Content creation has taken the internet by storm, and justifiably so. It caters to different groups of audiences, with content tailored as per their interest, and is an effective marketing tool as well. 

Although a relatively new instrument, it has shown immense growth, given its inviting, engaging, and relatable nature. According to a study, almost 90% of organizations today advertise with content and that includes both B2B and B2C markets.

Content creators

A content creator is someone who produces content in the form of articles, photos, or videos on certain themes which resonate with their target audience and is aimed at catering to their interests and garnering their attention to their brand in return. This could be aimed at simply creating content on digital platforms to get more viewers or could be pointed towards promoting products and services.

If you have been meaning to embark on your journey in freelance content marketing, then here are five points you may keep in mind before you get started:

Planning and research: Conducting research and basing your plan accordingly will give your project a definite direction. Ideally, research should give you an idea about the demand of the viewers and the strategies of competitors. You can strike things out which seem redundant and add those which are likely to be welcomed by your audience. Also, your plan should be solid enough to pave a particular way for your work but be flexible enough to make any changes required at the eleventh hour.

Consistency: The significance of consistency cannot be overemphasized in the realm of freelance content creation. The posts are created for an audience and the audience would not appreciate sporadic work. It is recommended to keep a stock of content ready before embarking on uploading them. This will ensure consistency and which in turn, will help engage better with the audience. Consistency will also allow you to analyze the audience’s reaction and base your future content accordingly.

Distinctiveness: If possible, make a Unique Selling Proposition for your brand. This will provide distinction to your content in today's competitive market and will help you to stand out. Content creation can go a long way in creating a USP whether in the form of references, humor, or simply a particular style of content that has its own unique essence. While social media is consumed by jumping on the bandwagon, even a slight edge from your competitors can help garner the attention of your viewers.

Variation: The content might be directed towards one particular group; however, diversification with respect to the style and substance will help keep your content flavorful and interesting. It’s true that viewers might be comfortable with a particular kind of content but offering something different might be welcomed and there’s no harm in testing the waters. For this, utilizing different social media tools can be immensely helpful. For instance, during the advent of vlogging, many bloggers switched their content from blogs to vlogs or maintained both as freelance content creators. 

Networking: Be it any sphere of freelancing, networking is absolutely essential. Since freelancing as a content creator does not ensure regular work, it is up to you to put yourself out there and make yourself available. Apart from utilizing social media, attending networking events can also push you towards attracting more projects. Getting recommendations or simply approaching interested parties will get a lot easier when you are connected with the right network. Given the increasing reliance on the internet in today's day and age, the recognition of marketing as an essential to businesses and the interwovenness of both elements, it is safe to say that time is ripe to venture into it and exploit this opportunity. 

Freelancing as a content creator entails great flexibility and gives a sense of independence. Once you do get a project, consistency will be of the essence. 

Frequently asked questions

1. How do I become a freelance content creator?

The first step would be to educate yourself about the field you choose as your niche. Then, you can work towards creating your own brand and coming up with quality content for your target audience. 

2. What does a freelance content creator do?

A freelance content creator comes up with engaging content in the form of texts, images, and/or videos for businesses or for their independent brands, as a part of a marketing strategy. 

3. Do content creators make money?

Yes, content creators make money. This can range from a small stipend to a huge fortune. It depends on the outreach of the creator, the number of followers, the quality and quantity of content, and also the industry.