When Google announced it would be using content to validate worthwhile websites and experts in its super secret way (aka its algorithm), companies clamored to create content. What most didn’t understand was that Google wasn’t saying the site with the most content wins. It was looking for quality content; but it’s view of “quality” and that of your high school English teacher is different.
Much different.
For Google to notice you and your brand, you need good quality content but quality is a designation only your audience can give. And your audience has to be larger than your mom and best friend. That’s where “content marketing” comes in.
Content marketing is not sales-y. It’s helpful. If you do it wrong, you’ll alienate your audience and Google will shun you. There’s a lot at stake so you want to make sure you’re doing it right.
What is Content Marketing?
It’s not a new concept, but just like so many other things in life, we’ve finally given name to something that’s been around for years. John Deere and Michelin (tires) were among the first companies that created content in order to help their audience and to sell more products. Because when you help someone, they remember it.
But how can you have the same success?
Luckily, you don’t have to go it alone. There are a number of leaders in content marketing and we can learn a lot from them. Here are some great examples.