6 simple steps for effective content marketing

6 simple steps for effective content marketing

Content marketing is one of the most effective ways of establishing yourself as a thought leader in your industry and driving traffic back to your site. However when it comes to creating and syndicating content a lot of businesses don’t know where to start.

1. Research Target Audience

The first step in any content marketing strategy should be extensive research. Marketing automation software will allow you to track and profile your existing customers and potential leads.

2. Find Your Editorial Voice

Online followers will expect an unbiased and articulate editorial voice that offers them real value and consistency. If you are not a talented content writer, it is best to outsource it to one particular person. Try to find someone who has experience writing in your field whenever possible, although most skilled freelance writers can adapt their talent to any industry.

3. Answer Leads Questions

Use the content as an opportunity to answer the questions that your leads would typically ask. For example, if you sell an herbal weight loss supplement, write several different articles addressing a variety of ways to losing weight. You can mention your herbal supplement as one of the suggested weight loss solutions. Target the message towards solving the lead’s need, not necessarily your particular solution to their problem.

4. Create a Content Distribution Strategy

There are countless different websites and social networks where you can promote and post your content for free. It is essential that you know which sites your specific target audience is visiting and which content strategies will work best on those sites. A specific article may attract attention on Google+, but it could be completed ignored on Facebook. If you are not social media savvy, you can either research and learn from successful competitor’s social media sites or consult a social media expert for guidance.

5. Build Relationships in Your Field

It is important to connect and build relationships with as many online authorities in your industry as possible. You can cross-promote each other’s content, which will help both your SEO and content marketing strategies.

6. Mix Up Content with Images & Videos

Your content marketing strategy should contain more than just informative articles and compelling statuses. It needs something to make people stop in their tracks. A powerful image or an entertaining video are both great ways to get noticed.