Creating content that engages and converts readers into customers is essential for any business, no matter how large or small the budget. In fact, content marketing doesn't require astronomical amounts of money. Many excellent examples of content marketing campaigns achieved stellar results without breaking the bank. So, let's have a closer look at some tips and tricks for developing a content strategy on a budget!
According to HubSpot, content creators, content marketing managers, and content strategists are the three top positions cherished by marketing leaders. The niche has marked its importance in the industry, and there is a continuous demand for professionals in the relevant field. Based on other research conducted by the Content Marketing Institute, a content-centric business approach can generate approximately 62% of the total leads.
Content Marketing as It Is
The first step to mastering content marketing is by understanding its main objectives. Content marketing means creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent information to attract and acquire a clearly-defined audience. The purpose is to generate favorable customer reaction that will eventually lead to conversions and ROI.
To have success and see significant results, content marketing should be an integral part of a company's business strategy and not simply an occasional activity. It would work best if businesses allocated a fixed budget for it, in order to plan and track the progress more efficiently.
Only in 2021, the global content marketing industry revenue was estimated at nearly 66 bln US dollars. But keep in mind that although the results can be rewardingcontent marketing is a long-term strategy, and its effects are not seen overnight. Remember, —little strokes fell great oaks. The same can be implied about content marketing. A company doesn't need to put significant amounts of money into its content. Instead, if you are a bit tight on budget, it is more reasonable to focus on improving the quality.
Your Cheat List for a Content Strategy on Budget
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s take a look at some of the ways you can actually improve your content strategy, even on a tight budget. There are plenty of examples, but not all of them will work for your business. That's why you need to tailor your content strategy according to your company's voice, values, and goals. With that in mind, check the following budget tips to get started!
Repurpose Old Content
One of the most effective content marketing tips is to "recycle" the content. This means that you can turn an old blog post or article into something new, such as an infographic or a video. Content repurpose also means updating old information to ensure it is still relevant to your customers' needs.
But if you are still not sure how to creatively vivify older stuff, here are a few fresh tips to grab:
- -- Turn an old blog post into a podcast. If several articles have tons of valuable and evergreen information, it may be time to start thinking about turning some of those into audio content. Modern technologies aren't at a standstill. Give a try to some high-tech tools and see how they work with your audience. Plus, remember that today recording a podcast isn't as challenging as it may seem. Luckily, a tool like Podcastle.ai can help you record a podcast in a snap! All you need is a microphone, a laptop, and some vibrant ideas.
- -- Turning a blog post into an eBook is another example of content repurposing. Articles usually imply more comprehensive and detailed research than social media publications. That said, they are an ideal eBook base.
Your eBooks can be somewhere between 15 to 50 pages long and cover some niche-related topics. As for design, Canva or Adobe InDesign are affordable and easy-to-use tools to make sleek and polished business eBooks.
Email Marketing
Email marketing is an excellent way to nurture potential customers and keep your current clients updated on your latest content. It's a great strategy to include in your content marketing plan as it doesn't require a significant investment.
To get started, you need to build an email list of subscribers. Use sign-up forms on your website, social media platforms, or even events to encourage people to subscribe to the newsletter. Some businesses offer something in return for signing up, such as a discount code or early access to the exclusive eBook.
Once your list of subscribers is ready, start sending them regular content updates, exclusive offers, and other valuable information. Use email marketing tools like Mailchimp to automate your email marketing and simplify the process.
Make Use of Social Media
Social media should be one of the foundations of your content marketing strategy. After all, that's where most people are spending their time online.
The awesome thing about SMM is that it's free (with some exceptions). Companies use such platforms to promote their brand, connect with potential customers, and generate leads.
To get the most out of social media marketing, you need to be present on the platforms where your target audience is hanging out. The most popular ones are Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. But depending on the business type, you may also need to be active on TikTok, Snapchat, or Pinterest.
The key to success on social media is creating content that resonates with your audience and drives engagement. This can come in blog posts, infographics, videos, short updates, and announcements.
Trust Artificial Intelligence
Artificial intelligence is not only for big companies with huge marketing budgets. In fact, AI can become a perfect content strategy on a budget! One of the most significant advantages of using AI in content marketing is its ability to automate repetitive tasks. Marketers save tons of time and effort by using tools that, for instance, are converting text to speech. Due to Deep Learning technologies, voice skins sound as humanlike and natural as possible. Just imagine the opportunities you've been missing out on!
See, content marketing is an efficient and budget-friendly way to promote a business. By using some or all the examples of content strategy on a budget mentioned above, you can take your business to the next level in no time! So what are you waiting for? Grab on the content marketing bandwagon today!
