What is a universal with the content marketers we know? No one has enough time to do everything. To help, Roger Parker joined us for our recent #CMWorld Twitter chat on content marketing productivity.
Visit CMI to read more posts from Roger who often writes about productivity as well as other content marketing tips.
Being productive while also creating gets (new) things done. #CMWorld
@CTrappe
Q1 Organization is key! Editorial calendars & communication across depts. #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
“There is nothing so useless as doing efficiently that which should not be done at all.” – Peter F. Drucker #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
A1. Guard your time! Set aside blocks without meetings or chats to draft. #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@SFerika *waving back* Glad you could join us, Erika! #CMWorld
@CMIContent
A1 knowing what’s on the schedule and when it’s due is essential for a freelancer #cmworld
@tracibrowne
Q1. Setting an editorial calendar. But more importantly, sticking to it! That’s the hard part 🙂 #cmworld
@KittermanMG
A1: Direction, planning, goals, et al. If you know where you’re going, it’s easier to figure out how to get there. #CMworld
@Mr_McFly
A1. Being methodical and keeping a calendar. There is so much that can be done that you can be easily distracted. #cmworld
@LisaMasiello
@CMIContent A1: Have a system that works well for you and your team. Utilize curation and creation tools. Create a schedule. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A1: A documented plan/calendar is the #1 essential! #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
@CMIContent A1 Content, Place, Presentation and Promotion #CMWorld
@ankit1989
@CMIContent A1 having collaboration tools like @RedboothHQ + @kapost +@evernote + Google drive = key to my daily productivity. #CMworld
@SFerika
@CMIContent A1. Planning! Developing a strategy and goals and social listening. #CMWorld
@KylaK
A1: try to approach with ‘build once, use many’ whenever possible. #cmworld
@mewzikgirl
A1: Make sure you’re working on the right things: #contentmarketing productivity #CMWorld
@AnneJanzer
A1: Clear idea of what is needed so fewer revisions needed, using tools to curate & create content. #CMWorld
@EagleEyedEditor
A1. Content marketing productivity requires solid infrastructure and planning, plus great content & execution! #CMWorld
@dwheeler11
@AnneJanzer Right?! Strategy, always. #cmworld
@mewzikgirl
@CMIContent: A1: Getting everyone onboard with your strategy. Then planning, communication, teamwork. #CMWorld
@webmastergirl
A1 A team captain who keeps everyone organised and sees that processes are followed and improved! #CMWorld
@webber_karen
@SFerika are you sending me some? 😀 cc: @mikemyers614 #CMworld
@Mr_McFly
A1: #contentmarketing productivity includes clearly defining audiences, messages and distribution methods. Sorry, that’s clinical. #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
A1. Draw up a quarterly content calendar & work backwards from deadlines to ensure time for drafts/your approval process #CMWorld
@UnionMetrics
A1: I call it getting in “get sh*t done mode”. Otherwise we spend too much time strategizing. At some point it’s learn by doing… #CMWorld
@MaelRoth
A1. But also be sure you leave room for creative, of-the-moment ideas! #CMWorld
@UnionMetrics
@mewzikgirl Very good point Heather. Turn the info into as many types of content as possible. #CMWorld
@LisaMasiello
Thanks @SFerika @RedboothHQ @kapost @evernote love discovering new tools & platforms, and learning what others use daily #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
@katelynahern02 let’s somehow make it a point to do so! @CMIContent #CMworld
@Mr_McFly
A1. Content Marketing and productivity meet w/ organization & through proven tools & systems that allow for max output. #CMWorld
@ClearVoice
@SparkerWorks So important! It’s really hard to draft something spectacular when you’re distracted by other things. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@MaelRoth Love this. Totally believe in failing faster. Learn & move forward! #cmworld
@mewzikgirl
@kiporama gday, Kip! #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
@Mr_McFly @SFerika @mikemyers614 add us to the “please send” list! 🙂 #CMWorld
@CMIContent
A1 To me, there are 5 essentials of content marketing productivity. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
.@CMIContent Being extra-picky regarding which #contentmarketing webinars you attend for insights. #CMWorld
@dryvetyme
.@mewzikgirl Love that! I write so many “one-off” pieces and it’s really not efficient. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
@KittermanMG Knowledge gained through experience. *wry smile* #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
A1 First, you have to understand your market and their needs. This provides focus. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A1: Create a schedule, set deadlines, and have everything assigned accordingly. Planning, planning, planning #CMWorld
@DavidProHQ
@dryvetyme happy to see you today, Adam! #CMWorld
@CMIContent
A1 Real deadlines…not those self-imposed ones that can easily be bumped #cmworld
@tracibrowne
A1 Time management is the 2nd essential. Manage your time as carefully as you manage your money. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@UnionMetrics We love those spontaneous creative ideas! #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A1) Content marketing productivity= Make a strategy, put it in a calendar, and try to stick to it. Too easy to get side tracked #cmworld
@CrowdContent
A1 Third, leverage everything, i.e., ideas, words, graphics, and time. This creates efficiency. #cmworld
@Rogercparker
A1 Don’t publish something just to publish *something*. Publish when it’s ready. Sticking to a calendar is less important. #cmworld
@samueljscott
A1. A plan: what you are going to do, why you are going to do it and how you will know whether it was successful #CMWorld
@contentbycara
@CMIContent @Mr_McFly @SFerika @mikemyers614 hello friends! #cmworld
@allygreer
@Rogercparker Time management is huge. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A1: Make sure what you’re making makes a difference. If it doesn’t–don’t do it. #cmworld
@pisarose
A1. Get strategy first, calendar second. Don’t let calendars inhibit real-time creativity #CMWorld
@riverwordguy
A1 @crestodina writes, you need to view content as atoms you can recycle & rearrange in different ways. #cmworld
@Rogercparker
@CMIContent Hey team! 🙂 #cmworld
@CrowdContent
A1: Research skills are the unsung hero of #contentmarketing productivity #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
@kiporama hey hey hey! Good to see you! #cmworld
@CMIContent
@allygreer Hello Ally!!!!! @CMIContent @SFerika @mikemyers614 #CMworld
@Mr_McFly
A1 Fourth, leverage time by using the right tools. This creates efficiency #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@MaelRoth Hah I have a playlist named that for blocking out the world when I need to Get Shit Done : ) #CMworld
@SparkerWorks
So happy to be here today, @CMIContent! #CMWorld
@kiporama
Automate what you can, but never too much! #CMWorld
@allygreer
@SparkerWorks @MaelRoth don’t we all? 🙂 #cmworld
@CMIContent
A1 Finally, productivity involves discipline: action rather than distraction. This prevents procrastination. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@samueljscott Great distinction! It’s better to make sure it’s ready. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@jacobhenenberg @CMIContent @KylaK thank you very much. Glad I stumbled upon #CMWorld hoping to learn more today!
@petersyravong
@SparkerWorks @MaelRoth Awesome idea! Is it shareable? Would love some music inspiration. #cmworld
@mewzikgirl
@SparkerWorks haha me too but I don’t think we have the same stuff in there xD #CMWorld
@MaelRoth
@ThinkSEM Things can linger in drafts for ages if you’re constantly getting only five minutes at a time to work on them #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@allygreer @CMIContent @Mr_McFly @mikemyers614 Good morning! #CMworld
@SFerika
@mikemyers614 @tracibrowne accountability partners! #cmworld
@allygreer
@mikemyers614 there’s nothing like embracing procrastination skills to get more done #cmworld
@tracibrowne
I enjoy reading a variety of opinions and perspectives in #CMWorld – 2 diff thoughts on A1 http://bit.ly/1yBQfa7 http://bit.ly/1yBQcem
@jacobhenenberg
@Rogercparker Excellent last name, btw ; ) #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
A1) Creating templates and guidelines so you’re not re-creating the wheel every time. #CMWorld
@SandyDeWald
@mikemyers614 @tracibrowne announcing upcoming blog posts helps – it holds you accountable. I do that when I want to get s#!t done #CMWorld
@KylaK
A2: Attention to detail, goal-oriented, a people person. #CMWorld
@DavidProHQ
@petersyravong we’re happy to have you! @jacobhenenberg @KylaK #cmworld
@CMIContent
Q2 Successful marketers use processes that make sense for their team. Communication communication communication! #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@CMIContent @Mr_McFly @mikemyers614 Some day, I’ll have my own bakery… 😉 #CMworld
@SFerika
A1 Having a reliable method of measuring your progress and ROI. Report and learn #cmworld
@Beymour
A2: An understanding of what their audience needs and when is a biggie. #CMworld
@Mr_McFly
#CMworld A1: Have a process and stick to it. Know your deadlines and manage your time.
@JeremyBednarski
@CMIContent Great question, Q2: What are some habits that successful content marketers share? #CMWorld
@Rogercparker
@CMIContent A2: Great time management skills. Thorough understanding of their content marketing strategy. Self-starting qualities. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@KylaK @mikemyers614 @tracibrowne Great idea Kyla! #CMWorld
@LisaMasiello
@CrowdContent absolutely, it’s a crowded internet out there, chock full of distractions. Not to mention the physical world #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
A2. Successful content marketers are usually good at planning, but also have creativity/flexibility/ability to do quick turnaround. #cmworld
@dwheeler11
A2: Every successful content marketer I know reads and writes daily. #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
A2: dare I say it? Yes I do. Empathy. All good Marketing is empathy. 🙂 #CMWorld
@MaelRoth
@SFerika @Mr_McFly @mikemyers614 well be sure to have some orange goodies in there too 🙂 #TeamOrange #MakingRequests #cmworld
@CMIContent
Something I’m trying to perfect: getting the most out of the smallest amount of resources/time. #leancontent #CMWorld
@allygreer
A2 Successful CMers choose topics ahead of time. They identify themes for upcoming months. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
It’s my first time here in #CMWorld too. @petersyravong I can’t seem to pick up the chat in TweetChat for some reason, though.
@Ronda_Bowen
@SparkerWorks Absolutely. It’s best to just set aside a block of time to just crank it out. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
Q2. Constantly changing things up. If you can keep on a steady schedule but change the approach slightly each time you’re golden #cmworld
@KittermanMG
A2 I think many of the most productive, successful content marketers have a content strategy + editorial plan #CMworld
@SFerika
Q2 Successful marketers also research their audience. Meet them where they are; talk on their level. #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@DavidProHQ All great to have! #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@mewzikgirl @MaelRoth It’s a @Spotify playlist! Let me grab it for you: http://open.spotify.com/user/sparkerpants/playlist/4NFgk4ZL4rVMSSkFhsuNcd #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
A2 Meticulously tracking where/how you spend your time #cmworld
@tracibrowne
@Mr_McFly and the ability to make charts. Lots of charts. #cmworld
@allygreer
A2: Content ratio = 70% low-risk, takes 50% of your time; 20% innovate off what works; 10% high-risk ideas. @jeffbullas #cmworld
@pisarose
A2 Then, they select weekly topics that build upon their monthly themes. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@Mr_McFly Without that, you have no strategy. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A2 Turn content into conversations to convert lookers into customers #CMWorld
@riverwordguy
A1: Lists play a pretty big roll, I’d say! #cmworld
@NickKellet
@MaelRoth Hah you never know #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@Ronda_Bowen @petersyravong try http://www.tchat.io/rooms/cmworld – good chat option in lieu of TweetChat #cmworld
@dwheeler11
Love our strategies! MT @SFerika A2 many of the most productive, successful content marketers have content strategy+editorial plan #cmworld
@CMIContent
@Ronda_Bowen ah ok – I am using TweetDeck, you can try that – works fine 🙂 #CMWorld
@petersyravong
A2 Finally, they take daily action on their weekly and monthly goals. #CMWorld
@Rogercparker
@Ronda_Bowen @petersyravong Go to http://nurph.com and type in #CMWorld
@LisaMasiello
A2: Knowing how to work efficiently. Taking the trouble to know the audience & their needs. SoMe shouldn’t be one-way. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
@SparkerWorks @mewzikgirl @MaelRoth @Spotify Rock on, Sarah! Thanks! #cmworld
@mewzikgirl
@PatrickHayslett You must do so in order to get better at your craft! #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A2 Successful content markets create content that connects with user intent. #cmworld
@Beymour
A2 Successful CMs share the habit of getting an early start on their projects. Early starts cut stress and reduce mistakes. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A2 Ability to connect dots that otherwise seem unconnected #cmworld
@tracibrowne
@CMIContent: A2: We are super organized, constantly trying to keep up with industry changes, & have a love of metrics. #CMWorld
@webmastergirl
A2: Successful content marketers don’t just provide info or entertainment…they provide insight & context on how it matters #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
A2 Can I answer with a link? http://www.slideshare.net/mobile/AxonnMedia/7-habits-of-highly-effective-content-marketers #CMWorld
@webber_karen
A2 Figure out your objectives, milestones and KPI if possible. One of the first very important steps #CMWorld (any strategy really)
@petersyravong
A2 reliable methods to tangibly track stats, ROI and progress of work. Great content is the end-result of HQ prep and analysis #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
A2 Listening, Understanding and Empathy – both with client goals and with audience. Creativity of course #cmworld @CMIContent
@Beth_Bespoke
A1: Marketing Productivity comes to a large part from understanding the machine of the internet AND the psychology of people #cmworld
@NickKellet
A2 Quality and last minute deadlines are incompatible. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A2: Successful content marketers have a strategy, promotion plan, and map to buyer journeys to ensure their content is relevant #CMWorld
@Fawzy_Aya
A2 Successful #content marketers know how to tell a #story! #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
#CMWorld A2: Great communication skills…especially outside of your dept. and have a thirst for knowledge and learning new things.
@JeremyBednarski
A2. Great content teams hold each other accountable, but also aren’t afraid to ask each other for help, or offer it! #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@riverwordguy Masterfully said! #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
A2.2 They are definitely self-starters and excellent communicators. Successful content marketers are in tune with their audience #CMWorld
@DavidProHQ
As a marketing pro, you should be able to evangelize for #contentmarketing within your company as well. #CMWorld
@allygreer
@jacobhenenberg You know it! One minute you’re checking out a cool blog, nxt thing you know it’s an hour later. #cmworld
@CrowdContent
@PatrickHayslett Agreed, the context is just as important as the content itself #cmworld
@Beymour
A2 For many, writing habits that got them this far, like last-minute term papers, don’t work for marketing. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@dwheeler11 The ideal mix! #CMWorld
@UnionMetrics
@SparkerWorks Accountability is a big thing in content marketing. All team members must be on board. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A2 Successful CMs habits include creating mini-deadlines for the various tasks required for each project. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
Successful #contentmarketing requires working well with others (inside company, customers) #cmworld
@AnneJanzer
A2 They focus on the audience and always try to get to know & serve them better. #CMWorld
@webber_karen
A2. #Curiosity. #Generosity. #cmworld
@kiporama
A2 Mini-deadlines create urgency and pace progress. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A2: Content marketers have excellent foresight! They can predict audience and business needs and plan accordingly. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
Um, well… 🙂 MT @Rogercparker: A2 Successful CMs share the habit of getting an early start on their projects. #CMworld
@mikemyers614
A1 Discipline… #CMWorld
@tedgreen
A2 Love your deadlines! #CMWorld
@riverwordguy
@ThinkSEM I’m working on getting started earlier. Nobody bothers you in the early morning! #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
A2 The habit of meeting mini-deadlines creates feelings of satisfaction which powers further progress. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A2) Staying curious & open to new innovations and marketing concepts. Setting aside time to “study” those who are doing it right. #cmworld
@CrowdContent
A1: Productivity comes from sales & marketing dancing to the same beat and sticking to it (one song, no shuffle). #cmworld
@NickKellet
@SparkerWorks That’s my favorite time to put the final touches and edits on blog posts before publication. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A2 Successful CMs cultivate the habit of short, frequent working sessions rather than long, tiring, sessions. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
Good to be here #CMWorld A2: Habits content marketers have is sharing
@connieurway
@Rogercparker Especially when they are self-driven. Great point! #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A1: Knowing why you’re using content marketing and who your audience is. Otherwise you can spend all your time missing the mark. #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
A2 They also CMs master their software and use keyboard shortcuts for instant access to commands without reaching for the mouse. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A3. First thing I do is think about what I want my audience to take away from reading my content #CMWorld
@DavidProHQ
@Beymour People always talk about being “useful” and “relevant.” Context turns those buzzwords into something concrete #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
@TeriMKojetin @CMIContent #AlwaysBeLearning 🙂 #cmworld
@Beymour
Being able to recognize the difference between blogging and content marketing. It’s so much more than creating! #CMWorld
@allygreer
A2 Most important, successful CMs carefully manage their time. They run marathons, not races. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A2: If they’re stuck on how the story should unfold (or what the story is), they ask for help. #cmworld
@pisarose
A3: The first thing to do when #writing anything is to jump with both feet into the audience’s shoes #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
@sugarsugarcg This is huge! Correctly predicting the relevance of content ahead of time is an awesome trait. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
Q3. First: Research until you can’t research any more. Last: Double-check for accuracy and make sure the voice is correct. #cmworld
@KittermanMG
Q3 1st I take notes by hand & organize a rough structure. Last thing is proofreading. Then proofreading again. #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@Beymour @TeriMKojetin great hashtag! #cmworld
@CMIContent
A3: Start and end with the title. Put some content in the sandwich and add some spicy relish. #cmworld
@NickKellet
@Beymour @CMIContent constantly and forever! 🙂 #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
@CMIContent A2.Plan, Execute, Listen, Research, find things their competitors aren’t doing & find ways how they can help customers #CMWorld
@KylaK
@CMIContent You can’t say ORANGE to a @SyracuseU alum w/o them getting excited! @SFerika @mikemyers614 #CMWorld http://t.co/YdzTqV5eaj
@Mr_McFly
A2 Successful CMers realise need for personal #h2h content that tells a story, invites participation & engagement w. the narrative #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
A3 Start blogs with ideas from your notebook, questions customers ask, relevant news stories #CMWorld
@riverwordguy
A2 Thinking across silos and communicating effectively with everyone in the org to build culture of content #CMWorld
@webber_karen
@NickKellet Honey Dijon works pretty decent as well #cmworld
@KittermanMG
A2: Showing up. Turning up at your computer (blogging software, social network) consistently is the best way to be successful. #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
A3 After outlining what you are going to write and why…just get words on paper/screen no editing, just a brain dump #cmworld
@tracibrowne
@NickKellet I like this. Sometimes you can tell that a post was written to fit a title and it should be the opposite #cmworld
@Beymour
@CMIContent A3: I write all of my ideas. The editing can come later on. It’s better to get everything down on the page first. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A2 Developing the positioning first so that the content will communicate the desired marketing messages #CMWorld
@samueljscott
A3: First things are research, mind map ideas. Second draft, edit co-schedule #CMWorld
@connieurway
A3: Plan what to say & how. Create a title optimized to catch readers & search engines. Last thing: Proofread 2x!!! #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
A3: Oh, and at the end — proofread! proofread! Proofread! #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
@DavidProHQ Yes. If it’s not audience-centric, it’s not going to be successful. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@mikemyers614 This is one of the most important parts! #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
A3) Don’t freak out (blank page) and don’t freak out (just post it). #CMWorld
@SandyDeWald
@CMIContent: A3: 1st draft is free writing. Then lots of tweaking. Last thing: check grammar, spelling, links! #CMWorld
@webmastergirl
@EagleEyedEditor That’s why you have that eagle eye 😉 #cmworld
@Beymour
A3 ID message, goal and CTA first. Last, measure against objectives #CMWorld
@webber_karen
@TeriMKojetin @CMIContent The amount of times we reread things… so many! #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A3 after running through spell/grammar check and grammarly…The last thing I do is read it out loud #cmworld
@tracibrowne
A3: first thing really: think about value and who you’re trying to reach. Then think about distribution… #CMWorld
@MaelRoth
A3: First make sure the topic is relevant to your audience and not a hard sell. Last: promote across channels! It needs to get seen #CMWorld
@Fawzy_Aya
@ThinkSEM @CMIContent And we still can miss things! #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
A3 I don’t know about some of you, but literally writing something down in part of planning. It somehow solidifies the idea #CMWorld
@petersyravong
A3: consider the audience first. Do they want to read it? Then, use http://pointsonpaper.com to see if I can cut junk out. #cmworld
@mewzikgirl
@Mr_McFly @CMIContent @SyracuseU @SFerika @mikemyers614 Cue the Linus & Lucy music! #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
17 Types of Honey Dijon to Set Your Content on Fire! @KittermanMG @NickKellet Honey Dijon works pretty decent as well #cmworld
@NickKellet
@EagleEyedEditor @Mr_McFly @SyracuseU @SFerika @mikemyers614 can never go wrong with a little orange! #cmworld
@CMIContent
@CMIContent a p.s. for A3: My favorite thing in the world is free writing! It’s liberating. #CMWorld
@webmastergirl
A3: First thing I do writing a blog post is the first paragraph. It has to be compelling & smooth lead-in. Last thing I do is edit #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
@PatrickHayslett Import to have all content provide value, be it teaching or contextualizing something, entertaining, or inspiring. #CMWorld
@UnionMetrics
@Beymour You bet your boots! #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
A3 I’m awful at proofing my own work. I auto-correct my own mistakes, so I like having someone else do it for me. #cmworld
@Beymour
@petersyravong Definitely. We write down all of our ideas before dismissing any. #cmworld
@KittermanMG
@mikemyers614 something I should do… And I even know I should #noexcuse #CMWorld
@MaelRoth
A3: I’m a big fan of writing outlines. Kickin’ it old school. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
@MaelRoth Yeah, it’s like working out (at least for me) #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
@Beymour We like to look over each other’s work too. Helps with context mishaps and what not too. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@NickKellet This marketer added dill relish to their content marketing. You won’t believe what happened next! #cmworld
@KittermanMG
A3: I put together a rough outline. Then, I give myself permission to write a bad first draft. The last thing I do is read it aloud #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
@sugarsugarcg Especially for long form content. They can be so helpful. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A3B Written content should be concise & take out any fillers. Time is valuable, attention is short people have chats to attend 🙂 #CMWorld
@petersyravong
A3: Sometimes I’m amazed at how much an idea can change and become totally different during the writing process. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
@TeriMKojetin @CMIContent We’re only human after all! #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A3 Last: Wrestle the headline to the ground #CMWorld
@riverwordguy
A3: The1st thing I do when writing a blog post is figure out the Why and So What. Why would my audience read it and why they care. #CMWorld
@JeremyBednarski
@KittermanMG @NickKellet LOL – Shouldn’t That Be All Title Case? #cmworld
@dwheeler11
interesting…I write the title last @EpicSandwich @NickKellet #cmworld
@tracibrowne
@Beymour I know the feeling, man. If you can schedule time to get away from it and return later. You tend to see the mistakes then. #CMWorld
@Mr_McFly
@CMIContent A3: 1st thing, ask who I’m writing it for & what they would want out of it. Last, check it’s reasonably SEO optimised. #CMWorld
@AndyVale
@NickKellet @KittermanMG we see the infographic already! #cmworld
@CMIContent
@Rogercparker Unless you have a piece to turn out on a tight deadline— then those skills come in handy! #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@UnionMetrics @PatrickHayslett The trick is to be original also, so you don’t repeat what everyone else is saying. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
@sugarsugarcg I love writing outlines it makes it so much easier to go back and spice up the content! #CMWorld
@Fawzy_Aya
@CMIContent @sugarsugarcg There’s lots of wisdom in traditional best practices 🙂 #cmworld
@KittermanMG
Check: are they a good fit? Can you adjust them and your work? QT @mikemyers614 A3: jump with both feet into the audience’s shoes #cmworld
@jacobhenenberg
A3 Productivity doesn’t begin until I create a new folder for each project. Each project has its own folder #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@dwheeler11 @NickKellet You’re right! Still needs to go through copy edits 😉 #cmworld
@KittermanMG
@Mr_McFly Yeah, stepping away definitely helps #cmworld
@Beymour
@katelynahern02 @Beymour Absolutely! Also helps with collaboration, which is great for teamwork. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A3. The last thing is the title. The title should reflect the article. Don’t put that boundary on your post by writing it first. #cmworld
@outsider_nyc
a3] Start your writing with an outline. Then write everything down as quickly as you can. Lastly, edit, edit, edit #cmworld
@heidicohen
@Rogercparker I organize my ideas this way too. It helps so much! #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A3 Then, I create a new text file. I enter a “placeholder” title and subheads for the points I want to cover. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A few smart words/works catapult you form the shadows, but it’s a strategy that will keep you in the limelight #cmworld
@NickKellet
@Rogercparker Love it. Real folder or electronic? #cmworld
@mikemyers614
@KittermanMG so true. Traditional principles, never go away. cc: @CMIContent @sugarsugarcg #CMWorld
@Mr_McFly
@CMIContent gotta go. It’s been short but intense dear Content Marketers 🙂 #CMWorld
@MaelRoth
@MaelRoth glad you could stop in for a little bit today! #cmworld
@CMIContent
A3) We start with figuring out what our audience wants (usually via survey). We end with proofing and creative. #cmworld
@CrowdContent
#CMWorld The last thing I do for a blog post lately is come up with the title…usually a few ideas to choose from.
@JeremyBednarski
.@Rogercparker I love the smell of new folders in the morning! #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
A3 At this point, my project begins to feel “real” #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@CMIContent A4. Weigh the value & time against your audience & their needs. #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
@CMIContent A3. First: Outline, drop in ideas, drop into the blog it’s going to live on; start drafting which seems easiest 1st #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
Q4 I’ve begun asking project requesters to tell me how they plan to use content. No sense making something to sit in a drawer. #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
A4: I’m a narrow-minded content creator. If anything remotely veers from my main idea, it goes in queue to become its own piece #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
@CMIContent A4: Anything that doesn’t fit with our content marketing strategy is thrown out. We want to fit our audience’s needs. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A4: We have a simple flow chart for where #contentmarketing can help and not. Like with desert, it’s hard to say no. #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
A3 I create graphics, like checklists, images, or worksheets as soon as possible. This helps clarify my ideas. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@NickKellet love delicious food metaphors, amazing how many things we can apply it to 🙂 #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
@CMIContent @EagleEyedEditor @Mr_McFly @SyracuseU @mikemyers614 As an @SFGiants fan I definitely have some orange 😉 #CMworld
@SFerika
A4. Make strategic decisions. Know when something requested won’t add enough value. Prioritize. Suggest alternatives when possible. #cmworld
@dwheeler11
<wink> @KittermanMG @dwheeler11 There’s some that see copy/sizzle, and some that see typos. 🙂 #cmworld. There’s a binary divide! </wink>
@NickKellet
@EagleEyedEditor @PatrickHayslett Absolutely! #CMWorld
@UnionMetrics
@outsider_nyc So true. I write a “working title” to send me down an initial path but final title doesn’t come till the end. #CMWorld
@LisaMasiello
Bit late to the party today! Just catching up, but good to be here 🙂 #cmworld
@wyzowl
A4. Put yourself in the audience’s perspective. This helps to figure out what won’t work even though it seems a good idea to you. #CMWorld
@outsider_nyc
A4. We must know our audience. #PersonasRuleAimlessContentProducersDrool #cmworld
@kiporama
A4: I think it’s important to say no if something truly doesn’t fit into the overall strategy. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
A3 In the next session, I look for easy parts of the post to write–lists or easy topics—to build momentum. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
#infosnacks all round! @jacobhenenberg @NickKellet love delicious food metaphors, amazing how many things we can apply it to 🙂 #CMWorld
@NickKellet
When crafting headlines take a page from Upworthy=>Write at least 25 different versions. #cmworld http://ow.ly/i/8uZ6f
@heidicohen
@SFerika @EagleEyedEditor @Mr_McFly @SyracuseU @mikemyers614 @SFGiants we knew there was a reason we loved all of you #TeamOrange #cmworld
@CMIContent
@jacobhenenberg @NickKellet Bacon always applies. Just saying #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
A3 When I’m finished, I put the post aside overnight. I need to proof it from a fresh perspective. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A4 What you should not do? Be irrelevant. One of the goals is to create engagement/loyalty – recognize value of people’s time #CMWorld
@petersyravong
A4: It’s easy to get bogged down in small side projects, but those are the real productivity killers. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
A4 I cringe when clients try to pump out as much content as possible and skimp on quality. It should be more than a checklist item #cmworld
@Beymour
A4 As a freelancer this Q is different for me….I say no to projects based on gut feeling I will be miserable when writing it #cmworld
@tracibrowne
A3 I print the post because it’s easier to find mistakes and missing words on paper. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
So important MT @outsider_nyc A4. Put yourself in the audience’s perspective. #cmworld
@CMIContent
A4 by evaluating what is really relevant for the reader and to the topic #CMWorld
@OL_FO
A4: First, I see where my intended audience is hanging out online. There’s no reason to post content in places it won’t be seen. #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
A4. Be not mediocre. #EverybodyWrites #cmworld
@kiporama
A4. Ask yourself, does this provide value to my audience? Would they share it? Why not? #CMWorld
@outsider_nyc
Q4 I also implemented a written request form for content projects. Creates accountability & saves me from 20 revisions! #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@Beymour we think we all do, right? #cmworld
@CMIContent
A3 I read the post out loud to identify missing words, awkward phrases, run-on sentences, etc. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A4: If it’s not intriguing to our audience why write it? We have topics we know fits our audience. So stick to the plan #CMWorld
@Fawzy_Aya
@Beymour No one wants 5 posts that say nothing. They’d rather have 1 post they learn something from. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
.@CMIContent A4 It’s all about knowing your audience. Knowing who to talk to directs what you don’t need to say. #CMWorld
@dryvetyme
@CMIContent A3. Last: Edit, edit, edit & grab another set of eyeballs if you need them! #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@CMIContent: A4: Strategy is key. If it doesn’t align, it’s not worth your time. Hey, I rhymed! #CMWorld
@webmastergirl
A4: Looking at past performance of content helps too. If a certain topic tanks views, there’s no reason for it. #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
A4. Utilize individuals strengths and weigh the value – is this time well spent? what is the ROI on this project? #CMWorld
@ClearVoice
A4: Your plan helps lead your process. If it goes completely against the plan do not do it. #CMWorld
@Mr_McFly
@Mr_McFly @Beymour Even a 5-min. break can help. Ever do find-a-word puzzles? Great for improving visual acuity. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
@Rogercparker I do that too sometimes. Certainly helps you concentrate more #cmworld
@Beymour
@webmastergirl ha ha ha a little bit of lyrical for our Tuesday! #cmworld
@CMIContent
Content needs to be punchy. And not like Rocky Balboa. Tight focus = hard hitting. It makes it lively. #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
Good morning all. #cmworld
@SusynEliseDuris
A2. Tracking their efforts and revising where needed #CMWorld
@contentbycara
A4: Discriminate faulty judgments with critical thinking skills when developing contents/subjects Moderator is helpful #cmworld
@connieurway
A4. Is it relevant to our audience and mission? Do we have capacity? Could we do a better job at a different time? #cmworld
@KittermanMG
@Rogercparker agreed! always let my writing “marinate” for a while! #CMWorld
@AmandaSubler
@Ronda_Bowen Bad first drafts are my religion. #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@Rogercparker That old school tactic really does help though. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@EagleEyedEditor interesting. I’m going to try ore find-a-word puzzles. cc: @Beymour #CMWorld
@Mr_McFly
A4. I also ask myself…would I want my name on the byline? If not, then the answer is no #freelancer #cmworld
@tracibrowne
A4: Balance sticking with strategy (saying no) and exploring new possibilities: keep the ‘learning mindset’ #cmworld
@AnneJanzer
@ClearVoice Always be looking for the ROI. Love it. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A4: Many times marketing should say no to change. Don’t let your boredom of a tagline / topic divert the oil tanker #cmworld
@NickKellet
A3. Find a problem to solve for their audience. #CMWorld
@contentbycara
A4. If there isn’t a compelling story, I find the exit. #cmworld
@kiporama
A4: Regular content audits can help you determine what’s working against what’s not working. http://rockthedeadline.com/blog/content-marketing/5-useful-free-tools-for-conducting-a-content-audit/ #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
Rocky. Peanuts. Spicy Dijon. It’s been quite the chat so far! #cmworld
@CMIContent
@NickKellet @KittermanMG @dwheeler11 The content that binds us … 😉 #CMWorld
@IanGertler
@CMIContent @Beymour it’s just so easy to do. So many resources and potential for data & info overload. Curate, collate, focus #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
@Mr_McFly I must break you. #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
@ThinkSEM Exactly. Clients throw around platitudes like “content is king” and assume more is always better. Not always the case. #cmworld
@Beymour
@Beymour @ThinkSEM QUALITY is king 🙂 #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@SoMeDanielleP @Beymour Yes! #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A4. If you can’t answer why you are doing it, you probably shouldn’t be doing it. #CMWorld
@contentbycara
This> MT @Rogercparker A2 Successful CMers choose topics in advance. They identify themes for upcoming months. Planning is key. #cmworld
@SusynEliseDuris
This –> jacobhenenberg it’s just so easy to do. So many resources and potential for data & info overload. Curate, collate, focus #cmworld
@Beymour
@SoMeDanielleP @Beymour @ThinkSEM I think Relevance is King. #cmworld
@kiporama
@PatrickHayslett @Mr_McFly *a new challenger arises* #CMWorld insert Tweet to continue
@jacobhenenberg
@Beymour There’s so much more behind that phrase than quantity. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@kiporama @SoMeDanielleP @Beymour Is it cheating to say both are? #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@kiporama @SoMeDanielleP @ThinkSEM You are correct, sir #cmworld
@Beymour
@IanGertler @NickKellet @KittermanMG I am an editor/proofreader at heart. You should see me with restaurant menus! #CMWorld
@dwheeler11
A5 Big yes to blog post series…you can be much more productive when you’re on a roll #cmworld
@tracibrowne
@CMIContent A5. It could, but I think repurposing to various platforms (slides, video, etc.) may be better than a series. #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
@CMIContent garnished with liberal servings of @Nurph #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
A4 I’ve found evaluation to be a matter of examining the project’s relevance, timeliness, and practicality. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@Beymour @ThinkSEM More is not always better. Better results come from quality content that’s well-written & well-researched #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
@Rogercparker Right? Like outlining on with a good ol’ pen and paper. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
A4. @ThinkSEM @SoMeDanielleP @Beymour Relevant Content is King, then, perhaps? #cmworld
@kiporama
@CMIContent Yes, if you need recurring deadlines & themes to inspire you. Not for everyone, but it can help. Do what makes sense. #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
you should see her with Facebook posts 😉 @dwheeler11 @IanGertler @NickKellet @KittermanMG #cmworld
@tracibrowne
A5: Series are less about productivity, more about offering multiple non-linear entry points into your story. Reader 1st! #cmworld
@NickKellet
A4 I start by asking: How relevant is the project to my market—i.e., clients and prospects? #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A:5 Yes! People don’t want to read long posts so having a series is great. Just make sure the topic is broad enough and relevant #CMWorld
@Fawzy_Aya
Be ruthless with your copyediting. It’s good to get help. cc @KittermanMG @dwheeler11 @NickKellet #cmworld
@heidicohen
@ThinkSEM @kiporama @Beymour QUALITY CONTENT is king! #CMWorld 🙂
@SoMeDanielleP
A5: It helps to think in a series; try it, but don’t force it if it’s not there. #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
A4 Then, I ask, How urgently do my customers or prospects need the information? #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A4 Finally, I ask: Is the project practical for me at the present time? #CMworld
@Rogercparker
+1000 to blog post series. Just make sure the posts actually take your reader somewhere in the end. Some place…actionable. #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
@Ronda_Bowen @Beymour And you always want to invest time into creating evergreen content. That’s where the value is. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@Mr_McFly @Beymour Read words in reverse order or use edge of colorful ruler or envelope. Also makes errors easier to see. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
A5: Yes and no. #CMWorld contributors should be relevant to your blog theme
@connieurway
@CMIContent Don’t be mad I am not present. I just struck a new #contentmarketing business deal #CMWorld 🙂
@NenadSenic
A5. I’ve found blog post series to be helpful – but only if there is enough compelling content to engage over multiple posts. #cmworld
@dwheeler11
A5 Yes! Break up mega-topics into edible chunks. Use customer questions to guide series topics #CMWorld
@riverwordguy
A4. @SoMeDanielleP @ThinkSEM @Beymour Relevant, Quality Content is King is what I meant to type. #DontForgetQuality #cmworld
@kiporama
A5. A series can be a great way to get started. It gives you a theme and a goal to build off of. Feels less daunting every week #cmworld
@KittermanMG
@kiporama “I think relevance is king” @SoMeDanielleP @Beymour @ThinkSEM Agreed. Long live our relevant king! #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
A5: Series are about brevity. Series turn complex ideas into snack. Series also multiple SEO value of 1 big idea. #cmworld
@NickKellet
A4 #CMworld Please forgive misspelling in previous
@Rogercparker
@ThinkSEM @kiporama @SoMeDanielleP $ is king? 🙂 #CMWorld
@Beymour
true…don’t want to keep repeating yourself MT @mikemyers614: A5: It helps to think in a series; try it, but don’t force it #cmworld
@tracibrowne
@NenadSenic ya-hoo! Awesome! (But you’re still missed!) #cmworld
@CMIContent
A5: I really enjoy series because I think they bring audience members back for more. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
A4 I’ve had to admit I can’t do everything. I have to be very selective in what I commit to. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@kiporama @SoMeDanielleP @ThinkSEM lol clearly! #CMWorld
@Beymour
A5: As @NickKellet alluded to, it’s not a matter of productivity for #contentmarketing’s sake, but for your audience’s productivity #CMWorld
@Mr_McFly
MT @KittermanMG A5. A series can be a great way to get started. It gives you a theme and a goal to build off of. #cmworld
@CMIContent
@CMIContent A5: It could. We love series that are filled with repurposed content. The more diversified, the better. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
4 I have to frequently say “no” to myself. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A5: Generally, I try to decide on all or most of the topics for the series before beginning at all. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
@PatrickHayslett I always get ALL of my thoughts down, then go back and start editing. Also helps to start with your real message. #cmworld
@bragg_mike
@CMIContent A5 Always…Back to Back relative posts help productivity…reviews from readers help #CMWorld
@ankit1989
Strong writing requires habits & rituals. The process can be painful even for the best writers cc @CMIContent @PatrickHayslett #cmworld
@heidicohen
@dwheeler11 @IanGertler @KittermanMG Yikes! #Cmworld I invite and pleasure in typos. Imperfection always begins conversation.
@NickKellet
A4: Ask yourself: Will it help? Will it attract readers attn.? Fulfill biz goals? #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
A4 I love finding new ideas. But, I have to remind myself to “do what needs to be done” instead of being an online “idea junkie.” #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@mikemyers614 Yes. Not every post has to become a series. That’s overkill. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@mikemyers614 I agree. Think through the whole series before starting the first one. #CMWorld
@JeremyBednarski
A5 blog series = start strong, finish strong. Don’t assume same aud for Part 1 will be there for Part 5. Engage every step of way. #cmworld
@SusynEliseDuris
A4 I want to be remembered for what I’ve written, not what I’ve read or stored on Evernote. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@tracibrowne @dwheeler11 @NickKellet @KittermanMG No explanation needed … editor-at-heart here as well. #CMWorld
@IanGertler
@heidicohen It reminds me of training for a long distance race – consistent habits & rituals #CMWorld
@LyonsJenn
A4 If a client asks me to do a different task, I ask: Which of our current tasks do you want me to put aside? #CMworld
@Rogercparker
What she said. MT @TeriMKojetin: @CMIContent platforms (slides, video, etc.) may be better than a series. #cmworld
@webmastergirl
A5. Enough building blocks from unfiltered subject matter experts can make this work (considering everything else discussed, too). #cmworld
@kiporama
@SusynEliseDuris great thoughts on Q5! #cmworld
@CMIContent
A5: A frequent stumbling block with a blog series: clearly defining the umbrella concept & a punchy name for it. #cmworld
@pisarose
A5: I think weekly series are great, frequent enough to maintain interest but not overwhelming. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
@sugarsugarcg It’s like a TV show, always bringing visitors back to see what happens next. #CMWorld
@ThinkSEM
@SusynEliseDuris agree– each post in a series needs to be able to stand on it’s own + be a valuable part of the series. #CMworld
@SFerika
@PamFrostGorder Thanks for adding us to your #CMWorld 2015 list!
@WildfireContent
@CMIContent A5: Definitely, look at the topic from different angles and levels of expertise. Cuts a giant blog into 5 smaller ones #CMWorld
@AndyVale
@Fawzy_Aya I tend to create those by accident; start writing a post & if it becomes unwieldy, I break it into a series. #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
.@ThinkSEM Exactly! #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
A5: Eval if the content will impact one or two customer or will resonate across an audience #CMWorld
@LyonsJenn
@webmastergirl @CMIContent Thanks Angela! #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
.@CMIContent A5 We check Customer Service to see what customers need. FAQ series are helpful, especially on a once-a-month basis. #CMWorld
@dryvetyme
a5: An ROI focus ignores the value of the people who are “WIP”. All the people you’ve touched. That’s unquantifiable. #cmworld
@NickKellet
#CMWorld A5 A blog series can help with productivity in that (hopefully) as you can map it all out ahead of time.
@JeremyBednarski
A5: Yes, regular content attracts search engines & customers. Advance planning good & check your metrics to see what is a hit. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
That’s such a good analogy – like anything that “needs” to become a habit, the more you do it….. #cmworld @LyonsJenn @heidicohen
@LUCYrk78
@PatrickHayslett That is, write a single sentence before anything else stating what you want the reader to take away. Helps focus. #CMworld
@bragg_mike
@Mr_McFly @NickKellet thanks 4 sharing this perspective. @Beymour & others are discussing quality+relevance #CMWorld http://bit.ly/1yBWKtt
@jacobhenenberg
@SusynEliseDuris So true, Susyn! Excellent point. #SquishyMiddlesSuck #cmworld
@kiporama
@NickKellet spot on! #cmworld
@Beymour
@CMIContent And now I’m hungry…. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
@NenadSenic @CMIContent congrats Nenad! #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
That! MT @TeriMKojetin: @CMIContent platforms (slides, video, lists, podcasts etc.) may be better than a series. #cmworld
@NickKellet
A5: In terms of productivity, having an established series is really helpful to me. It’s great for when I’m stumped on topics. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
@tracibrowne A4 freelancer. I say no to projects based on gut feeling I will be miserable when writing #cmworld I agree, never turn out right
@Rogercparker
@NickKellet @CMIContent Thanks, Nick! #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
A4) Deadlines definitely help with productivity! Sometimes it’s hard to get started if there is no goal in sight #cmworld
@wyzowl
A5: It’s important to figure out which topics merit a series and which do not. A poor topic can result in a forced series. #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
@NickKellet @TeriMKojetin so so true! #cmworld
@CMIContent
A6: Create an outline and be clear on what point you are communicating #CMWorld
@LyonsJenn
@bragg_mike Exactly. Thesis > Stream of Consciousness #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
What’s the saying…writing is easy, just open a vein and bleed! #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
A6. It’s the story. It’s always about the story. Did I mention the importance of storyline in the content? #cmworld
@kiporama
@bragg_mike @PatrickHayslett Excellent ideas! #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
A5: What I love about series is it helps you uncover new ideas. Don’t be so rigid and to force these ideas from your process. #cmworld
@NickKellet
@SparkerWorks but every series should be able to stand alone as it’s own blog post with valuable information so they feel value #CMWorld
@Fawzy_Aya
A6. Goes back to planning ahead. Give your team plenty of notice and you’ll all give better results. #cmworld
@KittermanMG
@AnneJanzer @Rogercparker Yes! Or how many different projects I’ve come up with and tracked in my PIM. #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
Q6 Keep it simple. Deal w/ 1 thought at a time. Be sure tone & topic match your brand. #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@mikemyers614 ha ha ha had never heard that one! #cmworld
@CMIContent
A6: Practice. Practice. Practice #CMWorld
@connieurway
A6: Just DO it. #nikethatshit @CMIContent Q6: What are your best productivity tips for writing? #CMWorld
@LUCYrk78
Setting daily writing goals, and lots of coffee help us stay productive #Cmworld
@pubslush
This! @TeriMKojetin @NickKellet platforms (slides, video, lists, podcasts etc.) may be better than a series. #cmworld
@jacobhenenberg
A6. If something’s really not working, give yourself permission to step away. Come back to it tomorrow. Work on something else. #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
Q6 And for the love of everything, know about grammar. #creativewritingmajor #thosecommasthough #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@CMIContent Set your strategy with deadlines, research your target audience, AND the industry #CMWorld
@wyzowl
@CMIContent re: elements, map out a call to action to include in each post #CMWorld
@cliftonchestnut
@SparkerWorks so important to remember! #cmworld
@CMIContent
@kiporama A6. It’s the story. It’s always about the story. Did I mention the importance of storyline in the content? | Yes! #cmworld
@JedRecord
A6: Writing – The giving yourself permission for that bad first draft. Don’t edit as you write. It slows you down. Revise later. #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
@Fawzy_Aya Absolutely. #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@TeriMKojetin @CMIContent My experience lately is that platforms are massively outperforming blogs #CMWORLD
@NickKellet
What abt the story 🙂 MT @kiporama: A6. It’s the story It’s always abt the story. Did I mention the importance storyline in content? #cmworld
@Mr_McFly
@JeremyBednarski Agree. But good to stay aware of new trends & add those to blog posts too, when relevant. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
@SparkerWorks Yes, have multiple projects going on. #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
A6. Scheduling is key for productivity. Also, bookmarking ideas. #CMWorld
@contentbycara
@cliftonchestnut that pesky CTA! It’s a must! #cmworld
@CMIContent
@pubslush And snacks! : ) #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
A6. We use a lot of distraction free writing tools to encourage the process, as well as an editorial calendar to plan it all out. #CMWorld
@ClearVoice
@SoMeDanielleP I have a major comma addiction. #cmworld
@LUCYrk78
@NickKellet @CMIContent I think that’s often the case. #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
@CMIContent A6 In order to write I read a lot, I wake up early in the morning and for creating images I use @bannersnack #CMWorld
@katairobi
Had to reboot, sort of lost my place….#cmworld Next question?
@Rogercparker
A6. Step away & do something physical you see immediate results from: Clean a coffee cup, wipe down a counter, stretch. #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@LUCYrk78 me, too, :/ #cmworld
@Beymour
A6 for longer form (really any length) #content, implement good SEO practices. For images, alt text is a must + format for #SoMe. #cmworld
@SusynEliseDuris
@Mr_McFly Why won’t you consider the story, Gary? B^D #cmworld
@kiporama
Edit Later. Don’t edit as you go, write without looking back. Also, a glass of wine doesn’t hurt. #CMWorld
@hbarbara27
Each has own culture @jacobhenenberg @TeriMKojetin platforms (slides, video, lists, podcasts etc.) better than series. #cmworld
@NickKellet
@LUCYrk78 Don’t make me come over there! 😉 #cmworld
@SoMeDanielleP
@SusynEliseDuris And give ’em easy-to-find links so they can go back & read others in series. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
@alexmasica @AdamDince For content marketing + social, #sproutchat, #cmworld, #organikchat + #contentchat are good ones to check out!
@kayla_hollatz
@Rogercparker we’re on Q6 🙂 #cmworld
@CMIContent
Wow, that’s deep! MT @NickKellet: a5: An ROI focus ignores the value of the people you’ve touched. That’s unquantifiable. #cmworld
@webmastergirl
Does anyone else NOT like editorial calendars? Not sure why, but they bug me… #CMWorld
@LUCYrk78
A6. Our fav distraction free writing tools: https://www.clearvoice.com/zen-5-tools-distraction-free-writing/ #CMWorld
@ClearVoice
#CMWorld A6: Put together an outline to map the journey. Know where you’re starting, ending and what sites you’ll stop at along the way.
@JeremyBednarski
@CMIContent @cliftonchestnut that’s right. Omit CTA and it’s only “Cool story bro”. Include CTA responds to the reader’s “So what?” #CMWorld
@jacobhenenberg
@kiporama I always consider the story! #CMWorld
@Mr_McFly
A6 Make notes all the time. They’re the seeds of content to come. You can’t harvest tomorrow unless you plant today #CMWorld
@riverwordguy
@JeremyBednarski That’s pretty much what I do. It really helps! #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
A6: Go through content draft. Take out EVERYTHING you can and still make sense. Things taken out = starting pt for new content #cmworld
@PatrickHayslett
A6 I think Virginia Woolf said something about you can’t edit until you have all the words on the paper #longform #cmworld
@tracibrowne
@SparkerWorks Yes! Snacks & wine!! #CMWorld
@pubslush
A6: Brainstorm, outline, write, write, write, proof, have someone else proof, edit, & promote! get stuck? Take a break and go back #CMworld
@Fawzy_Aya
@LUCYrk78 Between our comma addictions and distaste for ed cals, I think we just became best friends 🙂 #cmworld
@Beymour
A6 Writing involves organizing ideas and time. Everything boils down to #Mind mapping software like @Mindjet’s MindManager. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
A6: to be a productive writer, make yourself write. Good ideas often come after you start. #CMworld
@AnneJanzer
A6. Our best productivity tips are early mornings, strong coffee, and a separate window for social media, to avoid distraction. #CMWorld
@outsider_nyc
@Mr_McFly @LUCYrk78 Why do you try to hurt me like this?! #cmworld
@SoMeDanielleP
That last 1 REALLY helps if I feel I haven’t crossed off enough to-dos (& tells me I should break things into smaller steps) #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@Mr_McFly #MoreStoryMoreCowbell #cmworld
@kiporama
@CMIContent Q6: Writing: Start Anywhere. If a beginning stalls, fill in the parts you know; go back as your ideas crystallize. #CMWorld
@msbaker
@TeriMKojetin @CMIContent you can create a series of slides, lists & videos. Author once to then publish per platform #cmworld
@NickKellet
A6 I use @MindManager to organize ideas, keep track of projects, and easily track influencers and ideas. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@SoMeDanielleP @Beymour I’m one of those writers that each time I take a breath when reading it, in goes a comma! #CMWorld
@LUCYrk78
@tracibrowne I think she also said something about being more productive with bacon. #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
Editorial calendars help me when I’m writing for someone else, but I have trouble with them with my own projects.@LUCYrk78 #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
A6: Outline, outline, outline! If I have time, I like to add to my outline throughout the day as I get new ideas, then write. #CMWorld
@sugarsugarcg
We actually have a post about maintaining creative flow on the blog – check it out after the chat http://blog.pubslush.com/5-tricks-maintaining-creative-flow/ #CMWorld
@pubslush
@SusynEliseDuris @tracibrowne love this #cmworld
@CMIContent
@CMIContent A6: Have another person on your team proofread your content. Do your research. Create branded visuals. Amplify! #cmworld
@ThinkSEM
A6 I’ve always liked this free PDF about Mind Mapping for marketing and writers http://tinyurl.com/Rogermind #CMWorld
@Rogercparker
@Beymour for LIFE! #CMWorld
@LUCYrk78
A6: Jot down ideas ASAP. I like Canva for images; quick to use. For long-form content, plan and research well before writing. #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
@webmastergirl With 15-20+ touches required per conversion, there’s a lot of unknown value in all the lurkers. #cmworld
@NickKellet
@msbaker @CMIContent Sometimes those tangents lead you to an even better idea! #cmworld
@ThinkSEM
A6 You can see how I use @MindManager to plan, write, and track my blog posts at http://contentmarketinginstitute.com/2014/01/organize-blog-content-post-tracker/ #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@mikemyers614 @tracibrowne bacon and wine FTW – I’m sure Virginia would agree. #cmworld
@dwheeler11
@LUCYrk78 @Beymour How often do you breathe?! Haha #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@hbarbara27 Wine or beer for creativity (brainstorming, early drafts), coffee for execution (& editing) is my rule! #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
A6: Image creation- Know your software! It helps so much. If you’re hunting for the different buttons, you’ll get tripped up. #cmworld
@Ronda_Bowen
@SusynEliseDuris @tracibrowne Ooo, I like that quote. #cmworld
@ThinkSEM
What a vibrant hub of conversation, perspectives and info sharing in #CMWorld today! Gotta leave early, have a great rest of week everyone!
@jacobhenenberg
@CMIContent: A6 for writing: Use a cloud like Evernote so you can tweak content whenever you get an idea, even at 12 a.m. #CMWorld
@webmastergirl
A6 With mindmaps, after you organize your ideas, you can export them for editing and formatting. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
Hi all #CMWorld, jumping in a tad late please can someone repost the question? Thanks!
@KDADouglas
Funny! @Ronda_Bowen Editorial calendars help me when I’m writing 4 someone else, but I have trouble with them with my own projects #cmworld
@LUCYrk78
As @MarketingProfs says (I’ll get this wrong) writing is a muscle that needs exercise…something like that. #CMWorld
@mikemyers614
A6: I need music and coffee before I start writing long content pieces. Also keeping a list of ideas whenever I think of something #CMworld
@Fawzy_Aya
@CMIContent @BuzzSumo is awesome for finding popular content. Can really help to inspire. #CMWorld
@wyzowl
@CMIContent @tracibrowne I love Virginia Woolf’s writing. Kidman’s Oscar win for the role, not so much. Just saying. #CMWorld
@SusynEliseDuris
@SparkerWorks @hbarbara27 I like the way you think. #cmworld
@dwheeler11
@jacobhenenberg Have a good one, Jacob! #cmworld
@Beymour
A6 Every content marketer needs a graphics program to create images for the blog posts and social media. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@Fawzy_Aya Both are very, very important things. #cmworld
@ThinkSEM
@pubslush Amen! #CMWorld
@SparkerWorks
@outsider_nyc Outsider, you & I should have a talk. We think alike!!! #cmworld
@EagleEyedEditor
Q7 Canva for shareable images. Evernote for organization. Excel sheets for everything. Folders all the time always. #CMWorld
@SoMeDanielleP
@NickKellet @CMIContent Exactly! #cmworld
@TeriMKojetin
A6 Options range from Photoshop (best and $$$) to @Canva—a low-cost online image-editing program. #CMworld
@Rogercparker
@CMIContent: A6 for images: Hire great graphic artists and share your vision with them. Be clear. Let them do their job. #CMWorld
@webmastergirl
@riverwordguy Liking your analogy George! Notes, bookmarking, screenshots. A collection of different “seeds” of content. #cmworld
@CrowdContent
@sugarsugarcg: A6: A good playlist is also great for my productivity, aka tuning people out.