Today’s internet users have their pick of thousands of brands, businesses, and organizations to get information from. And they’re able to do so at a moment’s notice with just a few clicks or taps. With all of these options available, you’ve got to make your content stand out if you want anyone to pay attention. The good news is that you can do things that will improve your chances. One such action is providing useful information via an organized content marketing plan.
If you’re interested in starting your own content marketing business, there are specific steps you should take to make sure that you don’t fail before you even get started. Use this checklist of things to do and keep in mind when establishing your business to ensure success.
Research the Industry and Niche
Before you begin selling your services, it’s a good idea to get an idea of what else is out there. Look at what other companies and individuals are doing, but more importantly, look at why they are doing it. A great way to research niches is through social media sites like Twitter and Instagram.
Due to the boom of technology and social media, people need content marketing every day. It’s essential to know how your audience receives information and how many ways they might want that information delivered. For example, if you think podcasts might be appealing for your target audience, look for upcoming podcasts that may fit their needs and then approach them about potential sponsorship opportunities.
Choose Your Product/Service
You’ll need to pick out your product to get your business started. But before you do that, it’s good to know that you have a few options. You can sell digital products or services like website design and development or coaching programs. One popular service with content marketing is handling social media pages for companies. You can also offer photo and video services for commercials and advertisements. Once you figure out what type of product and service you want to focus on, it’s time to identify who your clients will be.
Choose Your Platform(s)
Every content marketing strategy is different, and part of your plan should include figuring out which platforms will work best for you. Are you going to focus on Facebook or Instagram? Perhaps you’ll use your website. Start by writing down all of your options, then weigh how much effort each one will take versus how many readers it might attract. You can always change course as you go along. You can also make your website using sites like Wix or Weebly.
Write Content to Fit Each Platform
Platforms are powerful tools for building an audience. But with each platform comes a different language, tone, and format. As you develop your content marketing business, it’s important to build out specific strategies for each platform and even for individual channels within each platform. That will help you connect with your audience in a way that resonates with them and builds trust—which will lead to more conversions.
Engage With Influencers in the Industry
One of your first steps toward getting traction with content marketing is also one of your easiest. Reach out to industry influencers, bloggers, and other content creators, and ask them to contribute guest posts. Not only does guest posting establish you as an authority in your field, but it also helps build relationships that can help your business down the road. You can also offer them discounted services if they need help with their content.
Build Relationships With Customers/Clients
No business owner ever got anywhere without customers or clients. The best way to get it is through relationship building. It involves getting out and speaking with your potential audience, often at local networking events, trade shows, and so on. Remember, it’s important to make genuine connections that lead to long-term value for you and your business.
Build a Space for Your Content
Create a place where you can shoot content for clients. Invest in basic equipment like a camera, microphone, tripod, lights, and software that makes it easier to streamline your process and create highly polished pieces in no time at all. You’ll need some skills behind an editing machine, but investing in one of these will make your life infinitely easier when it comes to creating content daily.
You can also build a space in your own office with the sole purpose of making content. Design it with lights and white walls for a more versatile shooting location. Don’t forget your flooring. Choose classy and professional ones like hardwood floors. Remember, you’re running a business. Your office needs to be as professional as possible. Also, add green screens and photoshoot backgrounds to your setup. Just because you might not have enough money to rent studios or spaces now doesn’t mean you shouldn’t invest in having an impressive setup for yourself.
Many people who want to start a content marketing business have all these great ideas but don’t know where to begin. In reality, it’s not that difficult—but it is important to take your time and follow these seven steps. You’ll be launching your business in no time!
