The Ultimate Guide to Content Creation
Whether you’re a brand, social media manager, or budding creator, we’re sharing our ultimate guide to content creation, with the tools and strategies you need to get started.
What is Content Creation?
Content creation is the process of planning and creating content, typically on social media or another online platform.
It can involve research, writing, photography (or videography), editing, graphic design — and typically, a whole lot of creativity.
If the goal is to provide information, inspiration, or entertainment — it’s good ol’ content creation.
That means a content creator – or a creator — is simply someone who creates, no matter where or how many followers they have.
You'll see many different types of content creation online. Here are a few of the most common.
- Social Media Content Creation
- Long-form Video Content
- Blogs
- Podcasts
How to Get Started with Content Creation
We’ve all seen polished creators posting the perfect TikTok transitions and brand ambassadors selling products with ease.
There are some great creators out there – which makes the idea of starting content creation for yourself even more overwhelming.
The best place to start? Exactly where you are.
When you start, you won’t be perfect. Experimenting and trying new things will help you find your unique style and build your skills.
Start by creating content around something you’re really passionate about. From photography to comic books, there are people out there who will care about the things you do.
Of course, there are some things you can try to make your content creation journey just a little bit easier.
Making a Content Creation Strategy in 8 Easy Steps
Ready to start creating? Here’s how to master content creation in eight easy steps:
1. Set SMART Goals
2. Do Your Research
3. Build Your Toolbox
4. Brainstorm Content Pillars
5. Create & Edit Your Content
6. Schedule & Post Your Content
7. Analyze Your Results
8. Try It All Again!
Step #1: Set SMART Goals
Setting social media goals is the foundation on which your content creation strategy will be built.
It'll inform the type of content you create, the cadence, and define your "why."
If you’re a creator, you might be looking to improve engagement. If you’re a brand, generating leads may be top of mind. But in order to drive success, your goals need to be SMART:
Specific
Measurable
Achievable
Relevant
Timely
Step #2: Do Your Research
The next step to content creation? Stop, drop, and research.
Scroll your feed and take note of the type of content (from other accounts) that generally produces a lot of views or comments.
Look for similarities and gaps within your own content strategy — and see where you can put your own spin on what you find.
TIP: If you don't know where to start, consider what you love to engage with — which creators (or brands) do you follow?
Step #3: Build Your Toolbox
The right tools can make all the difference in streamlining your ability to create scroll-stopping, consistent content.
And from educational resources to editing apps to scheduling tools, there are tons to choose from.
Step #4: Brainstorm Content Pillars
Remember that research we did earlier? It’s time to put your brainstorming hat on and get to defining your content pillars.
With content pillars, you'll have a clear guideline for consistently creating posts (and writing captions!) rather than scrambling at the last minute.
But what happens when you’ve hit a creative wall and are short on ideas?
Step #5: Create & Edit Your Content
You’ve completed all the necessary steps and alas, it’s finally time to create your content!
Whether you’re assigning tasks to your team or bringing your vision to life solo, take the time to draft, review, and re-film (or re-write) if you need to.
Once your content is up to par, congrats — the hard part is officially over.
Step #6: Schedule & Post Your Content
The sixth and final step is to share your shiny piece of content with the world.
If it’s headed to your socials, using a social media scheduler to plan and post your content is the best way to save time, stay organized, and be consistent.
Step #7: Analyze Your Results
By reviewing your insights on a weekly (and monthly) basis, you'll see how your content is resonating and whether you're tracking towards your goals. For blog and website traffic, keep an eye on your Google Analytics dashboard.
Step #8: Try It All Again!
Congratulations – you’ve just executed your first content creation strategy!
One of the best things about content creation is how dynamic it is. Things are always changing and so should your content.
What pieces of content drove the most engagement? What did your followers value most? What surprised you that you’re excited to try again?
Challenge yourself to try something new with your next strategy.
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