It is imperative that the content posted is of value and snackable – easily digestible and understood – to draw the audience’s attention. With individuals wanting seamless interactions online, quality content becomes the lifeline of social media.

If creative produces organic interaction (likes, shares, retweets), you will have captured an audience that will provide their full attention.

And in order to create enticing content, you first need to develop the right skills.

Here are six skills you need to develop in order to thrive:

1. Creative thinking and curiosity

You need to be able to think creatively. The first step of any content marketing strategy is the creation of that fantastic new idea that is creative and original.

Be curious. You need to be willing to ask, 'why?', 'what now?' or 'how can we help people?' when looking for ways to build your brand’s community.

2. Teachability and adaptability

With constant changes in the digital sphere, it isn’t about how much you know anymore. It’s far more important for you to know how to successfully navigate new tools, updates and channels, as these tools are becoming increasingly more relevant to customers.

3. Authentic storytelling

It’s only a buzzword if that 'buzz' has been buzzing for the last 17 000-odd years. Our third skill is the very important skill of 'storytelling'. Your brand stories should take your customer on a journey.

Going on a journey with someone creates a bond; and that bond will become your brand’s strongest asset. Storytelling is essential to content marketing because it creates the ability to weave your product, service or brand information into a narrative that is accessible, relatable and enjoyable.

By telling a story that interests your audience, you will not only maintain your audience’s loyalty and trust, but also encourage others to join.

4. Good communication 

Be polite, quick and offer value in your communication, as customers will respond positively to a brand that is working on building a relationship with them, consistently ensuring they have an experience with the brand as a result.

5. A single mindset

As a creative, all processes need to sync and be accounted for, so ensure that from the beginning (idea phase) to the end (posting), you have one transaction.

The look and feel must be similar to your other social media platforms. All posts should be effectively monitored using analytics to gauge engagement and sentiment.

It’s a learning cycle that requires an adequate amount of knowledge and project management to ensure that deadlines are met and that the audience is positively stimulated.

By having one look, feel and one team, you will have one focus, and it will become increasingly easier to execute your idea.

6. Passion

In a field that’s ever-changing, it’s important for you to have a true passion, even an obsession, for creating the very best content.

Sometimes it may feel a bit pointless in a world full of high-speed quality content consumption, but a little bit of passion and crafted care will ensure your brand’s content will always get your consumers’ approval.

For more information, visit www.brandtruth.co. You can also follow BrandTruth Integrated Content Practice™ on Facebook, Twitter or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of Vecteezy