What to Consider When Building a Content Schedule
Every blog and brand has a litany of concerns to consider when operating in any online arena. Among the most important, a consistent delivery of content to interested audiences ensures that people have a reason to return to their websites on a regular basis. Depending on §the nature of the brand or blog in question, some may require daily updates via social media, blogs and email, while others may only need to provide weekly or even monthly updates through select platforms.
Regardless of the variance, brands must know how to properly construct a content schedule that adheres to the needs and wishes of their audiences. Today, we’ll take a look at a few prime considerations that should be made when building a reliable content schedule.
Determine Content Goals
First and foremost, it is essential to determine which goals you want to meet with content creation. Many brands will have already identified specific topics and angles for coverage, but it is also recommended to determine which types of content (videos, different types of infographics, blog posts and so forth) will be used and in what rotation.
This makes it possible to constantly be pinging your website with a variety of content on a regular schedule and ensures you have ample time between rounds of publishing to create simpler or more complex forms of content.
Balance Old and New Forms of Content
There are many reasons to create content schedules – and content itself. Most forms of content provide long-term value, but only if smart strategies are used to extract maximum value. This is yet another way in which content schedules can provide real benefit.
While publishing and planning for new content offerings should be a priority, content schedules can also make it easier to track older pieces of content for republishing and refreshing. Whether it becomes necessary to update older offerings with new information or simply offers a chance to create reminders for promoting said content once again via social media and email, content schedules can be great for ensuring each post and page generates optimal value.
Other Vital Considerations
Depending on the size and scope of your brand, a content schedule may involve tasks handled by multiple individuals. As such, creating a schedule that works for everyone is vital.
Building a content schedule that allows for some flexibility is recommended. If someone (including yourself) cannot make an occasional deadline, then are there solutions to ensure your brand’s marketing and content strategy continues unabated?
Likewise, it is recommended not to overburden a schedule initially. Many will see the use of a schedule as a chance to include any and all actions – as well as an opportunity to expand content creation and offerings. However, this isn’t a good idea if suddenly the schedule becomes overburdened, cluttered or your strategy shifts to one where fluff pieces that don’t resonate with audiences are constantly pinging your website.
Ultimately, even small brands can benefit from a documented, established schedule governing content creation and distribution. By incorporating some of these considerations into your content plans, you can potentially create more robust offerings for your audience, minimize long-term personal stress and get more done.