Working as a Content Curator on the Business Innovation site has given me a great chance to see all kinds of content up close, and even create some of my own. I’m still on my path to discover the “secret sauce” that resonates with the audience reading my work. During this time, I’ve had a front-row seat to learn what some of the best bloggers online do to make their content successful.
Not too long ago HubSpot published a blog on the 5 Habits of Highly Successful Content Creators.
I’d like to add a few of my own as well.
1. The best writers are readers, and curators too
The ideas for great content don’t come out of thin air. Bloggers are obsessed with their industry, as well as others that blend into it. When you know what’s going on, you’ll be better equipped to write content that your audience is interested in hearing.
2. Work out your writing muscle
I’m not saying you should blog every day, but if you don’t practice, you might forget how to do it. HubSpot has a useful tip: write every day or every other day. It doesn’t need to be a finished blog, but spend a bit of time jotting down some ideas and opening lines. You might not use that content right away, but it will be ready for you when you need it.
3. Don’t be afraid to be challenging and controversial
Some of the best articles on Business Innovation have had incredibly controversial titles and even more challenging content. By challenging I mean it is content that takes a hard look at the status quo, then offers up a different point of view or even an untraditional solution to the question. Obviously don’t write anything profane, but keep mind everybody loves a little drama.
4. Embrace the role of an educator
Content creators are in a unique position to offer something very special, knowledge. Many of these individuals contributing to the conversations in your industry, LoB, or interest area are experts or asking enough questions to get there soon enough. You can be that person too. Blogging gives you an excellent opportunity to share your unique point of view on certain topics. Don’t waste time writing about your product, give the reader what they’re looking for, and most of the time that’s an answer to their question.
5. Figure out what high quality content means to you
This takes trial and error. Create a few pieces all with different approaches. Then look at the metrics like page views, leads (if applicable), social shares, and comments. When you find a set of numbers you’d like to see, don’t ever stop trying to hit those benchmarks with your content. The numbers will be a direct tell if your audience likes it or not, but it never hurts to stop and ask yourself before publishing: is this actually what my audience wants? Will this piece address their needs, wants, and interests?
6. Embrace your curious nature
Curiosity is what compels great content writers to come up with even better content. Why? Because, with curiosity drives an individual to learn more about a certain something. It encourages them to look at all angles, asking incessant questions. HubSpot puts it best when they say, “it’s the insights that come from [this] inherent curiosity that makes great content”.
Hopefully these tips help you on your content creation journey. Let us know if there’s another you think should be added to this list!