Top 7 Reasons Why Your Content Isn't Working

These are the top 7 reasons why writing content on social media isn't working for you. Number 6, by the way, should hit you in the stomach because it is (unfortunately) all too common.

if you write content on social media (whether consistently or not) and aren't satisfied with your results, this list will help you. If you're not getting the reach or the revenue you want from your content (or both), I wrote this for you.

The principles you’ll derive from this list are based on sales and marketing psychology, so they apply universally across industries and niches. They also apply to various social media platforms as well.

Let's dive into it!

1. You don't know which questions you're answering.

It sounds basic, but the best content strategy is to answer a question.

Then, you answer all related sub-questions.

For example, the question I answer is “How can you write well, fast, and effectively?” From there, millions of other questions arise.?

In my coaching and consulting practice, I help clients look at their communication from a very simple standpoint: communicating is all about answering questions (Who, What, Why, How, Where, etc.) Many find this a game-changer.

2. You haven't studied the platform where you post.

Blog articles are different from LinkedIn posts.

LinkedIn posts are different from Tweets (duh!)

What you talk about, how you talk about it, and why you write it depends on the platform where you publish. Each platform has a purpose, a user state of mind, and a personality. Great content accounts for this.

I’ve mastered writing because I’ve studied many genres and many platforms. And as a result, I've become observant and adaptable in my craft.

3. You don't wage war against constraining beliefs.

People don't need more information; they need transformation.

Help people understand what holds them back. Show how they can break free from the shackles of their minds. That will make your content work for you and generate more sales.

A lot of people teach too much in their content. Teaching is honorable, but people don't always value teaching (especially when it's free).

Challenging your readers may not make you more liked, but it will earn you more respect and clients. And isn't it what you're here for?

4. Your content isn't formatted the way it should be.

Good design is universal.?

But every platform and every algorithm is different.

Part of studying your platform consists of understanding the preferred formatting.

On LinkedIn, for instance, it’s ideal not to exceed three lines per paragraph. At the same time, varying paragraph length makes your posts more readable. Ultimately, you need to strive for readability and engagement.

5. You're inconsistent with your content strategy.

I see a lot of entrepreneurs post randomly and without intent.

To make your content work for you, have an overall plan of what to write and why. For example, you could be publishing 50% narrative posts, 25% value posts, and 25% promotional posts.

It all depends on your business, market, and offer.

Some people still manage to make money without a strategy, but they’re leaving a LOT of money on the table.

6. You downplay your own authority in your field.

This one is very common — and a real tragedy!

It’s okay to quote other experts, talk about other people in the industry, and so on. But don’t do so at your own expense. That's a mistake.

You started your business because you are an expert. You have authority. And you have a specific angle. There is nothing virtuous about hiding behind other people.

Share your thoughts. Express your opinions. Take your place in the world.

7. You don't share anything personal at all, ever.

You may not want to share your personal life online, and that’s okay!

But sharing anecdotes and stories shows your character and personality. It makes you more likable, makes your content more compelling, and increases your sales.?

Think about the things you like about yourself and don’t mind sharing.

Using those in your content will up your content game.

Content is about strategy and nuances

What you should take away from these top 7 reasons why your LinkedIn content isn't working is that for your LinkedIn content to work, you need:

• A solid overarching strategy tailored to your goals;
• An understanding of the platform you're using;
• A writing mindset (authority, consistency, and personality).

With these, you should be able to create content that works for you quickly and effectively — or outsource it.

If you would like more personalized advice on how to implement this for yourself, book a free, 15-minute introductory conversation. We'll discuss your business and your content, and I'll help you find the right way forward.

P.S. Which reason made you feel the most attacked? Let me know in the comments!