3 Easy Steps to Successful Content Marketing

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As we bid adieu to 2016 and bring in a new year, we reflect on the past and look ahead at what is to come. Looking back, we see how content marketing has transformed through the years, and continues to progress and change. Looking forward, we ask what can we do to utilize content and make our marketing strategies succeed?

People are consuming content more than ever. This is because content completely surrounds us in our everyday life. Smart phones and tablets give us any information we want, right at our fingertips. Google, social media, print media, emails, television, radio, podcasts, webinars…the list goes on and on. Some people prefer to see pictures and videos, while others would rather read written material. There are so many options that are easily accessible and individuals are able to decide where and how they want to consume. No matter where it comes from, it all boils down to the content, the center of marketing. So the question is, how do you make your content marketing strategy work? Here are 3 easy and implementable steps to use.

1. First, you must create content that customers want in order to attract and hold their attention. And how do you do that? The answer is simple, by listening to people, specifically your target audience. And then interact with them to learn more, also known as having a conversation. I know, right? This is so easy! You are not expected to be a mind reader. Ask questions and then truly listen to the consumer. When you engage in these conversations with others you can use the feedback you are given and find some interesting, new topics. Continue to create new, exciting, and different content. Another way to find what your target audience is looking for is by using tools, such as Google Analytics.  This helps you to determine what type of content the audience is consuming most. Keep diving into those popular subjects!

2. Educate the audience by providing quality content. Once you have complied topic ideas and are aware of what people want to learn, you become a teacher. The quality is imperative to gain trust and respect from your users. Start by asking yourself these questions: “Is this content informative?” “Will the content benefit or help the consumer?” “Does the information provide value?” Quality content is what keeps the audience coming back for more!

3. The final piece to your strategy is to track and measure your content marketing efforts. Use the proper tools to help you measure your return on investment. Social media platforms provide business analytics to track your campaigns as well as other digital programs. This will allow you to know what is working for you and what needs to be improved. ROI is an important step to show your marketing effectiveness and growth. Make sure you check metrics such as top pages, keywords searched, and time-on-site per page. These tools will provide useful information and give you a solid look at overall audience engagement.

Content marketing does not have to be hard, so don’t over think your strategy. Use these three simple steps and amp up your content marketing strategy this year. Keep it simple by paying attention to the consumers around you, providing quality material, and measuring your successes.