Stakeholders clash over content styles on a platform. How do you find the right balance?

Finding the right balance when stakeholders clash over content styles requires a strategic approach. Begin by aligning everyone with the platform's overall goals and target audience preferences. Facilitate a discussion to understand the reasoning behind each style preference, identifying common ground. Consider adopting a hybrid style that incorporates key elements from each perspective while ensuring consistency with the brand voice. Testing different styles and using data to determine what resonates best with the audience can also guide the final decision, ensuring the content is both effective and cohesive.

Developing a comprehensive content strategy is your next step. This strategy should outline your goals, target audience, and key messages. Start by conducting a content audit to assess existing materials and identify gaps. Define the types of content you’ll product. i.e. blogs, videos, infographics, or podcasts—and establish a content calendar to schedule and organize your efforts. Consider the distribution channels you’ll use to reach your audience effectively, whether through social media, email newsletters, or your website. A well-defined content strategy will help ensure consistency, engagement, and alignment with your overall brand objectives.

When stakeholders clash over content styles on a platform, finding balance through creative compromise involves understanding each party’s priorities and identifying common ground. - Start by facilitating a discussion to uncover the core goals behind each style preference. - Then, explore hybrid solutions that incorporate elements from both styles, ensuring that the final approach aligns with the platform's objectives. For instance, if one stakeholder favors formal content and another prefers a casual tone, consider blending these by using a professional tone with conversational elements. By being flexible and focusing on the overall vision, you can craft content that satisfies all parties.

The great thing about content strategy is that it can be measured with data, leaving plenty of room for innovation. If something works, you may not want to change it, but there's always the opportunity to experiment with new channels, formats, and distribution strategies. Bring your stakeholders together to discuss current strategies and ongoing efforts. Communicate that with the right resources, budget, and tools, there's space for experimentation and growth—while also understanding that occasional failures are part of the process.