Content marketing involves creating and sharing valuable and relevant content to attract and engage with potential customers. Content marketing uses various tools such as blogs, newsletters, social media posts, emails, and videos to deliver helpful information. When done well, it shows that a company cares about its customers. This can lead to increased brand recognition and more sales opportunities. If you are planning to pursue or pursuing B.B.A. (Hons.) digital marketing, here are some of the basics of content marketing that you need to know:

1. Benefits of content marketing

   Content marketing offers several benefits for businesses. It increases online visibility by attracting more consumers and website visitors. By sharing educational and informative content that aligns with the interests of the target audience, businesses can enhance their online presence. Content marketing is a powerful tool for lead generation. When the audience consumes a brand’s content, it increases the likelihood of future purchases from the business. Strategically placing calls-to-action (CTAs) within content can generate new leads. Content marketing also helps build trust amongst consumers. Another advantage of content marketing is fostering loyalty.

2. Stages of content marketing

   The process of content marketing involves three main stages. The first stage is called “Awareness”, which involves making potential customers aware of the brand and its products. This can be achieved by using various channels such as social media, emails, and blog posts. By providing informative and relevant content, brands can establish their value and increase recognition and interest among potential customers.

   The second stage is “Consideration”, where the consumer is familiar with the brand and actively considering it along with other options. This is a critical stage where brands need to use marketing strategies to influence consumer opinions. Articles, quizzes, and guides are commonly used tools to help potential customers see the benefits of choosing a particular brand over its competitors.

   The final stage is “Commitment”, where the consumer has been convinced of the benefits of the brand offerings and is now committed to making a purchase. This is the ideal time for brands to finalise the decision. By using strategic tools such as newsletters and FAQ guides, brands can showcase their competencies and skills to convince potential customers to choose their products and services.

3. Common skills required for content marketing

   Planning: Before diving into content creation, content marketers develop a well-thought-out content marketing strategy. They understand that each company has its distinct brand identity, which guides the type of content they produce and determines their target audience.

   • Writing and editing skills: Content marketers must be able to create compelling and engaging content to capture the attention of their target audience. Also, every single piece of content must undergo meticulous polishing and thorough examination before it is ready for publication.
   • Analysing skills: An important step in developing an effective content strategy is conducting a thorough competition analysis. A comprehensive competition analysis provides valuable insights that form the foundation of the content marketing strategy. It helps one gauge the amount of effort required to surpass the competitors in search rankings.
   • SEO skills: Understanding the fundamental principles of SEO and conducting thorough topic research are essential for content marketers to create valuable content that resonates with their target audience. Formats such as how-to guides, infographics, and checklists have proven to provide significant value to potential customers at the top of the marketing funnel. Moreover, even years after their creation, these types of posts continue to attract customers through Google search results.

Looking for B.B.A. (Hons.) colleges in India?

If you wish to pursue a career in content marketing, explore our B.B.A. (Hons.) Digital Marketing course. Some of the highlights of the course include:

• Experienced Faculty and Industry Experts: Learn from a team of well-experienced full-time faculty and industry professionals who deliver the courses.
• Hands-on Certifications: Gain practical exposure through certifications in Data Analytics and Excel, providing valuable skills in these areas.
• Holistic Development: Engage in multidisciplinary courses, including Liberal education topics such as Culture and Heritage, Human Relations, Understanding India, People and Politics, and Public Policy, for a well-rounded development.
• Contemporary Digital Marketing Subjects: Study relevant and contemporary areas in digital marketing, such as Fundamentals of Digital Marketing and Ecommerce, Digital Marketing Analytics and Affiliate Marketing, and Social Media and Content Marketing.
• Industry Exposure: Gain practical experience through a mandatory summer internship with industry partners, industry visits, and seminar series conducted by industry experts.