By now you probably get the picture – we place tremendous value on content.
Also, as a long over-due introduction. Everyone, meet Ben. Ben, meet everyone. Who is Ben? Simply put….he is a writer, that’s what he does. He thinks, he writes…he thinks about writing.
Ben is also our brand-spankin’ new managing partner. Yup, part owner. Why is that significant?
Well, our decision to join forces illustrates the intersection of quality content and quality digital marketing (and soon to be non-digital marketing as well).
If you view your marketing efforts as structured, effective and of quality, chances are you have found a way to create quality content. Quality content – the backbone of your quality marketing. Without it your marketing more closely resembles a jellyfish…a gelatinous blob of goo floating aimlessly.
More than just words
While writing is the primary form of content, whether it be page copy, blog posts, newsletters or articles, it is not the only form of content.
Photos, video, audio are all content and all can be very valuable to your marketing efforts. Lets take a quick look at two easy ways to get started creating content.
Photos
The fact that you can purchase a very high quality point and shoot camera for less than $200 really limits your excuses list.
Is owning a camera going to make you a photographer? No. However it will give you what you need to create and share photos.
Take some photos around your business, of people using your product. For our travel and tourism folks, take some photos of your area, of people doing things…of people having fun!
Create a Flickr account and start tagging and uploading.
Video
Much like cameras, high quality, affordable video cameras are flooding the market. From Flip to Kodak, you can find a number of cameras to help you get started.
Keep in mind, the goal is to share video content online….are we looking to create a presentation quality movie or DVD? No. You need the pros to help you with that. However, don’t allow that type of thinking prevent you from picking up a video camera and creating content.
Video testimonials, simple walk-around Scoble-esque “what are you doing” videos are great. Give your customers a behind the scenes look at your company!
Create a YouTube account, or my personal favorite, Viddler, start tagging and uploading. Simple right?
These are some simple ideas to get you started. Keep in mind that like any other component of your marketing, you must have a content strategy to go along with your overall marketing strategy.
Have a plan, create content…don’t be a jellyfish.
Tags: content marketing, Social Media