Keep It Simple - The Two Basic Forms of Content

Many people get overwhelmed at the prospect of "creating content" because they don't really understand what that means. They know there are lots of fancy ways to present things online, and don't know anything about how to create them. But, when you break it down, content isn't a complicated thing.

Two Forms of Content

Content really takes just two forms: written or spoken. That's it. If you can write or you can speak, (and you can!) then you can create content.

It's true that each form of content can be presented in many different ways. Written content can appear on a website, on your blog or other online platforms, as a downloadable e-book or whitepaper, or in an e-mail communication. But, the process of creating content for any of these things is the same - sit down at your computer and write!

The same is true for spoken content. It can be delivered as a live speech or presentation, a teleconference, a webinar, a video, etc... For some of these formats, additional technological tools and skills are required. But the content creation itself is simple - plan what you want to say, open your mouth, and say it.

The Third Wheel

There is a third form of content that I have to mention. I call it visual content. This form of content uses very few words, but instead presents information in a visual format. A couple of examples include infographics and slideshow presentations.

The way I look at it, this form of content is in a different category for two reasons. First, it is usually created by an anonymous third party (a designer) rather than a person whose expertise is being communicated. And second, while it can provide valuable information, it is less effective at building relationships because of the non-personal nature of the presentation.

Visual content isn't usually a good starting place for businesses who are new at creating content because the creation process isn't as simple as the first two forms, which is critical.

Keep It Simple

Okay, I may be oversimplifying things a bit. But I'm doing it for a reason. I want to show you that content creation is very do-able. I don't like to see businesses shy away from content creation because they overcomplicate it in their minds.

Perhaps this sounds like you? Do you dismiss the idea of creating content because it is overwhelming to you? Then my recommendation is to start simple.

The easiest way to get started with content creation is by writing, so that is what I start with when working with clients. Establishing goals and getting into a writing habit is important for getting the consistency you need. Brainstorm some topics and write some bite-sized articles.

If you try to start with too large of a piece or an overly technical format, it's true that you may end up being in over your head. You could become overwhelmed and then never get it off the ground. But simple forms of content take a lot less time to create and can be equally effective.

It is time to stop being overwhelmed, and just get started. It's not as complicated as you think.