5 tips for content marketing success in 2017. Don’t just jump right into content development, but really vet why you’re creating a new piece. Ask questions before you write If you’re a content marketer who came from journalism, like me, then you’re probably used to finding sources for your story and doing research and interviews before you pull everything together. If you don’t have that background, it’s OK, but it’s time to change your approach and start asking questions before you write. If you take time to really understand what your customers need, you’ll create content that’s so good, they’ll want to read it — and maybe, just maybe, share it for you! If you’re currently only posting to your blog or website, branch out a bit, add in social channels, and invite influencers you’ve partnered with to share on their networks, too. If you create content that’s really focused and provides great value to your consumer, you don’t need to create tons of it. If we really focus on creating great content that our customers want and need, I think we’ll see even bigger success in 2017 and beyond. We're celebrating 10 years of providing proven tactics, networking, industry-leading vendor solutions and demos, and top notch conference amenities to hard core SEOs and SEMs. About The Author Rachel Lindteigen is the founder of Etched Marketing and the former Senior Director, Content Marketing for PMX Agency.
It’s hard to believe that it’s almost the end of 2016 and time to move on to 2017. Crazy, right? I know! Anyway, as 2016 draws to a close, I want to get us thinking about how we can improve our content marketing programs in 2017 and beyond. So, here are five tips that will help lead you to success in the new year.
1. Think before you plan
Spend time white-boarding, brainstorming, talking to your team, your customers, whoever. Don’t just jump right into content development, but really vet why you’re creating a new piece.
And be honest with yourself: Is this content that your consumer really wants or needs? If not, why are you creating it?
I’m challenging you here — that’s right. Think before you start. Don’t just create a blog post because someone said, “We need a blog.” Understand why you need a blog first.
2. Ask questions before you write
If you’re a content marketer who came from journalism, like me, then you’re probably used to finding sources for your story and doing research and interviews before you pull everything together. If you don’t have that background, it’s OK, but it’s time to change your approach and start asking questions before you write.
Meet with your stakeholders, interview your customers and talk to your customer service team to find out what customers ask about most frequently. If you take time to really understand what your customers need, you’ll create content that’s so good, they’ll want to read it — and maybe, just maybe, share it for you!
3. Invite someone else to be part of what you write
You’re likely not the only expert on the subject you’re writing about. Find someone else and include them.
Partnering with influencers is great for several reasons. First, they’re going to add…
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