✍️ Getting Content Right: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Hi Reader,

Today, content is everywhere. From the moment we wake up to when we head to bed, it's in our inboxes, our social feeds, our news apps. For small businesses, leaning into content marketing is crucial. But with so many moving parts, it's easy to overlook some foundational elements.

Here are the most common content mistakes I see (and how to avoid them):

• Jumping in Without Clear Goals

  Content marketing isn't just about producing content—it's about producing the right content. To do that, you need a clear understanding of what you're trying to achieve. Having a goal is only half the story; setting clear expectations determines how you'll measure the effectiveness of your content.

• Missing the Mark on Knowing Your Audience

  Great content meets the audience where they are. If you aren't intimately familiar with their needs, preferences, and challenges, even high-quality content might miss the mark. Investing time in audience research isn’t just a step in the process is the foundation on which effective content strategies are built.

• Overlooking the Importance of Well-Crafted Writing

  No matter how revolutionary your product or service is, poor grammar and writing can undermine your message. It reflects a lack of attention to detail and can erode trust. Hiring skilled writers or investing in editing services can pay dividends in the long run.

• Prioritizing SEO Over Humans

  While SEO is undeniably important, remember it's real people reading your content, not algorithms. If your material sounds robotic or forced just to fit in more keywords, you'll lose your human audience quickly.

• Overloading Content with Sales Pitches

  Your audience is savvy. They know when they're being sold to, and they don't always appreciate it, especially if it's constant. Instead, focus on adding genuine value—solve a problem, provide insights, and entertain them. Sales will naturally follow when your audience sees the value you provide.

• Ignoring Data & Analytics

  If you're not measuring, you're just guessing. Regularly check the performance metrics of your content to know what's working and what's not. This data-driven approach ensures you’re always improving and resonating with your audience.

• Producing Content Without a Marketing Plan

  Creating outstanding content is just half the battle. Without a clear marketing strategy, even the best content can go unnoticed. Whether it's leveraging social media, email marketing, or collaborations with partners, ensure you have a plan to get your content in front of your desired audience.

The key takeaway here is that content marketing doesn't have to be overwhelming. Keep it simple: focus on your audience, craft quality content, and don't lose sight of the human element. You've got this.

Best,

Jono
vervology® founder