Listen. If you are even remotely connected to the business world, then you’ve likely heard the phrase “content marketing.” And if you haven’t heard of it, you’ve definitely been exposed to it. In fact, you’re being exposed to it right now. Whether it be a blog, social media, a website or a video, content marketing is all around us.
But what exactly is content marketing? I’m glad you asked!
To me, content marketing means creating and sharing valuable, organic information that will gain your audience’s interest, trust, and loyalty – and ultimately convert into more business.
Let me break this thing down for you.
That traditional print ad that you’ve probably put out before may have offered a free month of your services. That directly correlates to money, so sometimes we find it difficult to understand how something like a blog post or a Facebook update might come full circle and bring us more business. This content you’re putting out is acting as a way for people to get to know you and your business. They don’t have to come into your store or call you. Your content is allowing them to get to know you more quickly and easily than the latter. The material you’re sharing typically shouldn’t explicitly promote a brand or product but is intended to spark interest in the brand or product. Additionally, your content serves as a way for you to show off your smarts! It doesn’t matter what line of business you’re in. If you can remain confident and drop some knowledge, people are going to be enthusiastic about doing business with you.
Does that make sense?
So, now that we have a better grasp on content marketing, let’s dive deeper.
Why should you invest in content marketing?
The list of benefits to content marketing goes on and on, but above all, I want you to understand today’s consumer. We are hungry for good information but powerfully resist the hard sell. Think about it. We do all kinds of research on a product before we even attempt to talk to the companies that make them. We want to gather information on our terms without feeling like we’re being “sold”.
You also need to understand the way consumers receive and absorb content. Information is all over the place and we can’t control the distribution of said info. This means that your audience is out there looking for solutions. If you can be a resource, you’ll build trust with your potential customers which ultimately results in sales and retention.
Tangible Benefits provided by Content Marketing
· Boosts SEO (Search Engine Optimization)
· Provides social media campaign material
· Enhances Website Value
· Critical for conversions
When you create quality content, your company sees the long-term benefits! Think of your compelling content as real estate – like in Monopoly! You want to own as much of the board as you possibly can!
