If you head over to your social media feed right now, you’ll notice how it’s full of loud brands, but only a few of them actually speak to their audience.
The thing is, content shouldn’t be just king but the entire royal family. It should embody sophistication, class, and exceptional quality.
Now, you’re here because you realize that pushing generic content won’t cut it anymore. And you’re most likely interested in figuring out what you could be doing more so you can create content that stands out.
Well, we’ve got your back on this one – it’s time for a content marketing glow-up. Dive in with us as we explore eight game-changing content marketing tactics that’ll have your audience hooked, engaged, and eager for more.
Get Interactive
Ever found yourself squinting at a complex formula or skimming through lengthy descriptions, wishing there was an easier way? Interactive content is the antidote you’re looking for.
This type of content allows you to facilitate while you inform. When you integrate interactive elements that resonate with your customer’s pain points and align with your content strategy, you’re not just creating content – you’re crafting an experience.
So, instead of offering people the formulas and descriptions on how they can do and calculate certain things, offer them functionality that does it for them.
For instance, consider MarketBeat. They’re not just a digital hub offering real-time financial data and objective market analysis. They’re a platform that truly understands the crux of their user’s challenges.
Instead of drowning visitors in generic stock terminology and numerical gymnastics, they’ve set up a nifty stock average calculator page. It’s straightforward and aligns perfectly with their audience’s need to swiftly understand the cost basis for all stocks in their portfolio. It’s great for providing data while simplifying the complexities of the calculation.
Then there’s Shopify, the popular ecommerce and AI site builder. They could’ve easily listed out endless themes with jazzy descriptions and left you to wade through the sea of choices. But they didn’t.
Their “How Do You Pick the Best Theme for Your Online Store?” quiz is a testament to their commitment to user experience. Instead of overwhelming potential users with choices, they’re guiding them to a personalized answer, all before they even click “sign up.”
Start Taking SEO (More) Seriously
SEO is a lot more than a buzzword about stuffing keywords. It’s more of a lifeblood of discoverability in our digital ocean.
But, as algorithms evolve and search habits change, modern SEO has become a blend of art, science, and constant learning.
So, elevate your content from being just “discoverable” to “unmissable.” With evolving SEO strategies and a focus on delivering unmatched value, you’ll ensure your content shines through.
Here are a few modern SEO best practices you can’t ignore:
- Quality Over Quantity
It’s better to have a handful of well-researched, high-quality articles than piles of mediocre ones. Depth and value trump volume. - Intent is Key
Understand the search intent of your audience. Are they looking for information, or are they ready to purchase? Crafting content that aligns with their intent boosts your SEO strength. - Mobile-First Mindset
With a significant chunk of searches now happening on mobile, ensure your content is optimized for mobile devices, from speed to display. - Backlinks Matter, but Relevance Matters More
Earning backlinks is essential, but it’s more crucial to get them from authoritative and relevant sites.
Let’s talk a bit about Drift to get a glimpse into what masterful SEO looks like. They’re connecting businesses with their customers while owning the latest SEO practices. Take a look at their article on third-party cookies, for example.
The piece isn’t just any write-up. It’s a masterclass in SEO. They’ve managed to merge valuable insights with SEO optimization seamlessly. Instead of pushing jargon-filled content, they’re presenting a comprehensive, easy-to-understand piece, all while staying on top of the SEO game.
Bring (Real) Science to the Table
In an age where “fake news” trends faster than facts, standing out as a beacon of truth isn’t just good practice – it’s human decency. While speculations and opinions might grab eyeballs momentarily, it’s real, hard facts that cultivate trust and build lasting relationships.
Stepping into the arena with science-backed information does two important things:
- Amplifying Trustworthiness
Your audience knows they aren’t being led astray. Every statement, every claim has the weight of truth behind it. - Becoming The Go-To Source
When your content is backed by facts, you aren’t just another voice in the crowd. You become the authority, the first stop for credible information in your industry.
With that in mind, the next time you pen down content, don’t just rely on hearsay. Dig deep, validate facts, and present them with clarity. Your audience doesn’t just want information – they want the truth. And delivering that will set you leagues apart.
Take a peek at Transparent Labs, for instance. In the highly competitive world of sports supplements, where every brand claims to be the best, they’ve made an impactful mark.
Their “What Is the Best Creatine Supplement?” post doesn’t just pull claims out of thin air. Instead, it substantiates proven facts. With content penned by a medical professional and sprinkled with scientific notations, they’re promoting their brand and products while educating with integrity.
Focus on Reader Needs Over Making Sales
When dealing with content marketing, it’s easy to get lost in the appeal of metrics, conversions, and ROI. But at its heart, content isn’t about selling but about serving. And when you serve well, the sales follow.
Understanding and empathizing with your readers’ needs and challenges should be the guiding force behind every piece of content you produce. While it’s tempting to push a product or service at every turn, this can easily alienate your audience.
The trick lies in striking the right balance:
- Put quality first.
Prioritize content that offers genuine value. Answer those burning questions, provide solutions to common pain points, or simply offer insights that resonate. - Mention products in a subtle way.
It’s okay to weave in your product or service, but do it with finesse. The focus should remain on aiding the reader, with the product mention acting as a natural, helpful addition.
So, always remember that in the pursuit of conversions, you mustn’t lose sight of compassion. When your content is genuinely centered around reader needs, trust is built, and sales organically follow.
Take, for instance, Evernote. As a brand offering note-taking and organization tools, they could easily churn out content centered solely around their product features.
But take a closer look at their blog, and you’ll see a treasure trove of productivity tips, organization hacks, and insights on work-life balance.
One example is their post, “10 Tips to Boost Your Writing Productivity.” While Evernote subtly integrates its tools within this article, the primary goal is evident: to genuinely help writers streamline their work.
Don’t Force Your Readers to Read
Picture this: You’ve just landed on an intriguing article, but as you scroll, it feels like an endless wall of text, daunting and overwhelming. We’ve all been there, right?
The truth is, not everyone has the luxury to delve deep into long reads. So, it’s high time to diversify your content arsenal.
What you need to do is simply embrace a multi-dimensional approach:
- Videos
They’re engaging, visually stimulating, and can explain complex topics in a digestible format. Plus, they’re shareable – a bonus for expanding reach. - Infographics
These are perfect for condensing vast data into eye-catching visuals. They cater to visual learners and are excellent for quick insights without delving into heaps of text. - Podcasts
Not everyone has the time to sit and read, but they might have time to listen. Podcast interviews can offer deep dives into topics in an accessible, on-the-go format.
Note that when playing with these formats, versatility is key. By mixing them up and catering to diverse consumption preferences, you’re reaching a wider audience and resonating with them at the same time.
Let’s check out some pros in action:
Medical Alert Buyer’s Guide, a website that reviews medical alert systems, nails this approach. Their “Medical Alert System Discounts for AARP Members” post is quite comprehensive, but they don’t rely on text alone.
By featuring videos for various products, they cater to readers who prefer watching over reading, making the content versatile and engaging.
Then there’s Oberlo, a dropshipping app for Shopify. A glance at their “10 Branding Statistics You Need to Know,” and you’re met with beautifully crafted infographics. And they aren’t just pretty visuals. They enhance understanding, make statistics pop, and offer readers a quick snapshot of the info without trawling through paragraphs.
Get Comfortable with Long-Form Content
In a world of bite-sized tweets and fleeting tiktoks, one might wonder: does long-form content still have a place? The answer is, and always will be, a resounding yes.
We’re not referring to churning out words here, though. We’re talking about depth, detail, and delivering unparalleled value.
That’s because length is not about fluff but about value. Dive deep, cover every angle, and always keep the reader’s experience at the forefront. In the realm of content, sometimes the journey, especially the detailed ones, offers the most memorable adventures.
Here’s why diving deep matters:
- Authority and trust
Comprehensive content signals that you’ve done your homework. Readers perceive you as a credible source of knowledge in your niche. - SEO boost
Long-form content often ranks better in search engines. It offers more opportunities for keyword integration, backlinks, and engagement metrics that search engines love. - Engagement
Readers spend more time on your site. This isn’t just good for SEO. It builds a stronger relationship with your audience too. - Evergreen value
Detailed content often remains relevant for longer, becoming a constant traffic magnet.
The key to nailing long-form content lies in making it reader-friendly. Think clear headings, engaging visuals, logical flow, and actionable takeaways.
We’ll take a look at Going here. This platform for cheap flights and deals has a guide called “How to Use Google Flights to Find Cheap Flights.” The post isn’t just a short-lived overview – it’s a masterclass on thorough guidance.
They haven’t just scratched the surface; they’ve dug deep, offering readers step-by-step insights, tips, and tricks. But it never feels overwhelming. The piece is broken down into digestible sections, peppered with visuals and real-life examples, making it a go-to resource for travelers.
Publish Evergreen Content
Imagine planting a tree in the vast forest of digital content that remains lush and green year-round. That’s how evergreen content works – a timeless pillar that continues to offer value, attract traffic, and boost your brand’s authority long after its publication date.
Where does the magic of evergreen content lay?
- Consistent traffic
Unlike time-sensitive pieces, evergreen content keeps pulling in readers, becoming a steady source of organic traffic. - Credibility boost
Evergreen content establishes your brand as a knowledge powerhouse, cementing your place as an industry authority. - Cost-efficiency
Instead of continually creating new content, you can periodically update your evergreen pieces, making it a sustainable content strategy. - Higher engagement
Readers appreciate content that stands the test of time. They’re more likely to share, comment, and engage with evergreen pieces.
When creating evergreen content, make sure to go by the golden rules:
- Choose timeless topics
Pick subjects that won’t lose relevance quickly. - Stay updated
Evergreen doesn’t mean set it and forget it. Periodically refresh the content to keep it current and valuable. - Dive deep
Comprehensive coverage ensures the content remains a go-to resource for readers on the topic.
Startup Resources, a digital depository of startup tools, is a great example of this tactic. Their “Best Amazon Repricer Tools to Use in 2023 (and Beyond)” is a classic evergreen gem.
It addresses a continuous need for Amazon sellers. Including “and Beyond” in the title hints at its enduring value. While the core content remains invaluable, the article can be updated with new tools or changes, ensuring it remains a top resource year after year.
Generate Traffic with Social Media
We all adore those prestigious top spots on Google, but in reality, securing a rank isn’t always in the cards. That’s where the power of social media swoops in.
Sharing content on social platforms allows you to infuse more brand personality and cultivate a deeper bond with your audience.
Think of platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter as bustling marketplaces, brimming with potential readers eagerly waiting to discover your content.
They boast billions of active users. By sharing content there, you’re casting a much wider net. And the comments, shares, and likes provide real-time insights into how your content is resonating.
With ads and boosted posts, you can target specific demographics, ensuring your content lands in front of the right eyes.
But it’s not just about posting. You need to ensure your content aligns with the voice and tone you’ve cultivated on your social platforms. You should engage with your audience as well. Pose questions, stir discussions, and encourage feedback.
Here’s a standout example: Bubble, a software design platform. While Bubble offers an array of design solutions, their social media game is equally strong.
They consistently share tips, tricks, and design inspirations that align with their brand voice, but they also sprinkle in links to their deeper, more detailed blog content.
Leverage Influencer Partnerships for Authentic Content Creation
Brands looking to elevate their content marketing game should consider building partnerships with influencers and content creators.
These collaborations enable brands to tap into the influencers’ creativity and their established audience base.
By working with creators who align with the brand’s values and aesthetic, companies can produce authentic, engaging content that resonates more deeply with their target audience.
These influencers can provide unique perspectives and fresh content styles, making the brand’s content more diverse and appealing. Moreover, such partnerships often lead to user-generated content, which tends to be perceived as more trustworthy and relatable by the audience.
Find out how Narrato‘s customers are saving 100s of resource hours using AI in content creation, in this interview with founder, Sophia Solanki.
Final Thoughts
Armed with these eight tactics, you’ve got a roadmap to stand out and captivate your audience. Just keep in mind that it’s about offering value, understanding your audience, and being adaptable in your strategies.
With passion, persistence, and a touch of creativity, you’re destined to elevate your brand and make a lasting mark. That’s the way to create content that resonates.