As the new year comes ever closer, it’s the perfect time to reflect on 2017 – and make plans for 2018 that will bring your business to the next level.
2017 has been a banner year in content marketing. Amazing new technologies have emerged alongside best practices that make a lasting difference. Brands are developing better content than ever; customers are getting true value.
However, there’s always room for improvement!
Let these five marketing resolutions be your guide in 2018.
1 Resolve to Be More Consistent
In any relationship, consistency creates trust. For content marketers, an editorial calendar helps establish the rhythm that makes true consistency possible. Set clear expectations and hard deadlines – then, you’re empowered to upcycle blog posts into a complete content ecosystem.
2 Resolve to Use Your Web Data
Data helps you prioritize and focus your efforts on what matters most to your users. Still, there is a learning curve that can be nerve-wracking. It’s time to connect with your resident data expert or start cultivating an in-house analytics leader who can translate information into real insights.
3 Resolve to Listen to Your Clients
Modern digital marketing brings with it a lot of complexity. When things seem overwhelming, the best way to clarify is by returning to the source: Your customers. Make their needs, worries, and questions the North Star of your efforts and you’ll steer clear of time-consuming fads.
4 Resolve to Exemplify Your Values
Your company’s brand should be on clear display across all your content. A brand isn’t just a name or a “look and feel,” but a set of values. When values are at the center, it helps you differentiate and build trust. Use a checklist to ensure all new content is fully aligned.
5 Resolve to Keep Moving Forward
New techniques and tactics are always emerging in the digital marketing world. The key is to pilot, learn what works well for you, and discard what doesn’t. Resolve to avoid “paralysis by analysis” by selecting one new capability that you can fully embrace and integrate every quarter.
When individuals set out to make resolutions, they often have trouble sticking to them. A lack of resources and reinforcement can doom even the best intentions. Luckily, your marketing department has momentum it can grow on.
To get off to the right start, try this:
- Decide which resolutions are the most important and necessary for your team;
- Create a visual reminder that everybody will be able to see in the workspace;
- Identify first steps and give each person one objective to focus on.
With this simple method, everyone can be involved and invested in making positive change – and 2018 can be your best year yet.