Content marketing is the technique of generating and distributing valuable and relevant content in order to attract, educate, and obtain a target audience with the goal of driving profits via customer action. According to LinkedIn Technology Marketing Company, 72 percent of marketers have a content strategy in place. The three overarching goals of content marketing are lead generation, market education, and brand awareness. Competition can be fierce which is why staying ahead of the curve is vitally important. Take a look at these five trends in content marketing that will set your business apart from the crowd.
Automated Content
We all know your website and social media presence is paramount. Putting social media to use is one of the most effective strategies available. Now there are tools available to aid in automation and evaluation. Distributing your content across multiple platforms has never been easier. Scheduling posts can be programmed via web services such as Curata. Additionally, Google AdSense and Amazon Associates enable automated website ad space, as well.
Niche Content
With Google’s Knowledge Graph providing instant answers to questions via the search engine directly, users are less likely to click on links. This means sites housing one-dimensional content will be completely overlooked. By providing targeted, specific, and specialized content to your audience, you can avoid being overlooked. Delivery of informative content will establish you as an authority within your industry.
Multimedia Content
Visual media can have a large impact on consumers and can change the way your company is perceived. By 2017, Cisco estimates online video will make up 70 percent of consumer internet traffic. Multimedia content such as infographics and videos lend an air of credibility to your brand and effectively engage your audience. Interactive elements such as games, surveys, and polls increases engagement with your business.
Influencer Content
One of the newer content marketing trends involve enlisting key influencers to serve as brand ambassadors. This individual is specifically selected to enhance awareness of your brand via their personal network. Determining the most relevant influencers for your industry may be challenging, but once chosen, this person can have a substantial effect on swaying consumers to proceed with purchases.
Blog Content
Creating content and posting to your company’s blog is one of the best ways to reach consumers. Focusing on quality, instructive, and engaging content can establish yourself as an industry leader and enhance overall credibility among consumers. Building and maintaining a hearty online network is key. As with influencers, inviting guest bloggers to post applicable content on your site can drive traffic and increase brand exposure as well. You will build your network best by cultivating relationships, sharing others’ content, and interacting on your social channels. Leave comments on others’ blog posts and hope the favor is returned on yours. The larger your network, the more potential customers you have the opportunity to reach.
Staying current on content marketing trends will give you an edge against the competition and set you apart in the eye of consumers. Which trends are you most interested in pursuing for your business?
