Look at your 2023 Content Strategy as we head into a New Year soon. Because think about it like this; nothing can feel worse than scrambling at the last minute to come up with a social media post idea, right?
But then you quickly write something to get it up there or share some random image. And, what’s even worse is to discover, after you hit the post button, that your post makes little sense to your brand or offers little value to your audience.
The thing, however, is that sometimes the last minute can be a good thing. It could be an adrenaline rush or the pressure, the emotional reaction to something. Sometimes it can be the most incredible post you’ve ever put out there.
But more often, it’s not.
You see, when we create content in ‘last-minute mode, ‘we end up rushing or not thinking things through. It could be typos, or you even find that our post’s intention needs to be revised, or you had no real purpose behind it!
That is why there’s a much better way to plan your content. A method that takes into account your 2020 content strategy and your goals for the long term.
What if you could plan your content for an entire year?
So, before you think we’re going a little crazy talking about planning out posts for an entire year, know this — it’s easier than you might think.
Additionally, planning out your content in advance can help even those last-minute additions by giving you an existing content strategy. As a result, you will have more room for those value-driven, curiosity-peaking, business-focused content.
There are three easy-to-follow steps to get you away from being a last-minute-throw-it-all-together-last-minute-professional.
… and towards being a more prepared, polished and intentional content creator. Make your 2023 Content Strategy one that sets the bar for others in your niche. Be the ‘example‘ people are looking to when it comes to solid content creation and one that highlights your expertise.
3 Steps to a Rockstar 2023 Content Strategy
Step One: Think Strategy First, Creativity Second.
The very thing you need to do is audit your current social media status. Make notes on a few areas you struggled with in the previous year. For example, your content didn’t offer your audience enough in certain areas, or you were too sales-focused or otherwise.
Once you’ve identified your weaker points, it’s time to move toward your goals.
What do you want to accomplish this month?
2023 (and beyond)?
Do you want to attract more customers? Would you like to share more about your story? Whatever your goals are, you can always structure your content to help you achieve them.
This is our favorite task – the creative part. And it just entails thinking about social media post ideas and then writing down anything and everything in your head. A suggestion made to us in the past was to voice record our thoughts – that way, we didn’t struggle to get them out onto paper.
This activity makes you think creatively and a little more outside of your comfort zone.
So block off 20 -40 minutes to get out all the ideas that come to mind. For example, if you post about clean living, start thinking of all the strategies you’ve used in your home, with your family, your body, etc. The old-school brainstorm sheets can work well here, too, if pen-to-paper is still your jam.
Step Two: Time to get Organized.
Take a moment to peek back at your brainstorming activity. First, cross off any ideas that won’t work with the main topics you generally cover. Then, look at your current goals and cross off any statements that aren’t helping you crush them.
Main Topic categories may include;
- Family
- Personal Story
- Product Posts
- Business Posts
- Lessons or Teachable moments
You should still have an extensive but more refined list.
Start taking the remaining ideas and placing them into your categories. Once your ideas have found their home within the categories, you can start to set goals for each post or even specific calls to action. This is a great exercise to get you thinking about which posts might make great new curiosity posts and ones you are more explicit with your business.
Remember, your social media profiles should have a good balance of personal vs. business. So without question, make sure your 2023 Content strategy reflects this!
From here, you want to start building out your calendar. It is generally recommended you post twice per day. So that’s roughly 14 times per week.
If you are focused on planning out your year, this would be about 728 posts. OK, catch your breath and pick up your jaw! At least half of these posts will be images; family photos, something you bought, selfies, a memory, etc.
So before you freak out … (and jump through the screen at us!), find comfort that the number sounds much larger than it is.
Quick Tip: Set up a Pinterest board to store all your images. This is a great way to have pictures ready whenever you need them. Then, all you have to do is add a caption or some narrative when you post it! Or, check out our 365 customizable image quotes for an even more efficient turnaround visually! Here are those details.
Step Three: Start Writing!
Now that you have a content strategy, it’s time to get the words flowing. We stay about 7-10 posts ahead of the desired posting date. This is a great way to have a chunk of content ready to go in case the inspiration strikes you at a different time than you need it to.
Remember, this may include images, current event posts, etc. Stick to your primary content categories, and you will be in great shape! You might call them your ‘content pillars.’
An excellent way to stay ahead of the game regarding content creation is to chunk your time each week to knock out those 7-10 posts. Then, break those chunks up if you need to – or consider outsourcing some content even.
Final Thoughts on Creating your 2023 Content Strategy
You and your business deserve the best, and you will thank yourself over and over throughout the year if you take the time to create a solid plan. As entrepreneurs, we’re in this for the long haul. So keep the areas that are often the most lucrative.
Although we have built our business(es) in a hybrid space of both offline and online, having a strategy applies across the board. Think about it; you would never show up to a meeting or presentation and wing it (well, you shouldn’t anyway!).
In the comments, let us know what topics you will have on your 2023 content strategy.
