Are You Making This Mistake With Your Content Strategy?

More than likely you are, since most of us have been guilty at some point (some of you are repeat offenders...no one has to know it's you; just keeping look straight ahead). This is even more likely if you're a first generation entrepreneur, woman founder and/or in the digital space.

In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and marketing - especially in the digital space - staying informed and updated is crucial. However, there's a common pitfall that many fall into: consuming more content than they create. This pattern can be detrimental to one's professional growth and overall success. Let's dive into why this mistake is perhaps even more problematic than some think.

The Vicious Cycle of Content Consumption

Problem 1: Overwhelm and Information Overload

It's no secret that the internet is flooded with information. Women entrepreneurs, often aspiring to excel in their chosen field, as well as chasing perfection, tend to become voracious consumers of digital content. We dive into a never-ending sea of blog posts, podcasts, webinars, online courses, and social media updates. The result? Overwhelm. It's easy to get lost in the endless stream of advice, tips, hacks, tricks and trends. The constant influx of new information can make decision-making, and implementation, challenging.

Imagine that. What we claim is our most important objective, taking action, gets delayed or denied because all the information we're consuming to better prepare us to take action overshadows us taking action. Read that again as needed.

Problem 2: Procrastination in the Guise of Learning

One of the most deceptive aspects of content consumption is the belief that it's productive. Entrepreneurs often convince themselves that they're "learning" and "improving" by consuming content. While learning is vital, it should always translate into action. Unfortunately, many fall into the trap of procrastination, postponing real work because they're too busy learning how to do it.

Problem 3: Comparison and Imposter Syndrome

In the age of social media, the success stories of other women entrepreneurs are frequently paraded before us. Consuming content that showcases their achievements can inadvertently lead to comparison and imposter syndrome. Women start doubting their own abilities and feeling inadequate in comparison to others who seem to have it all figured out, or have generated six figures in a weekend (we don't question whether they can maintain or duplicate those results). All that comparison can paralyze creativity and hinder progress.

Another possible, detrimental result of this mistake that's not talked about enough...

Lack of originality and creativity

Originality and innovation are critical in this increasingly digital-driven, fast-moving marketplace. Overconsumption can lead to "copy-paste" entrepreneurship and marketing, where we mimic what we see or hear without adding our own unique touch. This results in weak value propositions and a lack of differentiation. Of course that can give your competition an advantage, and give your sales the blues.

Creativity thrives when the mind is clear and open to possibilities. Constant content consumption, when strategy and intention is absent, as well as without implementation, can stifle creativity. Creating content, whether writing, designing, videos or even planning, is where innovation often finds its roots.

One solution...

Just as you have revenue and other goals, you should have goals for your content, which should be tied to your marketing and sales. Unless you're a full-time content creator, you're not creating content just to do so, or to gain more followers, views and clicks.

Effective content should help you make real connection with your prospective ideal clients, increase credibility, and drive leads.

So being intentional in your content strategy is critical. For example, batching content can be powerful and save a ton of time.

Also identifying the best platforms and tools for leveraging to maximize your content. If you're not getting the results you want after taking consistent action for six months or longer on Instagram (provided it's action aligned with your goals, brand, etc), perhaps you should explore other options. Even if you love IG, IG may not love you. LinkedIn or YouTube or TikTok may offer better results.

If you need more support with either developing a customized content strategy or done-for-you content, let's connect. Comment below or message me. One of the sweet spots of my consultancy, SWAG Strategy Solutions, is content marketing strategy. I often say, before you can get people to pay, you have to get them to pay ATTENTION.

If you want an amazing FREE resource that also addresses the content consumption trap, along with six other mistakes that not only hurt content, but also your brand and bottom line, grab it here.

Until next time, take care and take some action!