When I started blogging, I had no idea what I was doing. I had worked in web devolpment for a couple of years so I knew the technical side of creating and maintaining a website but very little about creating content. I thought it would be easy but as I realised, having a great web design is only the start, it is the content that matters in the long run.
Technology has made it so easy for anyone with a computer, tablet or phone and an internet connection start creating content. There is so much noise out there that it can be difficult to be heard. There are now millions of blogs, Youtube channels, pod-casters, authors, designers and so many other creatives. The question is how do differentiate yourself so you can be successful.
1. Create Valuable Content
You need to be able to create content that is valuable to your audience. Each time people search for something on Google they are looking for a solution. Some people will be looking to be entertained by cats and some are looking for a recipe for a special meal. Create content that you would like to consume. It is easy to produce content that you are passionate about so that the people consuming it find value in it.
2. Be Unique
Your content needs to be unique for it to stand out. Sure you can find inspiration from other people but if you do exactly what they are doing it will be difficult for you to truly stand out. There are many Natural Hair Youtube channels but when Jouelzy started her channel she did it differently from what everyone else does. Jouelzy is known for talking about the controversial natural hair issues that few Youtube channels do and that way she was able to set herself apart.
3. Make it hard for people to imitate you
It is my opinion that the best solutions are always the easiest. However, when you create content you should try to make it hard for others to copy your work. This is easier said than done, but I believe if you put in the work it will be hard for those who would like to copy your idea. Protect your work and intellectual property by registering your copyright and trademarks.
4. Know how to deliver and manage your content
You can have the best content on the internet but ultimately it will be how you put everything together. You need to make sure that you use the right platform to deliver your content and you know when to do it. Would your videos work better on Vimeo or Youtube? What is the best time to post on Pinterest in your part of the world? During the winter months, I get more people downloading my hat patterns both crochet and knit. That means I have to have new patterns ready before the winter season.
These are the things that I consider each time I create something to share.