Content Creation 101: A Practical Guide for Small Businesses
We’ve all been there… We want to create really amazing and engaging content, but we just don’t know where to start. We’ve created a simple and easy content creation guide for small businesses to give you the creative kickstart you need to start – and nail – your content plans.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a content creator, or simply someone curious about creating a digital footprint in a space you’re passionate about, it is essential to understand the ins and outs of content creation. This comprehensive guide is designed to provide you with all the information you need to excel in this field.
What is Content Creation?
Content Creation is the art of crafting engaging and valuable content across various formats, such as blog articles, social media posts, videos, infographics, and more. The list can be endless.
What they all have in common though, is the content you create is all about connecting with your audience on a personal level, sparking emotions, and inspiring action.
Why should I care about my content?
Ultimately, the key to building your brand, talking about your products and/or services and sustaining an online community is the the art of consistent content creation. Otherwise, how else will your potential customers know who you are and what you do?
In the vast sea of online content, standing out requires authenticity, creativity, and relevance. Here are some reasons why:
- Brand Awareness: Creating high-quality content helps establish your brand in the market.
- Customer Engagement: Engaging content allows you to interact with your audience and increase customer retention.
- SEO Benefits: Well-optimised content can improve your website’s SEO, resulting in higher organic traffic.
How to start creating your content
01. Create a strategy – and stick to it
After gaining a basic understanding of building a strong social media presence and having a content plan in place, you can then determine the type of content to create, its frequency and define your “why.” While generating leads may be your primary focus, it is important to ensure that your goals are SMART in order to drive success.
- Specific: Include specifics to help you track the success of your content.
- Measurable: The goal has to be measured in some way. This is where your key metrics come into play.
- Achievable: Is this goal in scope? Your goals should be challenging, but still within reach.
- Relevant: Is this goal working towards achieving your larger business objectives?
- Time-sensitive: What is the timeline for this goal?
02. Do your research
Next up is research! Take a look at the content posted by other accounts within your field or industry that create really cool and engaging content. This is a great opportunity to determine how your own content strategy can stand out.
If you’re unsure where to begin, think about the creators or brands that you personally engage with and follow. Consider what you love about their content and use it as inspiration for your own unique approach.
02. Do your research
Next up is research! Take a look at the content posted by other accounts within your field or industry that create really cool and engaging content. This is a great opportunity to determine how your own content strategy can stand out.
If you’re unsure where to begin, think about the creators or brands that you personally engage with and follow. Consider what you love about their content and use it as inspiration for your own unique approach.
03. Build Your Toolbox
The right tools can make all the difference in streamlining your ability to create scroll-stopping, consistent content. You don’t need all the high-tech gadgets and fancy apps to make an impact but a few tools can make a huge difference. Some of our favourites include:
- Ring light
- Good, quality camera (your Smartphone can be it – just ensure the quality is great when you export)
- Editing apps such as CapCut
- Scheduling tools to help you plan your content calendar
04. Brainstorm Content Pillars
Content pillars are like a roadmap for consistently creating posts and writing captions. Instead of scrambling at the last minute. These content pillars will help guide your way to developing your weekly, fortnightly and monthly content – regardless of the platform you choose to share them.
Some ideas you could incorporate include:
- Brand Pillars
- Customer testimonials
- Product/Service highlights
- FAQ’s that help answer common questions
- Industry updates relevant to your business
05. Create and edit your content
You’ve completed all the necessary steps, and now it’s time to create your content. Whether you’re assigning tasks to your team or working on your own, take the time to draft, review, and revise your content as needed.
Remember, if you don’t love it, you don’t have to post it! Sometimes we need to test what works and what doesn’t – and this can often take time. Once your content is up to standard, congratulations! The hard part is officially over.
06. Schedule and post your content
The sixth and final step is to share your polished content with the world. If you plan to share it on your social media platforms, using a social media scheduler is the best way to save time, stay organised, and maintain consistency. Think about ways you can also cross post your content so you are working smarter, not harder!
07. Analyse your results
By reviewing your insights on a monthly basis, you can see how your content is resonating and track your progress toward your goals. Adjust future content plans to create more of the stuff that your audience LOVE.
For blog and website traffic, keep an eye on your Google Analytics dashboard to review whether people are finding your content and how long it’s taking them to read it.
By following these steps, you can create effective content. At Hive, we recognise that every brand has a unique story to share. Our commitment to creativity and innovation drives our content creation process, resulting in impactful content that resonates with your audience.
If you would like to explore how we can assist with your specific needs and business, or if you need help with content creation, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
