Collaborative content creation has been a buzzword that’s been thrown around for a while, but a lot of companies still don’t know what it is, or how to use it properly. After all, content marketing takes a lot of work and there are a lot of moving pieces involved. In this post we’re going to illustrate how you can best keep track of your collaboration efforts throughout the content marketing process, via a series of strategies and best practices.
Play To Your Team’s Strengths
A lot of companies prefer to spread the task of creating content out across their entire company. However, in some instances you may run into a roadblock. For instance, you could have a rockstar public speaker who can’t write very well.
Instead of forcing them to write this weeks blog post you could have them record a video, or podcast episode instead. You could always have these alternative forms of media transcribed, so you’re still left with content that can help to grow your rankings (if that’s a concern).
Make sure you take stock of the different skill-sets your team has, as this can help to dictate the different roles each person is going to play throughout the content creation process. This will help to ensure the process moves along without any roadblocks, because a team member is working out of their element.
Do The Background Work
When you’re creating a single piece of content you need to define the purpose and objective. Are you trying to get more shares? Are you educating your customers about a new product feature? Are you addressing a smaller portion of your market?
You must take the time to flesh out the background of each post you’re publishing before you put a single word down on the page.
This will help you have a clear focus and takeaway for each post, instead of simply having a blog populated with posts that aren’t providing much value to your reader.
When you’re laying the foundation for each piece of content make sure every member of your team is part of this vision, or at least has a basic understanding of its purpose. With this vision in mind you’ll be able to consistently create better content.
Consider A Content Calendar
Now that you know which team members are primed to create styles of content, and you know the purpose for each post you’re going to write it’s time to develop a system that will help you keep your posts on track.
1. Schedule Your Content In Advance
Editorial calendars can help keep the content flowing on your blog. This will help you create certain themes for your readers, and ensure you never have a gap in content.
This will also allow you to plan in advance, and source any need materials, statistics and interviews, so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
2. Build In Accountability
Consider having an editor, or another team member have oversight on your content strategy. This will help keep people accountable for turning in their posts on time. Another great method is to use a project management tool, such as, Trello, to help track the multiple stages of the content production process.
3. Measure Your Progress
The only way to see what’s working is to set measurable goals for each piece of content, then see if the post achieved the metrics. By setting tangible goals you can have your blog grow in a positive direction for your business for the long-term.
If you’re interested in a completely customized content marketing strategy, then get in touch with C7 Creative today. We love serving local businesses across the Jacksonville, FL area.
