#ContentWritingChat Recap: How to Create Authority Content for Serious Return in Your Blogging with Julia McCoy
Are you wondering how to create authority content for your blog to see major results online? This week’s #ContentWritingChat is especially for you! Our chat participants shared some amazing advice that will have you creating high-quality content in no time at all.
#ContentWritingChat Recap: How to Create Authority Content for Serious Return in Your Blogging with Julia McCoy
Welcome to #ContentWritingChat! Today, @JuliaEMcCoy is guest hosting to talk about authoritative content! ? Who is ready to chat?! pic.twitter.com/ddWN2fk00b
— Express Writers (@ExpWriters) August 15, 2017
Our CEO, Julia McCoy, joined in as a guest host for this week’s chat. Considering she provides valuable content on our own blog and for other websites, she’s a great person to teach all of us how to create authority content. Now, let’s dive into the recap!
Q1: 2 million blogs go out daily. How can you create content that positions you as an authority in your field online?
There are obviously a lot of blog posts being published on a daily basis. This makes it hard to stand out online, but it can be done if you position yourself as an authority. How do you do that? Check out this advice from the chat:
A1 Have something to say that matters. 1) Know your audience 2) Write to be read 3) Be consistent with showing up. #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/hAIVhxyyWM
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
Julia’s advice is to have something to say that actually matters. She says you need to know your audience, write to be read, and be consistent by always showing up.
A1: Know your audience so you can connect with them. By doing so, your audience will trust you, which builds authority. #contentwritingchat
— Netvantage Marketing (@netvantage) August 15, 2017
Lexie’s advice is to make sure you know your audience so you can truly connect with them. This is going to help you build trust, therefore establishing you as an authority with your targeted audience members.
A1a: Provide practical/actionable solutions to challenges your target audience needs help addressing. #ContentWritingChat
— Javier Sanabria (@SanabriaJav) August 15, 2017
When you provide practical, actionable advice that addresses the needs of your audience, they’ll appreciate you for it. When they see that you can solve their problems, it starts to build your authority and keeps them coming back for more.
A1: Using data & citing reliable sources to back up whatever it is you are saying are great ways to establish authority. #ContentWritingChat
— Simply Measured (@simplymeasured) August 15, 2017
Don’t forget that you need to use data and cite sources to back up the points you make. You don’t want anyone questioning whether or not your content is reliable.
A1. Try not to focus on all those other blogs. Do your thing and do it better than anybody else. #ContentWritingChat
— YourWebContentWriter (@WebContent4U) August 15, 2017
Focus on YOU. You should always strive to do your best when you create authority content.
A1 #funfact Authority is only given to those who earn it. Dedication to your audience and to good writing is key. #contentwritingchat pic.twitter.com/cE76cBc2qq
— HeyOrca! (@HeyOrca) August 15, 2017
If you want to be an authority, you have to earn it. Kristen said you need to be dedicated to your audience and to quality writing.
Q2: Discuss how to find and reach your audience personally to create authoritative content at is of specific value to them.
Are you wondering how to find and reach your audience when creating content online? Here’s what you need to know:
A2a New audience discovery: research your market w/ Facebook Audience Insights & Google surveys #ContentWritingChat
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
A2b Existing audience discovery: survey your list with a form that asks them questions. Call a few clients up. #ContentWritingChat
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
Julia shared some great tips for getting to know your audience. She suggested researching your market with Facebook Audience Insights and Google surveys. For your existing audience, you can email your list a survey that asks questions you want answers to. Then, hop on the phone with a few clients and have a chat.
A2: This is where #sociallistening comes into play. To provide value, you have to know what your audience needs. #ContentWritingChat
— Simply Measured (@simplymeasured) August 15, 2017
Social listening is a great way to essentially eavesdrop on your audience. Figure out which platforms they spend the most time on and locate them. Pay attention to what they’re posting and talking about.
A2. Most of the time, I find my audience through Twitter chats because this platform is so cool #contentwritingchat
— Cheval John (@chevd80) August 15, 2017
A great way to perform social listening is through Twitter chats. Cheval knows how beneficial they are when it comes to finding your target audience.
A2: Visit online forums/chats where the audience discusses their challenges; craft content around those conversations. #ContentWritingChat
— Javier Sanabria (@SanabriaJav) August 15, 2017
Javier suggests checking out some online forums and chats where your audience is hanging out. Be present on those platforms by engaging with your audience. Figure out what they’re struggling with and you can create content that solves their problems.
A2: Explore/ join Facebook Groups. Discover your audience + their FAQs. Create content based on those questions. #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/5ZGVXO0dq3
— Beth Farris (@bethbabble) August 15, 2017
Facebook Groups are a great place to hang out! You just need to find the ones your audience spends their time in. Then, pay attention to what they’re saying!
A2: Look at your data and then ask ?’s. We need to stop assuming and start listening to our audience. #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/sQuwvLljhW
— Seth Waite (@Seth_Waite) August 15, 2017
As Seth pointed out, we can also learn a lot about our audience from the data we’ve already obtained. Check out your Google Analytics to learn more about who your audience is and what they’re interested in, for example.
Q3: What is one of the top authority content formats that earns SEO rankings, authority, speaking gigs, and organic leads?
What’s the winning content format that can do all of those things for your online presence? Here’s what some participants from our chat had to say:
A3 Blogging! Through consistent blogging every week for years, some of the top industry names have built their authority #ContentWritingChat
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
For Julia, she’s all about the power of blogging. She knows the benefit that high-quality, written content can have.
A3: I think any format, as long as it’s REALLY good, unique info that you can’t find anywhere else. #contentwritingchat
— Lauren Kaye (@Laurenekstrandk) August 15, 2017
Lauren feels that when you create authority content, any format can work. It’s more about providing good, unique information for your audience to consume.
A3 Depends on the industry/audience. Some build careers on YouTube. Others build authority through ebooks. #contentwritingchat
— Lex (@estherproject) August 15, 2017
As Lex said, it can also depend on your industry and your audience. You have to figure out what works best for your target audience, but also what works well for you in terms of creation.
A3: Case studies with quantitative, relevant outcomes, featuring a customer with high brand equity. #contentwritingchat
— Shelly Lucas (@pisarose) August 15, 2017
Shelly knows that case studies can get major results when shared online.
A3:
SEO > Blog posts that are 2000+ words.
Authority/Speaking > Podcasts or Vlogs
Organic Leads > Valuable downloads#ContentWritingChat— Beth Farris (@bethbabble) August 15, 2017
Beth recommends writing blog posts that are at least 2,000 words to boost SEO. To build authority and speaking, she suggests trying podcasts or video. And for organic leads, valuable downloads are a great opportunity.
Q4: If you outsource content that positions you or a client as an authority, how can you make sure the writer is at that level?
If you’re going to outsource your content creation, you’ll want to make sure you choose a great writer. You want someone with experience and skills so you’ll be confident they can get the job done. Here’s some advice when it comes to outsourcing your writing:
A4 Hire a writer with these two skill asset points: a) industry knowledge in your field b) amazing online writing skills #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/TohYTv25eU
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
A4 Once you hire a great blog ghostwriter, never stop working closely with them, rewarding them, and helping them grow #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/TYSEBjz0BT
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
Julia’s advice is to hire a writer that has industry knowledge in your field and amazing online writing skills. Once you do hire someone, she suggests that you continue to work with them closely. Reward your writers and help them grow to encourage progress.
A4: Vetting. If you’re offering a first timer a chance, it can be cheaper, but risky. #ContentWritingChat
— Jack Appleby (@JuiceboxCA) August 15, 2017
As Jack said, hiring a first timer might be cheaper, but it’s also risky. You don’t want to waste your money on works that’s below your standards or littered with errors. You’re better off vetting writers to find the right fit.
A4: You vet them like it’s an in-home nanny service for your only child.
Check their work — a lot of it. #ContentWritingChat https://t.co/IUCgPyPTPk
— ThinkSEM (@ThinkSEM) August 15, 2017
Sarah agrees that a vetting process is essential. She suggests checking a lot of their past work to ensure they have the skills you need.
A4: References from other bloggers or industry professionals will give you the best writers. #ContentWritingChat https://t.co/zeLgT5QKtg
— Carlarjenkins (@carlarjenkins) August 15, 2017
As Carla pointed out, getting references is always a great idea. See if there are any other bloggers or industry professionals that can recommend someone. It’s always great when someone can vouch for their work.
A4. Request samples first in that area of knowledge. Then review writer’s 1st assignments to make sure they’re on point. #ContentWritingChat
— Ken Hart (@KenHartWriter) August 15, 2017
Ken suggests getting samples from the writer that showcases their knowledge in your field. Closely review the first bits of work they submit to you.
A4: Ask for samples. Would you hire someone for a writing job without seeing their work first? #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/PPAaekgMzk
— Netvantage Marketing (@netvantage) August 15, 2017
Lexie agrees that asking for samples is a must. As she said, you wouldn’t want to hire someone without seeing their work first.
Q5: What are some do’s in creating authority content?
If you want to create authority content for your blog, there are a few things you absolutely must do! Want to find out what they are? Check out this advice from the chat:
A5 Know your audience. Create brand style guidelines for a consistent voice. Hire great writers/editors to help. #ContentWritingChat
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
Julia said you need to know your audience, first and foremost. She also said it’s important to develop brand style guidelines for a consistent voice. You can even hire great writers and editors to help you out.
A5: DO know your audience. Write helpful/relevant content for them in a format they love/respond to. Be where they are.#ContentWritingChat https://t.co/TzOznKdCoh
— ThinkSEM (@ThinkSEM) August 15, 2017
Sarah’s advice is to know your audience and create helpful, relevant content in a format they love.
A5 Do research thoroughly and do make sure you’re answering a question! Content without a point is, well, pointless. #contentwritingchat pic.twitter.com/itOdk6GUoE
— HeyOrca! (@HeyOrca) August 15, 2017
Make sure you’re doing your research and answering the questions your audience has. Your content should serve a purpose.
A5: Make sure that it solves a reader’s problem and written in a way that he understands. #ContentWritingChat https://t.co/6proHS9wPg
— Carlarjenkins (@carlarjenkins) August 15, 2017
You want to make sure your content solves a problem your reader is facing and present the information in a way that’s easy for them to understand.
A5. Understand your audience. Provide what they want. People love the solution. #ContentWritingChat https://t.co/OR1DWFmuzJ
— 《 Sabjan 》 (@sabjanseo) August 15, 2017
Sabjan said to understand your audience and provide what they want.
A5: Research, interviews/quotes, statistics, images and video. And NEVER use fluff to beef up your article #contentwritingchat
— Stephanie Weaver (@ahhh_its_steph) August 15, 2017
Include research, interviews, statistics, images, and video content. As Stephanie said, you should never beef up your article with fluff.
A5 When creating authority content, make sure your facts are right. Great writing won’t overcome looking like an idiot. #ContentWritingChat
— Jim Katzaman (@JKatzaman) August 15, 2017
As Jim said, you need to make sure your facts are right. There’s nothing worse than publishing an article with the wrong information.
A5: Do try to be original, in your style and point of view. Infuse your own unique personal + professional experiences. #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/bcotkTgL7n
— Beth Farris (@bethbabble) August 15, 2017
Beth’s advice is to try to be original in your style and point of view. This will help draw people in and help them connect with you. You want to share your own experiences as well, as it helps tells your story.
Q6: How can you create awesome visuals to accompany authoritative content?
We can’t forget that our written content needs great visuals as well. How do you create ones that stand out? Here’s some advice:
A6 We develop short infographics for authority blogs, & visuals sized for every SM platform branded w/ one theme color #ContentWritingChat
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
As Julia said, our team develops short infographics for authority blogs. We also have our designer create visuals sized for every main social media platform. Each graphic is branding in our color scheme.
A6: I love @canva because I can create graphics to go along with my post and style them specifically for my site. #ContentWritingChat
— Mind of a Diva (@MindofaDiva) August 15, 2017
Jennifer, like many others, is a big fan of Canva. They’ve made it easy to create professional-looking graphics.
A6: there’s a lot of free creation services like @canva or some brilliant photos from online sources like @deathtostock #ContentWritingChat
— Independent Retailer (@indretailer) August 15, 2017
Another Canva fan! For those who are searching for stock photos, Death to Stock is a great one to check out.
A6 Have a colour scheme! Use only HD images, and edit stock images, free or paid – just to stand out.#ContentWritingChat
— Maria Tereza Dickson (@terezadickson) August 15, 2017
Maria suggests following a color scheme for the images you create. This helps them stand out as being unique to your brand. You also want to use high-quality images. You can even edit stock images to help your graphics stand out online.
A6: hire a graphic designer. Our original content get 5x the traffic stock images get! #contentwritingchat
— Adam ⭕️ (@zerodarkadam) August 15, 2017
If you’re not great with design, there’s no shame in hiring a designer. Adam said it’s helped him seeing better results online.
Q7: What are some processes to fine tune, perfect, and publish a killer piece of authoritative content?
What do you need to do in order to create authority content for your blog? Here’s what you need to know:
A7a Have a workflow with stages developed, and support members in place. Take your time at each stage & perfect. #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/8fcix6htGq
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
A7b Stages: Researching trends + keywords. Brain dump. Outline. Write. Have an editor & designer help. Prep to publish. #ContentWritingChat
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
Julia suggests having a workflow with stages developed and support members in place. She also said you should take your time at each stage, instead of rushing it.
Some key stages in order to create authority content include: researching trends and keywords, brain dump, outline, write, edit, design graphics, and prepare to publish.
A7: Write, revise, edit…then step away for at least 24 hours before proofing or have another writer do it. #ContentWritingChat https://t.co/eytIiOuLxO
— ThinkSEM (@ThinkSEM) August 15, 2017
Sarah said you should write, revise, and edit. She said to step away from the content for at least 24 hours before proofreading or have someone else do it.
Q7: If possible, leave time btw writing & editing. You’ll see work with fresher perspective.#ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/uAxRDaYBNu
— Danielle Bullen Love (@daniellewriter) August 15, 2017
Danielle agrees with leaving time in between a final edit. It allows you to see your work with a fresher perspective.
A7 Don’t be complacent. First drafts are rarely ready to publish. Having someone to review/edit is also helpful. #ContentWritingChat
— Cristy (@lacristysalinas) August 15, 2017
Remember that first drafts are rarely read to publish, which is totally okay. That’s why you need to make time for editing. Cristy said having someone else take over the editing process is helpful. They’ll catch mistakes you missed.
A7: Define the point of the post. Outline your top talking points. Make sure the tone matches your target audience. #ContentWritingChat
— Flying Cork (@flyingcorkpgh) August 15, 2017
You want to define the point of your post, outline top talking points, and make sure the tone matches your target audience. Those are all essential steps for a great post.
A7: Create a checklist so you remember what to do before/during/after your blog post! @trello is great for this! #contentwritingchat pic.twitter.com/1TzIBH0Mda
— Lindsey Hazel ? (@hazel__haven) August 15, 2017
Lindsey suggests creating a checklist in a tool like Trello to keep you on track. You can outline what you need to do before, during, and after when creating content.
Q8: Which brands or marketers stand out as an authority online through the content they create? Tag them!
Which brands or marketers can you learn from? Check out these great content creators:
A8 ❤️ brands: @CMIContent @sejournal @CoSchedule marketers: @crestodina @sujanpatel @JoePulizzi @annhandley #ContentWritingChat
— Julia McCoy ? (@JuliaEMcCoy) August 15, 2017
You’ll want to add Julia’s favorites to your reading list!
A8: @dmscott @garyvee @unmarketing @PatrickCoffee @jeffbullas @jaybaer … and someday, I wanna make this list. #ContentWritingChat pic.twitter.com/X8RIUqdjYI
— Shawn Paul Wood (@ShawnPaulWood) August 15, 2017
Are you following any of these content creators?
A8 I’m a fan of @SproutSocial (obviously!). @YETICoolers & @Whataburger know their audience.? visuals & storytelling.#ContentWritingChat
— Cristy (@lacristysalinas) August 15, 2017
Knowing your audience, sharing great visuals, and storytelling are all essential. Cristy feels these brands do a great job at that.
A8: @CMIContent, of course. They have a solid voice, great creatives, and they repurpose old posts for maximum benefit. #ContentWritingChat
— Narmadhaa (@s_narmadhaa) August 15, 2017
Content Marketing Institute always does a great job!
A8: @sejournal, @semrush, @sproutsocial, @expwriters, @CMIContent just to name a few. #contentwritingchat
— Netvantage Marketing (@netvantage) August 15, 2017
Lexie shared some great resources as well! Search Engine Journal, SEMrush, Sprout Social, Content Marketing Institute, and even the Express Writers blog are great places for high-quality content.
Want to join the next chat? Follow @ExpWriters and @writingchat, then join us every Tuesday at 10 AM Central Time!