How can you build a professional relationship with a content strategist?

1 Communicate your vision

The first step to building a professional relationship with a content strategist is to communicate your vision clearly and honestly. What are you trying to achieve with your content? Who are you targeting and why? What are the challenges and opportunities you face? How do you measure success? Sharing this information with your content strategist will help them understand your context, expectations, and preferences. It will also show that you value their input and expertise.

2 Respect their process

The second step to building a professional relationship with a content strategist is to respect their process and trust their judgment. Content strategists have a systematic and strategic approach to content creation and management. They may use tools and methods such as content audits, personas, user journeys, editorial calendars, style guides, and analytics. They may also have specific workflows and timelines for different stages of the content lifecycle. Don't interfere with their process or micromanage their work. Instead, ask questions, provide feedback, and collaborate with them.

3 Appreciate their skills

The third step to building a professional relationship with a content strategist is to appreciate their skills and recognize their value. Content strategists are not just writers or editors. They are also researchers, analysts, planners, managers, and consultants. They have a wide range of skills and knowledge that can help you optimize your content for your audience and your business. They can also teach you new things and help you improve your own skills. Show your appreciation by acknowledging their contributions, giving them credit, and rewarding them fairly.

4 Learn from their insights

The fourth step to building a professional relationship with a content strategist is to learn from their insights and apply them to your content. Content strategists are constantly monitoring and evaluating the performance and impact of your content. They can provide you with valuable insights on what works and what doesn't, what needs to be improved or updated, and what opportunities or trends you can leverage. Listen to their insights and act on their recommendations. This will not only improve your content quality and results, but also demonstrate your respect and trust for their expertise.

5 Seek their feedback

The fifth step to building a professional relationship with a content strategist is to seek their feedback and use it to grow. Content strategists are not only providers, but also consumers of content. They have a keen eye for detail, clarity, and consistency. They can offer you constructive and honest feedback on your content, whether it's your writing, design, or strategy. Don't be afraid or defensive to ask for their feedback. Instead, welcome it as an opportunity to learn, improve, and refine your content.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?