8 Common Misconceptions About Content Marketing
Content marketing is one of the newest, most talked about methods of marketing in the digital age. It’s also one of the most misunderstood. Are you guilty of making some of these content marketing mistakes? If so, don’t beat yourself up! Almost all marketers are guilty of these misconceptions about content marketing and more. Let’s bust some of the most common myths:
- You need to be a writer to do content marketing. False! You don’t have to be a ‘writer’ to be a great content marketer. You just need to know how to communicate with your audience and understand what they want.
- Your content needs to be perfect. If your content contains zero grammar mistakes, but it doesn’t address the issues of your target audience, then it might not be accomplishing your goals. Focus on what matters first and foremost: add value.
- Content marketing is too expensive. Content marketing usually involves creating valuable content – but this doesn’t have to involve expensive video production and hiring actors. Sometimes, all it takes is an infographic or an ebook. Find what works best for your brand and use it in the most effective way possible.
- You need to write long articles to get the results you want. Yes, long articles have their place, but you should never settle for writing long articles just because it’s the “thing to do”. Consider your audience. Do they respond better to longer or shorter pieces of content? Consider the topic. Does it take 5,000 words to inform or educate your audience on this topic? Focus on creating content that will best resonate with your audience instead of what is on-trend.
- You can always use the same type of content for each platform. You should make sure you know what medium or platform you are writing for. Make the necessary adjustments to the content. For example, if you are writing for Instagram, you’ll need to shorten your captions – whereas, on Facebook, you may occasionally have longer captions.
- You need to use BIG words in your content. This is a common myth about content marketing, and for brands that want to become thought-leaders in their industry, it can be hard to avoid this. However, using big words or over-complicated language will not create any fans for your content or brand. Our best advice? Write your content like you are talking to a friend. Write like you are having a conversation. Simplify your language. Trust us…your audience will appreciate it!
- You can post great content every blue moon. Posting quality content is only half the battle. It is important to be consistent with creating good content and sharing it to your audience. After all, you can’t expect to hold someone’s attention if you’re only talking to them half the time.
- It’s ok to just copy other people’s content. While it is a good idea to analyze your competitors’ content to find out what’s working and why, it’s still important to be authentic and take the time to develop your unique voice and tone that will resonate with your particular audience. Remember – your audience wants to hear your voice, not someone else’s!
When it comes to content marketing, a lot of people make false assumptions. Beware – these myths can result in missed opportunities and connections. Don’t fall for it!
Ultimately, content marketing is a powerful way to keep your company’s brand relevant and improve your image as an expert in your industry. If your company is ready to take the plunge, make sure you know the fundamentals before you start crafting each piece of valuable content.
It’s true: You do need a content marketing strategy
You wouldn’t go on a road trip without a map. So why would you do the same with your content marketing efforts?
Creating a content marketing strategy doesn’t need to be an overwhelming task. It is similar to planning a trip — you just have to figure out your destination, the route you’ll take, and the supplies you’ll need for the journey.
Your content marketing strategy is the glue between your business goals and your content. It helps you determine how to organize your resources, how to make decisions about what type of content you’ll create, and how to measure your success. Whether you’re just starting to create one or have been doing it for years, you need a strategy that will help with content production.
A good content marketing strategy will help you create and distribute relevant, valuable, and consistent content that attracts your audience — and keeps them coming back for more.
Here are some of the benefits of developing a content marketing strategy:
- Make your business visible and build awareness
- Attract more traffic to your website
- Position yourself as an authority in the industry
- Generate leads that convert into sales
- Build loyalty and trust with your audience
Let the experts help
Content marketing is a powerful tool that can help you achieve your business objectives and, ultimately, generate substantial returns on your content marketing investment. So, if you’re new to content marketing or struggling with content curation, consider these common misconceptions to be helpful advice from experienced professionals. If you are a grizzled veteran of content marketing looking for guidance, don’t forget that the experienced pro’s perspective could be the best way to ensure you’re applying the principles correctly. That’s where we come in! Consider us to be the experts that are in your corner. We’re here and ready to help when you need us. 🍑