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17 Types of Content That Will Drive More Traffic
Content marketing is a multi-faceted strategy that goes beyond simply writing blogs. While starting a blog is a great first step in content marketing, there are many more advanced content types that can take your efforts to the next level.
Once your blog is up and running smoothly, consider incorporating new and diverse content to elevate your marketing game.
I can assure you that you’ll notice significant changes – increased traffic, targeted visitors, improved conversion rates, and enhanced SEO results. So, let’s explore some advanced content options that can propel your content marketing journey to new heights.
Best Content Marketing Tools
Table of Contents
17 Content Types that will drive Traffic to your Blog
Infographics:
Visual storytelling is a powerful tool in content marketing. Infographics present complex information in a visually appealing and easily digestible format. They have the potential to go viral and attract a broader audience.
Video Content:
Videos are highly engaging and can convey your message in a more dynamic and interactive manner. Create explainer videos, product demos, or customer testimonials to captivate your audience.
E-books and Whitepapers:
Establish your authority in your industry by publishing in-depth e-books and whitepapers. These comprehensive pieces of content can showcase your expertise and provide valuable insights to your audience.
Webinars and Podcasts:
Hosting webinars and podcasts allows you to connect with your audience in real-time. These interactive formats enable you to address their queries directly and build stronger relationships.
User-Generated Content (UGC):
Encourage your audience to create content for you. UGC, such as customer reviews, testimonials, and social media posts, adds authenticity and builds trust in your brand.
Interactive Quizzes and Polls:
Engage your audience by offering quizzes and polls related to your industry or products. This not only entertains your visitors but also provides valuable data for market research.
Case Studies:
Share success stories and case studies of how your products or services have benefited your customers. Real-life examples add credibility to your brand and demonstrate your value.
Email Newsletters:
Cultivate a loyal subscriber base through email newsletters. Provide valuable content, exclusive offers, and updates to keep your audience informed and engaged.
Guest Posts:
Collaborate with industry influencers and experts to publish guest posts on your blog or contribute to others’ blogs. This can expand your reach and establish valuable connections.
Long-Form Content:
In addition to your regular blog posts, consider creating long-form content that delves deep into a specific topic. Comprehensive guides and tutorials can position you as a thought leader.
Before we delve into the exciting world of content that will boost your website traffic, there are a few essential points to keep in mind. You don’t have to try every single example listed here. Different types of content work for different brands in unique ways. If you feel that a particular content type won’t serve your purpose, no worries. This list isn’t about rigid must-haves; it’s all about the possibilities.
Don’t be hesitant to explore new avenues. Some people shy away from trying new content types, fearing that it might be too time-consuming or challenging. While I understand your concerns, I encourage you to give it a shot anyway. For instance, if you’re considering video content, you don’t need fancy equipment right away. Your iPhone and a YouTube account can be a great starting point. Start small and gradually build your way up.
To get started, pick one content type from this list and schedule it into your content marketing plan. Having a well-structured editorial calendar will help you stay organized and committed to trying out new content ideas. If you don’t plan for it, chances are you might not get around to it. So, challenge yourself to embrace one of these content types and give it a go within the next four weeks.
Remember, this list is not exhaustive, and you should focus more on the ideas behind the content rather than just the format. The possibilities for content creation are limitless. In fact, you might even come up with your own unique content type. So, let’s kickstart this exciting journey of exploring new content ideas and making your website stand out from the crowd. Get ready to witness the transformation!
The power of infographics lies in their ability to present complex information or data in a visually appealing manner. By combining information with graphics, infographics become a captivating way to share knowledge. It’s no wonder that they are highly shared and loved by audiences across the web. Studies have shown that infographics are liked and shared up to three times more than other types of content on social media, giving them incredible viral potential.
If you don’t have the skills to create an infographic, don’t worry. You can tap into your professional network and collaborate with a graphic designer who specializes in infographics. Alternatively, you can use services like Visual.ly, which offer infographic creation starting at around $1,000. It may be an investment, but the impact can be well worth it.
The versatility of infographics is what makes them so popular. They can effectively communicate almost any idea or concept, especially when backed by data, research, statistics, or findings. Whether you want to present survey results, market trends, or informative guides, an infographic can do the job with flair.
Keep in mind that the infographics landscape has evolved. In the past, infographics could go viral just by virtue of being an infographic. However, today, with everyone creating infographics, it takes more effort to stand out. To make your infographic shareable, focus on making it really good. Invest in compelling visuals, clear messaging, and engaging content.
For an added twist, consider creating a gifographic. Gifographics follow the infographic model but incorporate animated gifs instead of static images. This dynamic format can add an extra layer of interest and interactivity to your content, making it even more shareable.
While infographics can be a bit on the pricey side, the potential benefits they offer are well worth considering. They are a visually explosive way to get your information out there, making a lasting impact on your audience and increasing your chances of going viral. So, if you want to make a memorable impression and communicate your message effectively, infographics are the way to go.
The power of memes is undeniable. They’re easy to create, they go viral, and most importantly, they bring a smile to people’s faces. Memes are all about humor, and that’s what makes them so popular. People love to laugh, share, and enjoy the wit behind these humorous creations.
Creating memes is a breeze, and you don’t need to be a graphic designer to do it. Websites like Meme Generator and Quick Meme offer user-friendly tools that allow you to add your own text to popular meme images. So, if you have a funny idea or a witty thought, turn it into a meme and share it with the world.
While memes may not be the ideal content for your blog, they are perfect for social media platforms. Twitter, Stumbleupon, Pinterest, Reddit, and especially Tumblr are great places to unleash your meme creations and watch them spread like wildfire.
The beauty of memes lies in their adaptability. No matter what niche you’re in, memes can be tailored to suit your content. So, don’t hesitate to use them to add some humor and personality to your brand.
However, it’s crucial to use memes wisely and in moderation. Overusing them can diminish the value of your message or brand. Memes are just a fun addition to your content strategy, not a replacement for meaningful and substantial content.
So, when inspiration strikes or you’re in the mood for some fun, go ahead and create a meme. Share it with your audience and enjoy the laughter it brings. Memes may be light-hearted, but they hold the power to bring joy and connect with your audience on a more personal level. Embrace the meme culture, but always keep your main content focused and valuable.
When it comes to videos, the possibilities are endless. There are so many different types of videos that we could dedicate an entire post just to list them all. But regardless of the type, a successful video has one common goal – to convey a message in a concise and memorable manner. When done right, a video can be incredibly persuasive, and the results can be astonishing. Take, for example, the Crazy Egg video, which rakes in an impressive $21k every month!
So, how can you create such compelling videos that leave a lasting impact on your audience? It all starts with nailing the script. Whether you’re making an office tour video, an explainer video, or even a creative music video (yes, it’s been done!), the words you choose are as important as the visuals. Crafting a compelling and engaging script is key to grabbing your viewers’ attention and keeping them hooked till the end.
Once you have your masterpiece ready, it’s time to showcase it to the world. YouTube and Vimeo are excellent platforms to share your videos. Besides gaining exposure and reaching a wider audience, posting your videos on these platforms can boost your SEO efforts and improve your video’s visibility in search results.
However, it’s essential to keep some factors in mind while venturing into the world of videos. Firstly, creating high-quality videos may come with a price tag. While you can start small, investing in a video specialist or a camera crew can be a significant cost. But remember, quality videos often yield higher returns in the long run.
Moreover, keep your videos concise and to the point. People have short attention spans, and you don’t want to lose them midway through a lengthy video. Aim for a video length of around two to three minutes – it’s a sweet spot that maintains viewers’ interest while delivering your message effectively.
So, whether you’re embarking on a product explainer video or a creative venture, ensure your script is captivating, utilize platforms like YouTube and Vimeo to share your creations, and keep your videos short and engaging. With the right approach, your videos can leave a lasting impression on your audience and contribute to your overall success. Happy video making!
Creating an exceptional guide is like crafting an epic blog post – a comprehensive and captivating piece of content that goes above and beyond the usual blog articles. In my experience, the Advanced Guide series has been immensely popular, thanks to its visually appealing presentation and in-depth exploration of topics.
To embark on creating a successful guide, you need three key elements: a skilled writer, a talented designer, and a compelling idea. The writer must produce top-tier content, delving deep into the subject matter. The designer’s role is to present that content in an attractive and engaging way, making it visually appealing and easy to digest. Lastly, the idea behind the guide should align with your audience’s interests and needs, ensuring that they find value in it.
Guides have a unique advantage as they can serve as excellent lead magnets for collecting email addresses. By offering an awesome guide in exchange for email registration, you entice your audience to engage with your content and build a relationship with them.
Visual appeal is crucial for a guide’s success. Partnering with a capable designer will ensure that your guide looks professional and visually stunning. Remember, readability is not just about great writing; it also hinges on layout and presentation.
Consider presenting your guide as a downloadable PDF, providing convenience for your audience to access and refer back to it whenever they need.
In conclusion, creating a compelling guide is a powerful way to engage your audience and offer them valuable insights. A combination of excellent writing, appealing design, and a well-researched idea will make your guide a hit among your audience, leaving a lasting impact and fostering a strong connection with your readers.
Are you eager to establish yourself as a thought leader in your niche? One effective way to achieve this is through engaging book reviews. By sharing your insights on books that resonate with your audience, you can position yourself as a trusted authority while providing valuable content. Let’s explore a simple 7-point format that will help you craft compelling book reviews and captivate your readers.
- Introduce the Book: In just a few sentences, introduce the book’s title and provide a brief overview of its content. Set the stage for your readers by giving them a glimpse of what to expect from your review.
- Introduce the Author: Next, offer a brief introduction to the author. Share some relevant details about their background and expertise, connecting them to the book’s subject matter.
- Summarize the Book’s Major Points: Concisely outline the book’s main ideas and key takeaways. Present each point in 1-3 sentences, ensuring that your readers get a comprehensive understanding of the book’s central themes.
- Share What You Liked in the Book: Highlight the aspects of the book that resonated with you. Whether it’s the author’s writing style, insightful anecdotes, or practical tips, share the elements that made a positive impact on your reading experience.
- Share What You Didn’t Like About the Book: Be honest and transparent in your review. If there were any aspects of the book that didn’t quite hit the mark for you, express them in a constructive manner. Remember, even critical feedback can add value to your review.
- Recommend it (or not) to Your Readers: Based on your assessment, offer your recommendation to your readers. Let them know whether the book is a must-read or if it’s better suited for a specific audience. Be clear in your stance to guide your readers’ decisions.
- Provide a Call to Action: Wrap up your review with a strong call to action. Encourage your readers to explore the book further by providing a direct link to where they can find it. This helps to drive engagement and facilitates easy access to the book.
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Know Your Audience: Ensure that your readership consists of individuals who have an interest in reading books. Tailor your reviews to appeal to their specific preferences and interests.
- Review New Releases or Pre-Releases: Consider reviewing newly released or pre-released books whenever possible. This not only keeps your content fresh and relevant but also positions you as an informed thought leader.
- Conduct Author Interviews: If the opportunity arises, conduct interviews with authors of the books you review. This adds a personal touch to your content and offers valuable insights straight from the source.
With this 7-point format in your arsenal, you are well-equipped to create compelling book reviews that engage your audience and solidify your position as a thought leader. So, don your reviewer’s hat and embark on your journey to inspire, inform, and connect through the world of books!
Blogging has always been about delivering carefully researched and informative content, but what if we told you there’s another style that can bring a whole new level of engagement? Enter the world of ranting and opinions. This unique approach adds a strong and expressive tone to your posts, setting them apart from the usual. While it may seem unconventional, embracing this style can be a game-changer in attracting readers and encouraging shares.
So, how do you go about it? Occasionally, take on a hot topic or a significant industry change and deliver a strong first-person take. Express your opinion passionately and boldly. I did this when addressing the controversial topic of guest blogging, spurred by Matt Cutts’ announcement. By tackling popular subjects, you can tap into increased search potential and shareability, drawing more eyes to your content.
However, it’s crucial to strike a balance. Rant-style posts should not be a daily occurrence. Overdoing it can make you come across as obnoxious or overly opinionated. Use this style with caution, and remember to be civil and respectful. Ranting doesn’t mean being angry or aggressive. Instead, it’s an opportunity to passionately share your thoughts while maintaining a level of humility.
When adopting this style, make it clear to your readers that this is your personal take and opinion. Own your words and be transparent about your position. This authenticity will resonate with your audience, creating a deeper connection between you and your readers.
Incorporating the power of ranting into your blogging arsenal can set your content apart and take your engagement to new heights. Just remember, while it’s a potent tool, use it wisely and responsibly to keep your audience coming back for more.
Product reviews can be a powerful tool for establishing authority and leadership in your industry. As a blogger or content creator, you have the opportunity to engage with key developers, manufacturers, or service providers and gain recognition and respect by sharing your experiences with their products. But not all product reviews are created equal. To make your reviews stand out and truly resonate with your audience, follow these key steps and take your product reviews to the next level.
- Introduce the Product and Producer
Start your review by introducing the product and the producer behind it. Provide some background information on the product’s purpose and its target audience. A well-informed introduction sets the stage for an in-depth review.
- Describe the Product
Offer a detailed description of the product, highlighting its features, functionalities, and unique selling points. Include any relevant specifications that your audience may find useful.
- Share What You Like
Now comes the exciting part – share what you like about the product. Speak from your own experience and be specific. Did the product exceed your expectations? Highlight its strengths and how it has made a positive impact on your life or business.
- Share What You Don’t Like
Be honest and transparent about any shortcomings or areas for improvement. Your audience values authenticity, and knowing the product’s limitations will help them make informed decisions.
- Provide Your Recommendation
After a thorough analysis, offer your recommendation. Does the product meet its promises and provide value for money? Let your audience know whether you would personally endorse it.
- Provide a Call to Action
End your review with a clear call to action. Encourage your audience to try the product for themselves or explore further by visiting the producer’s website.
Tips for Crafting Exceptional Product Reviews
To create product reviews that truly stand out, consider the following tips:
- Invest in the Product
To provide genuine and credible reviews, actually buy and use the product. This hands-on experience will enable you to give insights that other reviews may lack.
- Conduct Meaningful Tests
To truly evaluate the product’s performance, consider conducting tests that are relevant to your audience’s needs. Whether it’s testing a blender’s ability to blend frozen fruit into a smoothie or measuring the efficiency of a marketing tool, show your audience how the product fares under real-world scenarios.
- Quantify and Compare Results
Take the extra step of quantifying and comparing the results of your tests. This allows your audience to easily understand and compare the performance of different products.
- Embrace Video Content
If possible, incorporate video components into your product reviews. Videos provide a hands-on experience that resonates with viewers and enhances the credibility of your review.
The how-to guide has emerged as a crowd favorite in my niche, and it’s no wonder why. On my blog, I frequently delve into crafting comprehensive how-to articles. Their immense appeal lies in the long tail search potential they offer, with popular query introductions like “How to…” and “How do I…?” driving significant traffic.
So, let’s break down the process of creating an effective how-to guide:
Step 1: Identify the Common Problem To begin, pinpoint a common problem that your audience faces. Understanding their pain points is the first key to crafting a helpful how-to guide.
Step 2: Present the Solution Once you’ve identified the problem, offer a well-thought-out solution. Clearly outline how your guide will address the issue at hand.
Step 3: Dive into the Step-by-Step Process Now, it’s time to take your readers on a journey through each step of the solution. Provide detailed explanations, tips, and insights to guide them along the way.
Step 4: Summarize the Discussion As you progress through the steps, summarize the key takeaways to reinforce the understanding of your readers.
Step 5: Conclude with a Bang Conclude your how-to guide with a strong ending. Recap the problem, the solution, and the main benefits your readers will gain from following your guide.
With endless possibilities for crafting how-to articles, think of a topic that resonates with your daily routine. Whether it’s industry-specific or more general, like “How to reply to every email in one minute or less” or “How to optimize your robots.txt for search engines,” make sure it aligns with your audience’s interests.
Remember, the more thorough and visually appealing your explanation is, the better. Consider incorporating diagrams, videos, and pictures to enhance the overall experience of your how-to blog. These elements can make the journey even more engaging and impactful for your readers.
9. Lists
Lists have an irresistible allure, capturing our attention and stimulating our curiosity. It’s safe to say that you’ll come across at least one list-based article today, whether it’s “5 Security Breaches You Need to Know About” or “17 Ways to Rank Higher in Google in One Month.” In fact, you’re currently engrossed in an article titled “15 Types.” From the ancient Ten Commandments to the modern compilation of everything, numbered ideas have stood the test of time and continue to captivate audiences. Embracing this content format is a surefire way to engage your readers. Even well-known magazines leverage the list appeal to boost their sales.
How to Create Your Captivating List First things first, select a topic that intrigues you, and then pick a number that suits your content. Voila! You’re already halfway there to crafting an attention-grabbing list. Take, for instance, this post on “7 Ways to Increase Your Rankings Without Leveraging Content Marketing.” With a clear topic and a specific number, your list is set to shine.
Now, let’s outline the simple format to follow:
- Introduction: Hook your readers with a compelling introduction that sets the tone for your list. Explain the significance of the topic and pique their interest in what’s to come.
- List Your Points: Dive into your list, providing concise yet detailed insights for each point. The more comprehensive your list, the more value it will bring to your readers.
- Conclusion: Summarize your key points and reinforce the importance of your topic. Leave your readers with a memorable takeaway that lingers in their minds.
A few tips to keep in mind as you embark on your list-making journey:
- Detail Matters: The devil is in the details. Ensure each point on your list is rich with information and actionable tips. This will make your list truly valuable to your audience.
- Embrace Length: Don’t shy away from longer lists. As long as the content remains relevant and engaging, your readers will appreciate the comprehensive coverage.
- The Magic Number: There’s no magical number for an exceptional list. Odd numbers, round numbers, or any numerical sequence, they all have the potential to captivate your readers. What matters most is the quality of the content you deliver.
10. Link pages
Creating a link page, also known as a link roundup, is a simple yet effective way to share valuable resources from around the web. These link posts not only spread link love to other websites but also enhance your site’s SEO signals, establishing your authority in your industry. If you’re wondering how to create a link page, don’t worry—it’s straightforward and can be done in a few easy steps.
First, compile a list of the articles or resources you want to share. For each link, include the title of the article and hyperlink it to the source. You can also number the links to make the list more organized and user-friendly.
While listing the links is essential, adding your own blurb or introduction for each link can make your link page stand out even more. This step is not mandatory, but it’s an excellent opportunity to put your own spin on a topic or provide additional value to the discussion. If a particular post has impressed you or disappointed you, you can use your blurb to highlight your thoughts on it.
By creating a link roundup with thoughtful introductions, you showcase your expertise and thought leadership within your field. Your audience will appreciate the curated list of valuable resources, and other websites may even notice and reciprocate the link love, further enhancing your site’s SEO.
In conclusion, a link page is a powerful tool to share valuable content, support other websites, and establish your authority in your niche. By following these simple steps and adding your unique touch to each link, you can create an engaging and authoritative link roundup that your audience will love. So start curating those valuable links and watch your link page become a go-to resource for your readers.
11. Ebooks
In the vast digital realm, one thing is certain – a well-crafted e-book can be a game-changer for bloggers seeking to elevate their authority and share their expertise effectively. E-books, often in PDF format, have been valued for their wealth of knowledge and insights. However, with the sheer number of e-books flooding the market today, their perceived value has diminished. But fear not! We have a secret weapon that can set your e-book apart from the rest and attract thousands of visitors and shares.
The Idea: A Collaborative Expert E-Book
Imagine an e-book where influencers in your niche unite their wisdom to create an awe-inspiring piece of content. Each influencer contributes one page, and together, they form a powerful expert roundup. Instead of offering mere snippets of advice, they each write a chapter, sharing their unique perspectives and insights. This approach has proven to be a game-changer, as exemplified by Stoney deGeyter, who brought together 20 industry professionals to reveal their “link-building secrets.” The result? A resounding success!
The How-To: Creating Your Influencer-Packed E-Book
- Come Up with a Compelling Topic: Finding a good topic is essential, and there are plenty of resources available to help you uncover captivating ideas. Once you have the right theme, your e-book’s potential will skyrocket.
- Attract Influencers Willing to Contribute: Building relationships with influencers is the key to success here. Engage with them on social media, leave thoughtful comments on their blogs, and connect via email. Establishing meaningful connections will increase your chances of securing contributions.
- Organize, Design, and Format: Crafting a visually stunning e-book is crucial. Ensure it captures readers’ attention with captivating design and formatting. Optimize your content for both PDF and HTML formats, allowing for multimedia embedding and an enriched reading experience.
Key Considerations and Tips
- A Captivating Title: The title is your e-book’s first impression, so invest time in crafting one that draws readers in and sparks curiosity.
- Design Matters: Don’t overlook the importance of design. Colors, graphics, and formatting can elevate your e-book’s appeal and make it a joy to read.
- Offer Both PDF and HTML Versions: Providing options for PDF and HTML versions caters to different reader preferences. The HTML version enables multimedia integration, enriching the reader’s experience.
12. Case Studies
In this case study, we present a compelling narrative of how our products made a significant impact on one of our valued clients. The journey begins with a summary of the study and a sneak peek into the remarkable outcome that our solution delivered. Let’s dive into the challenges we faced and the problem our client was struggling with.
Our client, a leading company in the tech industry, was encountering difficulties in streamlining their workflow and optimizing their project management processes. They sought a solution that would enhance efficiency and elevate productivity to new heights. With a clear understanding of their needs, we embarked on providing the ideal remedy.
Our team meticulously devised a step-by-step solution that addressed each aspect of their challenges. By integrating cutting-edge technologies and tailor-made strategies, we transformed their operations into a streamlined and seamless process. Through transparent communication and thorough planning, we presented our client with a comprehensive solution that promised to revolutionize their work dynamics.
Now, let’s explore the astounding results of our solution. With our products in place, our client experienced a remarkable boost in productivity, saving valuable time and resources. Their project management became a well-oiled machine, leading to quicker project completion and higher customer satisfaction. The tangible results spoke volumes of the success of our partnership.
In conclusion, this case study is not just about marketing our products; it is a triumphant success story of transformation and growth. By adopting a personalized and innovative approach, we helped our client overcome their challenges and achieve outstanding results. We invite you to explore the potential of our products and experience your own success story. Together, let’s embark on a journey of excellence and accomplishment.
Podcasts, once a popular trend, still remain a powerful and engaging form of content. Their widespread accessibility and ease of creation make them an ideal medium to connect with audiences. Whether your listeners tune in during their commute or workout sessions, podcasts offer a unique opportunity to spread your message effectively.
So, how can you get started with creating a podcast? It’s surprisingly simple! All you need is a good-quality microphone and some basic technical knowledge to get things rolling.
However, remember that a successful podcast doesn’t stand alone. Just like any other media publication, it’s essential to accompany your podcast with additional content. For instance, you can announce each episode on your blog and initiate a discussion around it. Share exciting tidbits about new podcast releases and provide an overview of the episode’s topic to pique your audience’s interest. To boost SEO value, consider publishing the transcript of your podcast as well.
By incorporating these strategies, you can ensure that your podcast not only reaches a wider audience but also complements your overall content strategy. So, seize the opportunity to engage your listeners and leave a lasting impact through the power of podcasting.
14. Interviews
In every industry, there are trailblazers who inspire awe and admiration among their peers. Conducting an interview with such a leader not only elevates your reputation but also attracts a massive influx of traffic to your platform. Interviews offer a rare opportunity to capture unique insights and perspectives that nobody else has access to, giving you a distinct edge in the field.
So, how can you land that exclusive interview and make the most of it? Let’s dive into a proven format that guarantees a captivating and informative conversation:
Step 1: Extend a Warm Invitation The first step is to invite the esteemed interviewee and schedule a suitable time for the talk. When announcing the upcoming interview, make sure to introduce the guest in a way that generates excitement and anticipation among your audience. Tease the expertise and valuable insights they will bring to the table.
Step 2: The Interview Begins As the interview kicks off, start with an engaging question that sets the tone for the discussion. Allow the interviewee to share their knowledge and experiences freely. A well-prepared list of questions will guide the conversation and ensure you cover all the essential points.
Step 3: Unfold the Dialogue Maintain the question and answer format throughout the interview, delving deeper into intriguing points that arise during the conversation. If you’re adept at thinking on your feet, seize the opportunity to explore interesting tangents with additional questions. This adds a dynamic and authentic touch to the exchange.
Step 4: The Grand Finale As the interview draws to a close, express gratitude to the interviewee for their valuable time and contributions. It’s essential to show appreciation for their willingness to share their wisdom with your audience. Lastly, conclude with a strong call to action for your viewers or readers, encouraging them to explore more content on your platform.
Remember these key points during the interview process:
- Make sure to provide a written summary or an overview of the interview, especially if it is in audio or video format. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their preferences, can benefit from the valuable insights shared during the conversation.
- Be professional and respectful throughout the interview, creating a comfortable atmosphere that encourages open and candid responses.
- Research the interviewee’s background thoroughly to tailor your questions and demonstrate your genuine interest in their expertise.
By following this tried-and-true format for conducting interviews, you can establish yourself as a valuable source of exclusive content in your industry. Unlock the treasure trove of insights and perspectives that only a leader in the field can offer and watch your platform soar to new heights. Get ready to shine a spotlight on industry leaders through captivating interviews that leave a lasting impact on your audience.
15. Research and Data
In the dynamic digital landscape, terms like big data and machine learning have become the talk of the town. But what do they really mean for bloggers and marketers like us? Big data, in simple terms, refers to the art of analyzing vast datasets to uncover hidden insights. As we delve into the world of big data and its applications in content creation, we’ll witness how it has the potential to transform our blogs and captivate our audience like never before.
The Magic of Analyzing Big Data Analyzing hundreds of thousands or even millions of data points might seem daunting, but the magic it unlocks is unparalleled. While anyone can make basic connections, the real power lies in using big data to reveal unique and impactful findings. Gone are the days of generic SEO advice; it’s time to embrace data-driven conclusions that take your content to new heights. Imagine the value of having concrete insights backed by data, offering your readers credible advice and valuable information.
An Inspiring Example Let’s take a page from OkDork’s playbook and see how they harnessed big data to create incredible content. Back in 2014, they analyzed a staggering 100 million articles to uncover the secrets of viral content. The results were mind-blowing, offering correlations and patterns that revolutionized content creation strategies. The blog post received a flood of comments and social shares, proving the impact of data-driven content on audience engagement.
Overcoming the Challenges Sure, analyzing big data might feel like venturing into uncharted territory, but every great endeavor starts with a leap of faith. You don’t need to be a programming expert; there are two ways to create data-driven content like a pro.
Option 1 – Hire a Developer/Programmer: Collaborating with a skilled programmer can be a game-changer. By creating a custom program to analyze data, you’ll unlock a treasure trove of insights. Websites like Guru and Upwork are ideal platforms to find the right developer for your needs. Post a detailed job description, including your project goal and any existing data sources you’ve identified. This collaboration will empower you to produce exceptional content with ease.
Option 2 – Partner with Data Experts: If you’re on a tight budget or have a sizeable audience, partnering with data-rich companies can be a winning strategy. Reach out to companies already collecting the data you need, proposing a collaboration to create epic content together. Just like Noah Kagan did with BuzzSumo, this win-win approach allows you to dazzle your audience while benefiting from their data expertise.
The Path to Success Big data’s potential in content marketing is undeniable. Companies like BuzzSumo have already recognized its value, presenting data-driven insights through exciting collaborations. Don’t miss this golden opportunity to connect with data-rich companies in your industry and stand out as a content marketing visionary.
16. Become a scientist (at least for a little while…)
In the world of content creation, quality reigns supreme. Just like in scientific research, the expectation is rigorous and accurate testing to yield useful results. As creators, we strive to deliver content that reveals new information, discovered through valid tests that can benefit others in the future. You don’t need a white lab coat, but channel your inner scientist and conduct your own research.
Step #1 – Formulate a Hypothesis: Every study starts with a hypothesis, a well-crafted guess about the outcome of a specific action. Your hypothesis should take the form of “I think (action) will result in (what might happen).” Think of it as the foundation upon which your content will be built. Here are a few hypothetical examples to guide you:
- I think guest posting will boost our blog traffic by X%
- I believe I can indulge in McDonald’s meals and still lose weight (yes, it’s possible!)
- I predict that a daily morning push-up routine for a month will lead me to do 100 push-ups per day
- I hypothesize that using Procedure XYZ will grow a tomato plant in 60 days
Step #2 – Construct a Valid Experimental Setup: Take our example of eating at McDonald’s every day. You need to outline a few essential elements in your experimental setup:
- How you will track results, such as daily weigh-ins
- The specific procedure for what you will eat
- Any rules to ensure no external factors influence the results, like maintaining your usual exercise level
If relevant, you may find existing data for your experiment, although conducting a personal experiment adds credibility.
Step #3 – Run the Experiment and Analyze Results: Patience is key in this step as experiments can take months to complete. The hard work is well worth it, as it sets your content apart. Gather all your data in one place, typically a spreadsheet, and calculate the values of interest.
Step #4 – Craft Valuable Content for Your Community: Having collected and analyzed your data, it’s time to create your content. For instance, instead of simply stating “infographics worked well for me,” provide an in-depth analysis with specific numbers of visitors, backlinks, and social shares for each infographic. Offer valuable conclusions based on your results and guide your readers on how they can apply these findings. In the case of the push-up example, outline a routine to help readers develop the strength to achieve 100 push-ups per day.
By incorporating scientific principles into your content creation process, you will offer a unique and credible perspective that resonates with your audience. Your dedication to research and analysis will elevate your content above the rest, ensuring it stands out in the crowded digital landscape. So don your researcher’s cap and start experimenting to create impactful and valuable content for your community.
17. One type of content that’s more practical than the rest
In our quest to harness the full potential of content marketing, we’ve explored various types of advanced content. Now, let’s delve into a form of content that can truly elevate your business – tools. Yes, tools are more than just pieces of software; they are powerful content assets that can make a significant impact on your audience and your brand.
Consider my experience with the Quick Sprout homepage, where I introduced a web page analyzer tool. Despite its unexpected cost, the tool generated an impressive number of backlinks and drove substantial business growth, proving its worth as a solid investment. But don’t be intimidated; your tool doesn’t have to be as complex as mine to be effective. Even a simple tool that addresses a specific problem your audience faces can garner attention and yield remarkable results.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your own tool and unlock its potential for your business:
Step #1 – Find the Right Idea: Tools are problem solvers, so begin by identifying the challenges your audience encounters regularly. Make a comprehensive list of the issues they face, just like I did for SEOs, who struggled with tasks such as:
- Checking if a website was optimized for search engines
- Generating SEO reports for clients efficiently
- Consolidating evaluations of different marketing efforts, like SEO and social media
Step #2 – Develop the Tool: Creating the tool may be the most challenging part, especially if you lack coding experience. If that’s the case, consider hiring a developer. You can find skilled developers on freelancing platforms like Guru, Upwork, or Fiverr. Keep in mind that the cost of a tool can vary widely, so post a job offer without a fixed budget and request quotes from developers. This will help you determine the affordability of your project. If your initial idea turns out to be too costly, consider simplifying the tool to fit your budget.
Step #3 – Promote with Ease: Unlike regular content, promoting a tool is remarkably easy. Most online communities and forums are eager to embrace a valuable tool that solves real problems. Tools are rare and exciting, avoiding the cynicism that sometimes accompanies typical blog posts. You can leverage your tool by incorporating it into your content and introducing it to potential partners or clients. It serves as an excellent conversation starter, opening doors to new business opportunities.
Conclusion
Standing out in the world of content marketing is an absolute must for achieving success. As you’ve discovered from the list above, there’s a plethora of content options available to you. The key is to leverage various types of content to supercharge your content marketing strategy. Whether it’s a blog post, video, infographic, or podcast, each form of content has the power to captivate your audience. And when your audience is engaged, they listen, share, learn, and ultimately convert into loyal customers.
The potential that lies within your content marketing efforts is boundless. It’s the driving force that can propel your brand to new heights. Now armed with a well-crafted plan, it’s time to take action and embark on this journey. Don’t hesitate; it’s time to unleash the power of your content and make a significant impact in your industry.
So go ahead, seize the moment, and start creating exceptional content that resonates with your audience. Utilize the diverse range of content options available to you and watch as your brand gains momentum and reaches the next level of success. The world is waiting for your unique voice and perspective. Now, go out there and make your mark with compelling content that stands out from the crowd.
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