Content Marketing Productivity Tips: A #CMWorld Chat with Roger Parker

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.

 

Q1: What are the essentials of #contentmarketing productivity? #CMWorld

 

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 [email protected] + 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

 

[email protected] Being extra-picky regarding which #contentmarketing webinars you attend for insights. #CMWorld

@dryvetyme

 

[email protected] 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

 

Q2: What are some habits that successful content marketers share? #CMWorld

 

@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

 

Q3: What is the first thing you do when starting a new blog post? What about the last thing? #CMWorld

 

@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

 

Q4: Part of productivity means saying no. How do you evaluate what you should not do in content marketing? #CMWorld

 

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

 

[email protected] 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

 

[email protected] 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

 

Q5: Can a blog post series help your productivity? What are some ways to decide on topics/frequency/elements? #CMWorld

 

@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

 

[email protected] 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

 

[email protected] 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

 

Q6: What are your best productivity tips for writing? For creating images? For longer-form content? #CMWorld

 

@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 [email protected] #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

 

Q7: We talk a lot about documents/templates/tips. What are some resources for content marketing productivity? #CMWorld

 

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.

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