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Thursday, July 11, 2013

Is It Really All About Content?

Thursday, July 11, 2013


There has been a lot of discussion lately about the importance of content and content marketing.  Since Google made their last algorithm change, more and more articles and blog posts are lauding the importance of developing unique content for the web.  But does the story of content development end there?

Based on recent experiments by The Marketing Blog, it looks like theres more to the idea of original content than meets the eye. Two factors in particular weigh into the content discussion.  They are; influence and engagement.  Last year Google rolled out the rel="author" tag and its gained wide acceptance.  Do you think they are providing extra juice to content published by influential voices in a given industry?  You bet. 

In addition to providing higher rankings to content produced by influencers, you can rest assure they are also providing additional weight to content that is widely shared among social networks and other online communities.  After all, Google's likely more interested in what individuals (especially influential ones), communities, and social networks have to say about digital content than any other type of source.

What this means for you

Depending on your role, you may want to consider how best to leverage the new opportunities inherent in a social world.  Guest posts from authoritative sources, engaging content that is designed for optimal shareability, and engaging with social networks can all have a dramatic impact on your website and website rankings.

Keep in mind however that the end goal isn't just for purposes of search engine optimization but rather building brand and generating leads for your business.  If you rank number one for a keyword or keyword phrase that no one searches on, you haven't accomplished anything.  focus on results if you want to make the most of this new post-Penguin 2.0 digital world.

The best place to start with any type of content marketing campaign is with specific goals and objectives.  What is your end goal?  Can a content marketing plan help you get there?  Probably but you need to begin with the end in mind.  I've spoken with a lot of marketing executives but many don't have a clear understanding or picture of what success looks like.  Define it for yourself and you'll be much more successful with your content marketing initiatives.

What I like about content

The one true benefit that seems to be emerging from this new world of content generation is that of creating value for your audience.  No one likes being sold... they do however like being engaged.  The most productive way to engage your audience is by giving them what they want, creating value, and getting things done in a way that excites and delights them.

Marketing to customers is no longer about selling "buy me" emails but rather engaging content that can positively engage and motivate them - building a relationship.  And a meaningful one at that.  The best place to start is with a deep understand of your customer.  What motivates them?  What do they want?  By creating persona's of your target audience you can fully understand the best content to produce and how to deliver it.

Always begin with an understanding of your customer and have the end goal in mind.  When you do, you stand a pretty good chance of succeeding in your content marketing goals.  Put in place a measurable plan and you're home free.

Please share your content marketing successes (and failures) with us on the Marketing Blog!


6 comments :

Kool Design Maker said...

After Google Panda and Penguin updates SEO is all about quality work including quality content, quality backlinks and quality websites. In this scenario content is the real king, fresh and user-friendly content is the key of success. Your shared points are very important and effective to understand the importance and technicalities of content. Which is the essential thing in online business.

Steve said...

This is definitely correct, but what worries me is things like guest blogging and posting will soon be an obsolete form of practice for authorship, so how could we possibly improve our authorship without a REAL blog site?

Unknown said...

This was a really wonderful post. Thank you for your provided information. add your url to business listing

Jhon Perker said...

Contents keep the internet buzzing & great content is that gives your brand something to start a discussion with your consumers beyond complaints & challenges, complements or queries. If you would be able to produce & share value added, engaging contents, your consumers will be more likely to be remained your consumers and create chances of replicating more potential customers. Crafting an intelligent content marketing strategy will enhance your consumers’ overall experience. Content Marketing has come up with stronger customer relationship, outstanding online credibility, educated & empowered customers.

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Gautam Biswas said...

After the updating of Panda 2.0 Google is giving importance the authority websites because the content of the authority website is informative and truth-worthy.

Few days ago i heard a rumor that Google will cancel page rank and they will give the priority to the best content.


So ...

"Content is always king"


Regards,
Gautam

Free marketing software said...

In SEO Content is king so if u want your website perform well in all search engine so write well and unique content for your website or blog so its crawl well in search engine and also this is very beneficial for affiliate marketing so Keep It up Buddy!!!

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