You’ve heard that content is King (or Queen!), but how did content get such a high distinction? Content marketing has the power to captivate your audience, turn skeptics into believers and even establish lifelong relationships. After all, words are a powerful tool. It’s time to put those words to use and use them to help your business succeed. Check out these ways you can harness the power of content to catapult your marketing efforts.
ESTABLISH EXPERTISE
When somebody goes searching online for answers, you want to be the place they land. Think about the industry you serve and the types of questions your customers may be asking. Then, develop the answers to those questions in the form of content. Once you establish trust with your audience, they will be more likely to trust your products and services in the future.
In addition, make sure to utilize Search Engine Optimization, or SEO. This is a fancy way of saying you’re doing everything you can to optimize your content to show up in the right searches and at the top of the results. There are both paid and organic ways you can optimize for SEO, so make sure to take advantage of what makes sense for your business. When necessary, contact outside experts to help you get started.
FLEX YOUR CREATIVE MUSCLES
Content is a great way to flex your creativity and show your wit to potential customers. It’s time to get creative! Host a brainstorming session where no idea is a bad idea. Seriously, NO idea is bad. Sometimes a silly thought can spark an idea for something that might not have come to light if you hadn’t said it out loud. Encourage this type of environment with your team and involve people who may fit into the demographic you’re trying to attract.
Content creation and marketing can come in various forms, from blog posts to social media to direct mailers. Develop the same overarching message for each, but adapt to the type of medium you’re using to carry out your messaging. For direct mail, keep it short and sweet. Entice your audience using your messaging to go check out more details on a landing page. For your blog post, feel free to go into more detail and use a longer word count. Social media should also be short, sweet and to the point.
GAIN FOLLOWERS
Studies have shown that it takes 7 to 11 times seeing your content, brand or messaging before a person will remember the message or convert into becoming a customer. Thinking you’ll be able to put content out and convert on the first try is a far-fetched dream. Consistency is key. By continuing to post regularly, you’ll develop a steady follower base. Over time, needs change and some of your followers may have a new need for your business, creating new customers that have been followers for a long time!
How will you use content to elevate your marketing efforts? The sky’s the limit. Good content can take your marketing efforts to the next level by developing a loyal follower base and in turn, customers who trust your brand.