are difficult to acquire within a single national education system. This post explores how study abroad experiences contribute meaningfully to professional development and career preparedness.
Key Takeaways
- Study abroad builds practical, transferable skills beyond academic knowledge
- Exposure to a global classroom enhances critical thinking and adaptability
- Students abroad programs strengthen communication and cross-cultural competence
- Practical learning and independence improve career readiness
- Global network and outlook support long-term professional growth
Provides Exposure to Global Learning Environments
One of the most immediate benefits of studying abroad is exposure to different academic systems. Universities abroad often emphasise independent learning, critical thinking, and application-based assessment rather than rote memorisation. Students are encouraged to question ideas, participate in discussions, and work on projects that reflect real-world challenges.
These environments help students build analytical skills and intellectual confidence. Learning alongside peers from different countries also introduces varied viewpoints, which strengthens problem-solving abilities and encourages open-minded thinking.
Develops Cross-Cultural Communication Skills
Cross-cultural communication is a core skill in today’s global workforce. Students who participate in study abroad programs interact daily with people to improve clarity in communication, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to collaborate across differences.
Such skills are particularly valuable in multinational organisations, global research teams, and industries that operate across borders. Employers often recognise international exposure as evidence of adaptability and interpersonal maturity.
Offers Practical Learning Beyond the Classroom
Many international education systems integrate learning with practical exposure through internships, research projects, industry collaboration, or case-based coursework. These opportunities allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in professional or research-oriented settings.
Practical exposure during study abroad helps students understand workplace expectations, professional ethics, and industry standards in a global context. This experience often bridges the gap between academic learning and employment readiness.
Increases Independence and Decision-Making Ability
Living and studying in a foreign country requires students to manage daily responsibilities independently. From handling finances and accommodation to navigating academic deadlines, students develop self-reliance and decision-making skills.
This independence translates into professional confidence. Graduates who have studied abroad often demonstrate stronger time management, resilience, and accountability qualities that employers associate with leadership potential.
Improves Career Awareness and Global Outlook
Studying abroad broadens career awareness by exposing students to international job markets, emerging industries, and global career pathways. Students gain a clearer understanding of how their field operates across different regions and what skills are transferable internationally.
This awareness helps students make more informed career decisions, whether they choose to work abroad, return to their home country, or pursue international roles. A global outlook also supports long-term career mobility.
Develops Language and Professional Communication Skills
For students studying in countries where English or another global language is the primary medium of instruction, language proficiency improves naturally through immersion. Beyond language fluency, students develop professional communication skills such as academic writing, presentation, and formal discussions.
These competencies are essential in global workplaces, where clear and professional communication is critical for collaboration and career progression.
Helps Build a Global Network
Networking is a long-term benefit of studying abroad that extends beyond graduation. Students build relationships with peers, faculty members, and professionals from different countries. These networks often support future academic collaboration, job opportunities, and professional growth.
A global network also exposes students to diverse career paths and mentorship opportunities, which can be valuable throughout their professional journey.
Develops Career Readiness Through Global Competence
Career readiness is no longer defined only by technical skills. Employers increasingly value global competence, which includes adaptability, cultural awareness, ethical understanding, and collaboration ability. Study abroad experience helps students develop these competencies organically over time.
By combining academic learning with global exposure, students become better prepared for a complex, international work environment. This preparation supports sustained career growth rather than short-term employability alone.
Studying abroad is not a shortcut to career success, but it is a structured way to build global skills, professional maturity, and long-term readiness for an evolving workforce. Students who approach international education with clear goals and realistic expectations gain far more than a degree. They gain perspective, confidence, and competencies that remain relevant across industries and borders.
With access to reliable information and thoughtful guidance, students can make informed choices about international education pathways. Platforms such as Leverage Education support students in understanding study abroad options and planning their academic journey with clarity, while recognising that outcomes ultimately depend on individual effort and informed decision-making.
FAQs
What does studying abroad mean?
Study abroad refers to pursuing part or all of an academic program in a foreign country through recognised universities or student abroad programs, allowing students to gain international academic and cultural exposure.
How does studying abroad help with career readiness?
Studying abroad helps students develop skills such as adaptability, communication, and problem-solving. These skills prepared graduates to work effectively in diverse professional environments.
Does studying abroad guarantee a job after graduation?
No, studying abroad does not guarantee employment. However, it strengthens a student’s profile by building global competence and practical experience that support long-term career growth.
