Content strategy is not only a skill, but also a community. You can benefit from the knowledge, support, and opportunities that your content strategy network offers, but you can also contribute to it in meaningful ways. In this article, we will explore some of the ways you can give back to your content strategy network and why it matters.
One of the simplest and most effective ways to give back to your content strategy network is to share your insights, experiences, and best practices with others. You can do this by writing blog posts, articles, newsletters, or books; by hosting or participating in webinars, podcasts, or workshops; by creating or joining online groups, forums, or chats; or by speaking at events, conferences, or meetups. Sharing your insights can help you establish your credibility, expand your reach, and inspire others to learn and grow.
One practical way to share your insights is by creating original research studies or case studies. These resources provide valuable insights and data that can inform and educate others in the industry. Additionally, they can serve as a valuable marketing tool for your agency by demonstrating your expertise and thought leadership. Another practical approach is to leverage social media platforms to share bite-size pieces of information, tips, or advice regularly.
One practice that is very important and interesting is sharing inspirations with other people. They have the power to enhance ideas and also to put them into practice.
In my own experience, writing blog posts that addresses pain points, talk about my struggles, methods,and insights go a long way in my content networking. We rise by lifting others. I want someone to say that because of me they didn't give up. Value addition and sharing my stories in podcasts and groups have been very helpful
Contributing to your content strategy network goes beyond mere participation - it's about actively enriching the community. Sharing valuable insights, engaging in discussions, offering mentorship, and contributing to open-source projects fosters a culture of collaboration. Hosting workshops, collaborating on research projects, and speaking at events are all avenues through which you can make a meaningful impact. By promoting diversity and inclusion, staying informed, and providing support, you play a crucial role in cultivating a dynamic and supportive community that ultimately benefits everyone involved.
Another way to give back to your content strategy network is to mentor or coach others who are interested in or new to the field. You can offer your guidance, feedback, and encouragement to help them achieve their goals, overcome their challenges, and develop their skills. You can also introduce them to other content strategists, resources, and opportunities that can support their career. Mentoring or coaching others can help you build meaningful relationships, enhance your own skills, and make a positive impact on the industry.
I am no mentor, nor coach - BUT (big but here) I talk to anyone who reaches out to me on this matter. I firmly believe that when you give your insights, you get something in return –?if you're open to it – all this that we do (produce mass content on digital platforms and the things we did before that also) is new, no one master it, so, be generous with what you have learned and share it, and while you are doing it, ask dumb questions. Be the mentored coached person yourself.
A third way to give back to your content strategy network is to volunteer your time or skills for a cause, project, or organization that you care about. You can use your content strategy expertise to help a non-profit, a social enterprise, a community initiative, or a professional association with their content needs. You can also join or lead a committee, a board, or a task force that works on content strategy issues or initiatives. Volunteering your time or skills can help you make a difference, broaden your perspective, and showcase your value.
Volunteering for nonprofits or political campaigns isn't just about giving back—it's about supporting causes you care about. In my case, it's opened new perspectives, business opportunities, and networking connections. You control your time commitment, whether it's writing articles, managing social media, or other tasks. Many organizations lack the budget for dedicated social media staff, so your help spreads their message further. By volunteering, you actively shape the world around you and make a difference in your community. Consider lending your time and skills—it's rewarding on many levels.
A fourth way to give back to your content strategy network is to collaborate or partner with others on content strategy projects or ventures. You can team up with other content strategists, writers, designers, developers, marketers, or researchers to create, deliver, or improve content solutions for clients, users, or audiences. You can also co-create or co-host content products, services, or events that offer value, education, or entertainment to the content strategy community. Collaborating or partnering with others can help you leverage your strengths, learn new skills, and create something amazing.
Partnering with fellow creators and startup enablers has helped me gain a vivid perspective of building startegy. It gives a great exposure to study multiple brands, their working style, their audience intent to buy, how to deliver a tailored strategy to different TAM, etc. And the best part is that you get to discuss all this with your mates and work towards a common goal towards the project's success.
One of the best ways to start is by connecting with individuals or organizations in your network who share your interests or expertise. You can reach out to people in similar areas like graphic design, SEO, social media management, or writing through email, social media, or networking platforms. Introduce yourself, express your admiration for their work, and ask if they would like to collaborate on a project. Show your commitment to the collaboration by actively contributing your resources, support, and expertise. Always meet your deadlines and fulfill your responsibilities reliably, responsively, and proactively.
A fifth way to give back to your content strategy network is to celebrate or support others who are doing great work in the field. You can recognize, appreciate, or endorse their achievements, contributions, or innovations. You can also recommend, refer, or promote their work, products, or services to others who might benefit from them. You can also provide feedback, advice, or assistance to help them overcome difficulties, solve problems, or improve their work. Celebrating or supporting others can help you foster trust, loyalty, and gratitude.
A sixth way to give back to your content strategy network is to engage or contribute to the conversation that is happening in the field. You can join, start, or follow discussions, debates, or trends that are relevant, interesting, or challenging for content strategists. You can also ask, answer, or comment on questions, issues, or topics that are important, useful, or curious for content strategists. You can also share, like, or bookmark content, resources, or tools that are valuable, informative, or fun for content strategists. Engaging or contributing to the conversation can help you stay updated, informed, and connected.
Do not offer advice, insight, your pov unless specifically asked for that’s the first rule. Content creators are not very open to feedback or suggestions. I know Everything is their mool-mantra. To give back to the network, you need to be a part of network that is “Open” to receive inputs.
By actively engaging with and contributing to your content strategy network, you not only give back to others but also foster a collaborative and supportive environment within the field. These efforts can lead to meaningful connections, shared learning, and a stronger, more vibrant community.