Are you struggling to come up with content ideas as a social media manager? We’ve all been there. Without a content strategy, you’ll feel like you’re on an endless content creation hamster wheel, writing just to check off a box. To help you get out of this rut, this blog post shares tips for endless content ideas and creating a solid plan
Why You Need a Content Creation System
Creating content for your business or clients, especially as a Social Media Manager, requires a system. Influencers and brands like Jenna Kutcher and Jasmine Star have robust content creation systems in place. This allows them to consistently produce high-quality content without burning out or running out of ideas.
However, you don’t need to produce as much content as these big names to be successful. What you need is a manageable system that fits your schedule and a clear content strategy. With these in place, you’ll have endless content ideas, a structured posting schedule, and content that truly serves your audience. This positions you as an authority in your niche and helps connect your audience to your brand.
Step 1: Understand Your Ideal Client
Before generating content ideas, you must understand your ideal client. Recently, a fellow social media manager messaged me on Instagram, saying she had no idea what to post. The root of her problem was a lack of clarity on her ideal client. Without knowing who you’re speaking to, coming up with content ideas is difficult.
Consider where your ideal client is in their business or life, their struggles, their goals, and how you can fill the gap. Remember, business is about your customer. Your content, whether educational, entertaining, inspiring, or promotional, should always benefit them.
Step 2: Have an End Goal in Mind
Every piece of content should have a purpose. Whether it’s an Instagram post, blog, or podcast episode, ask yourself why you’re creating it, what the end goal is, and what next step you want your customer to take. Instagram has a short shelf life, so think about how you can leverage content to drive traffic to other platforms like your website or blog.
Step 3: Utilize Content Pillars
Every piece of content should have a purpose. Whether it’s an Instagram post, blog, or podcast episode, ask yourself why you’re creating it, what the end goal is, and what next step you want your customer to take. Instagram has a short shelf life, so think about how you can leverage content to drive traffic to other platforms like your website or blog.
Content pillars are key topics or themes you want your brand to be known for. These should be relevant to your customer and provide value. I recommend having 3-5 content pillars that you rotate between. For example, as a SMM working with travel wedding photographers, your pillars might be content strategy, visibility for photographers, and living the freedom lifestyle. These pillars help you brainstorm a variety of topics and ensure you never run out of ideas.
Finding Content Ideas
- Pinterest: Use Pinterest as a search engine to find top-performing pins related to your pillars. For example, search for “Instagram marketing” to find popular topics like “How to Develop a Marketing Strategy” or “Must-Have Instagram Tools for Your Business.” Add these to a spreadsheet of content ideas.
- Podcasts: Scroll through episode titles of your favorite podcasts for inspiration. Find topics you can discuss from your unique perspective and relevance to your audience.
- YouTube Trending Topics: Search relevant keywords on YouTube to see what top videos are trending. This helps identify what people are interested in and finding valuable. Put your unique spin on these topics.
- Repurpose Past Content: Look at your analytics to see which content performed well. Repurpose these ideas into new formats like quotes, carousels, or reels to extend their lifespan.
By using these methods, you’ll have a steady stream of content ideas. Keep a Google Doc or Excel spreadsheet to jot down topics so you’re never stuck on what to post again.
Episode Links + Resources
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