The importance of publishing relevant content cannot be understated. That’s why Bill Gates first said that “Content is king.” in 1996. He went further and stated, “Content is where I expect much of the real money will be made on the internet, just as it was in broadcasting.” Truer words have rarely been spoken. If you look at the history of the internet and where it’s going, it’s clear.
Content is in fact, king, and will remain so.
This means that you have a wonderful opportunity to do a lot with the content you publish; and it all starts with your audience.
Educates Your Audience
Content directed toward the issues and information that your audience cares about is a great way to educate them on a problem, issue, and solution. For example, if you have a business selling coaching services, the type you develop will be focused on teaching your audience about their problems, and the need for coaching as a solution to their problems.
Makes You A Thought Leader
If you study your industry well enough and publish what you’ve learned, you can become known as a thought leader once you’ve published enough content. You’ll want to publish it in all different forms; but it might be print, infographics, video, or audio. That will help spread your message far and wide so that your audience can find you.
Establishes Relationships
When you share information with your audience from the first email, blog post, social media update, or another type of interaction, it starts to establish and build a relationship with them as individuals. People don’t typically read your content online in groups. You’re reaching each person one-on-one; and due to that, it’s more personal to the person consuming your content. They start to feel as if they know you. Knowing you is the first step in the “know, like, trust” trinity.
Facilitates Customer Loyalty
When you give information to your customers about the products that you’ve created for them—even after they’ve purchased it—it will boost customer loyalty. The reason for this is that they will feel as if you care about them. You can check in with them to see how they like their purchase, send surveys to find out what can be improved, and even provide additional resources for them based on what they bought. You’ll become a hero to them; and in return they’ll be loyal to you, recommending you to their friends and colleagues.
Content also Encourages Engagement
When you share great subject matter with your audience it also encourages engagement. Invite them to respond to your blog post. Use a proper return email address for every email you send, and invite them to respond to your email messages. Ask them to come to your forums and groups on social media.
Builds Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
SEO enables search engines to find your content so that they can recommend it to their customers who are searching for your specific information. The more you follow the guidelines put out by Google with your content, the more likely they are to send your customers to consume your content.
Finally, Content Boosts Growth
When you use the right content, at the right time, in the right places, your business will grow in all the ways that matter. You’ll grow your audience, your customer base, and your revenues. This will get more eyes on you due to publishing more.
What’s more, content is a real business asset that you can continue to build on for years to come. The information that you produce and publish today will continue working for you for many tomorrows. That’s why it’s so important to have a content marketing strategy.