Content and content marketing are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they’re actually two different things. While they’re related, understanding the difference between them is essential if you want to succeed in today’s digital landscape.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what content and content marketing are, and how they differ from each other.
What is Content?
Content refers to any type of information that is created and shared with an audience. This can include blog posts, articles, videos, podcasts, infographics, and more. The goal of content is to provide value to the audience, whether it’s through entertainment, education, or inspiration.
Content can be created by anyone, whether it’s an individual or a business. The focus is on the information itself, rather than on promoting a product or service — although it can be product-focused.
What is Content Marketing?
Content marketing, on the other hand, is a strategic approach to using content to achieve specific business goals. It involves creating and sharing valuable content that is designed to attract and engage a specific audience, with the ultimate goal of driving profitable customer action.
“Content marketing targets a specific audience with a specific purpose,” said Paul Dughi, CEO at StrongerContent.com. “It provides valuable and relevant information to educate, inform, and inspire…and convert.”
Content marketing is focused on building a relationship with the audience by providing them with valuable content that meets their needs and interests. It’s a long-term strategy that requires consistent effort, rather than a one-time campaign to maximize effectiveness.
How Do Content and Content Marketing Differ?
While content and content marketing are related, they differ in several key ways:
- Purpose: The purpose of content is to provide value to the audience, while the purpose of content marketing is to achieve specific business goals.
- Focus: Content is focused on the information itself, while content marketing is focused on the audience and their needs.
- Strategy: Content can be created by anyone, without a specific strategy in mind. Content marketing, on the other hand, is a strategic approach to using content to achieve specific business goals.
- Longevity: Content can be a one-time thing, while content marketing is a long-term strategy that requires consistent effort.
Related, But Different
Content and content marketing are two related but different things. Content is any type of information that is created and shared with an audience, while content marketing is a strategic approach to using content to achieve specific business goals. Understanding the difference between these two concepts is essential if you want to succeed in today’s digital landscape.
By focusing on creating valuable content that meets your audience’s needs, you can use content marketing to build a strong relationship with them and achieve your business goals.