Your client is pushing for changes to the content strategy. How will you navigate this unexpected shift?

Take a moment to really understand how the proposed changes will affect your content strategy. Consider things like the extra time, budget, and resources needed. This helps you set realistic expectations for yourself and your client and ensures you're making informed decisions.

Before taking action, evaluate the proposed changes. Understand how they will affect your content's performance, audience engagement, and overall marketing goals. Consider the resources needed to implement these changes, such as additional time or budget. By fully grasping the impact, you can make informed decisions and set realistic expectations for both you and your client.

Working with clients on their content strategy has to be a collaborative process. Yes, we have the marketing expertise and experience, but it's their brand that we're representing. First off, I'd consider whether the changes will move them closer or further away from the goals we've agreed we want to achieve from their content strategy. Closer? If it won't negatively impact the user experience or break the constraints of our contract, no problem. Let's give it a go. Further away? I'd start an open and non-confrontational discussion (not over email) to help them understand the effect of the changes they're proposing, and work towards a mutually agreeable solution. Armed with reasoning and examples!

4 steps to communicate effectively with your clients: Step 1 Initiate an open dialogue to understand your client’s reasons for desired changes. Step 2 Listen actively to their concerns and objectives. Step 3 Share your professional insights on how the changes could influence the content strategy. Step 4 Strive for a collaborative approach that merges your client's vision with your expertise. Do what's required and get the results desired.

Start with - WHY, HOW, WHEN, WHAT! WHY - Why do they need to change the strategy? What's the end goal? Are we not achieving the same with the current strategy? HOW - How are they planning to implement the change? What plan do they have in mind? What kind of budget, resources, and tools are they open to including? WHEN - When are they planning to implement the strategy? How soon are they expecting results? WHAT - What happens if this strategy fails? What is the backup plan?

Adapting your content strategy is essential after understanding the client's needs and discussing potential implications. This may involve reshaping your editorial calendar, exploring new content formats, or redefining your target audience. Ensure that every adjustment aligns with client expectations while maintaining the integrity of your content marketing objectives. By strategically adapting your approach, you can effectively meet client demands and enhance the overall impact and relevance of your content. This flexibility is key to sustaining successful client relationships and achieving long-term marketing goals.

Gradual changes in our content strategy help to optimize effectiveness and minimize disruption. Monitoring each adjustment helps us refine what resonates with our audience. This approach maintains flexibility, adjusting strategies based on real-time feedback. It ensures our content initiatives achieve maximum impact through iterative refinement. Methodical implementation aligns our efforts with market trends, enhancing agility in driving engagement and meeting business goals.

If you notice your clients frequently changing strategies, it's essential to address this in your contract. Constantly altering the strategy can lead to a lack of results. Marketing efforts take time to show their impact. Clearly communicate to your client how much time you need to deliver the desired results. If they decide to change the strategy mid-term, explain that the outcomes of previous campaigns may be affected.