What makes an effective content marketer?  It’s not all about the writing, that’s for sure. A recent study from the Content Marketing Institute got us thinking about what the most effective B2B Content Marketers are doing to be truly successful.  We thought we would share some of their insight and a few key lessons we have learned along the way.

1. Map it out

The most effective marketers map out their strategy… days, weeks, months, even years in advance. 66% of effective content marketers say they have a documented content strategy, and 86% have someone dedicated to overseeing this strategy.  These teams know what is on the horizon across their communication channels, and can clearly see 1) not only what types of content need to be created, but also 2) how they can best track the effectiveness of these campaigns.

Our team uses a content calendar to break down all of the upcoming campaigns by channel and content type. We’re able to see, at a glance, what campaigns are imminent and what needs to be done, as well as how all of the different campaigns will intersect. This calendar has been an invaluable tool in being able to manage all of the different initiatives our department oversees.

2. Expand your thinking

Where are you posting your content? Your website and a couple of social media channels? The CMI study finds than an effective content marketer uses an average of 15 tactics and 7 social media platforms to communicate their message.

Our team is always on the hunt for new ways to reach our audience, and our audience isn’t always on the same channel. Learn to spread your reach while still focusing on the channels where your audience is going to be. Your content won’t be effective if you’re broadcasting to a deaf network.

3. Pull out your wallet

Over one-third of an effective marketer’s budget is spent on content marketing. Each company is different when it’s time to allot budgets, and marketing departments often feel the pinch most of all. But to be successful at content marketing and reach the audience you need, you’re going to need to invest.  But invest wisely. Make brilliant hires – a great content writer and strategist can make all the difference. Learn where your audience hangs out online… devote some coin to making a splash in those areas. First and foremost, make sure you do the research before you spend… be confident that you’re investing in the right people and the right places.

4. Challenge your team

Easy content is rarely the most engaging. You must bring something new to the table, or your audience won’t come to you for education or engagement. Again, do your research. Find out what your audience wants to know, then present it in a way that reflects your brand and engages.  Our team  is constantly searching for new content and innovative ways to present it.  We do our best work when we approach each campaign with a voracious curiosity and a critical mindset (always with an eye to our audience).  Think big. Be interesting!

Connect with us to keep learning… next, we’ll explore the different types of content you can create & share. Stay tuned for that study soon.

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About The Author

Courtney Todd brings over ten years marketing and communications experience to her role at Distribion. She specializes in B2B marketing and has worked in a range of industries including technology, luxury furniture manufacturing and healthcare. She holds an MFA from Columbia University in New York and a BA from Southern Methodist University in Dallas. Connect with Courtney on LinkedIn and Twitter.