In a recent report by Daniel Newman (@danielnewmanUV), he introduces the top twelve apps every marketer must have in today’s competitive economy. Previously, a report was conducted by App Annie Index in which the top mobile app trends of 2014 were showcased. Mobile video streaming, gaming, social networking, video and photo apps are all on the rise. With over 260 billion app downloads from the iOS and Google Play marketplaces last year, marketers need to know which apps will boost their brand and create engagement, and which will deliver the most success.

The following apps are divided into four distinct categories: Content distribution, social media management, social listening and employee advocacy.

Content Distribution: Making sure content is accurate and positioned in the right place and time is essential in making sure your voice is heard. These apps can help you cut down excess time spent in distributing content.  

1. Buffer

2. PixxFly

3. Pagemodo

Social Media Management: There is no doubt that social media is on the rise. As a marketer, making sure you have the right tools to limit time spent on social media can be of extreme value.

1. Hootsuite

2. Sprout Social

3. Tint

Social Listening: Listening to the latest buzz can be beneficial to your business, and knowing what your target market wants or doesn't want is vital. Keeping up with the latest talk will allow you to act in a timely manner by inserting your business into the conversation.

1. Buzzsumo

2. Mention

3. Cyfe

Employee Advocacy: Interaction and discussions between your employees can create brand advocates and boost marketing strategies. The sharing of content from person to person plays a key role in the success of your business. Here are a few apps we believe are on the rise for employee advocacy.

1. Dynamic Signal

2. SoAmpli

3. EveryoneSocial

We believe the most important thing you can do as a marketer, business or entrepreneur, is to listen to the conversations within your industry. Be in the know  about what your customers are talking about, what they want, and revolve your business tactics around them. Check out the apps mentioned above and determine whether they fit accordingly into your business model. Being up to date with the right  tools in today’s competitive market is a step in the right direction.