Content development Archives - Silvica: Blog for Sustainable Development http://silvica.site/category/content-development/ Greening our world through content Wed, 13 May 2020 10:17:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://i0.wp.com/silvica.site/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/cropped-silvica_image.jpg?fit=32%2C32&ssl=1 Content development Archives - Silvica: Blog for Sustainable Development http://silvica.site/category/content-development/ 32 32 162136420 Nine reasons why content is vital in modern digital marketing https://silvica.site/nine-reasons-why-content-is-vital-in-modern-digital-marketing/ Tue, 23 Jul 2019 21:53:05 +0000 http://silvica.site/?p=445 By David OkulJuly 23, 2019 The modern costumers are demanding, and content is one of the things that they crave for ‘Why should I invest in developing content for my business?’ Many of my clients ask me the question on our first meeting. My answer is always, “It is a must if you want your […]

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By David Okul
July 23, 2019

The modern costumers are demanding, and content is one of the things that they crave for

‘Why should I invest in developing content for my business?’ Many of my clients ask me the question on our first meeting. My answer is always, “It is a must if you want your business to prosper”. Are you still not convinced? Silvica has prepared nine reasons that should make you start working on your content strategy today.

1. Good content will improve a business reputation

Great content presents a positive vibe about your brand. In fact, one of the greatest benefits of great content is that it enhances the reputation of your company. Good quality content is a sure bet for positive brand reputation. When readers read your content, they start developing an opinion about your brand. So, do not work on putting up any content on your platforms, work on quality! And, good quality content is good for your customers too.

2. Content will inform your audience

Most content on website give the reader information about the business and the industry. Details such as opening hours, location, and products are common in most of the content offered. Additionally, content creators should also work at educating their audience. For instance, as Silvica also offers environmental consultancy services in East Africa, we may write an article that outlines projects that need environmental impact assessments in the region. If one of the readers decides to contact us for an EIA for a project they intend to undertake in Kenya, they will already have some knowledge of the regulations. In the end, it will save both of us time, and subsequently money.

Thus, having content is a win-win for both the client and the business. An informed client is one step from converting to a paying customer. What’s more? The content does not have a shelf-life either. Once the content is on your website or blog, it can continue informing your clients for years. Piece of free advice; investing in informative content is a shrewd investment.

3. Great content can influence your conversion rates

Yes, research has proven that content marketing increases conversation statistics. One study reports that 74% of companies surveyed claimed that content marketing increased their leads. Readers connect with your business as more information is shared. If you need conversions in your content (and you should) do not forget to include a clear call to action (CTA) towards the end of your content.

4. Optimized content can improve SEO

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps to improve the visibility of a business online. Content creation is among the most effective SEO building tools. Business sites that post regular blog content have over 400% more page indexed by search engines as compared to those that do not publish at all. More posts don’t automatically mean that you will get higher traffic. However, more posts will give you a chance to rank for more keywords. Another reason for having more content on your website is that it would allow your visitors to stick around. You can choose to consult Silvica content creators for guidelines.

5. Content will earn your site links from other sites

Content not only bring people to your site, but it also assists your site in earning links from other websites. The more links your site has, the better it ranks in search engines such as Google. Typically, powerful websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and New York times will generate more links. But, they only rank for major keywords like ‘news’ or “network”. You can focus on longer keywords that are less competitive. You do not have to be the biggest website to succeed in the online parlance; you just need a few links to surpass your competitors. Moreover, content can give you other linkages apart from the Google search engines

6. Content is sharable of Social media

Any modern business should have at least one social media account. Yes, more and more people are spending time on social media, and your business should be there too! Better still, opening accounts in most of the social media platforms is free. Facebook and Twitter are among the biggest social media accounts. Other social media options include Linkedin, Pinterest, Tumblr, Instagram, and Snapchat. You just need to find the social media platform(s) that work for you, and you can push your content through them.

Social media marketing is emerging as an important component of any organization marketing strategy (image source: Image by Photo Mix from Pixabay)

7. Content is an affordable way to increase lead generation

Money is often tight especially for start-ups and small businesses. It is no surprise that the marketing budget is often tight. However, content marketing offers an effective yet inexpensive way of marketing. According to DemandMetric, content marketing costs about 62% less than the traditional marketing tactics. Yet, they generate as many as 3 times the leads. The great thing about content writing is that you can even do them by yourself! Think about it, no one understands your business and customer better than yourself! As such, you can create content that connects with your clients. The only downside is that content development requires an investment of time. Besides, consultants are available to support you in your digital marketing needs.

8. Content allows you to display your knowledge of the industry

The consumers want the best value for money. They would prefer to spend money on the provider who has demonstrated that they understand the ins and out of their industry. And content provides you with a great opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of the industry. Furthermore, well-written content helps the readers make informed decisions about the purchases. Customers will most likely remember the brands that provided them with the relevant information when the times for purchases come. As Silvica, we always tell our clients to focus on writing good quality content instead of quantity. Quality articles are well-researched, original, and simple.

Good content on your website shows your clients that you are aware of the developments in your industry (Image credits: Image by Pexels from Pixabay)

9. Content is the cornerstone for any digital marketing strategy

Any digital marketing campaign would need some content. Whether you want your page to rank, or your blogs to have engagement, or have a viral video campaign, content is key. It is the heart and soul of any digital marketing strategy. If you have never thought about creating online content for your business, you better start now. You will certainly reap the rewards in the future.

Honestly, I can write all day about the importance of content in digital marketing platforms. As a business, you need to invest some time and money to develop good-quality and appropriate content, if you are not doing so already. At the end of the day, it is virtually impossible to implement a digital marketing strategy without content.

Links to References and Resources

https://www.lyfemarketing.com/blog/why-is-content-marketing-important/https://www.webfx.com/internet-marketing/how-important-is-content-to-a-digital-marketing-strategy.htmlhttp://customerthink.com/why-content-marketing-is-vital-for-your-brand-in-2019/https://startupscaffold.com/why-content-marketing-is-important-2019/

David Okul is a freelance writer, and a PhD student at a Kenyan university

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]]> 445 The distinction between a Copywriter and a Content Writer https://silvica.site/are-plastics-back-in-kenya-despite-the-ban-2/ Mon, 22 Jul 2019 16:36:07 +0000 http://silvica.site/?p=439 By David Okul July 22, 2019 The world of marketing is changing. Almost all businesses recognize the value of blogs in their marketing activities. However, the roles of the copywriter and content writer are often understood. Although there are some overlaps between the terms, a distinction also exists. Some businesses are even engaging content strategists […]

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By David Okul
July 22, 2019

The world of marketing is changing. Almost all businesses recognize the value of blogs in their marketing activities. However, the roles of the copywriter and content writer are often understood. Although there are some overlaps between the terms, a distinction also exists. Some businesses are even engaging content strategists to better align their marketing materials. Silvica has prepared this short article to enhance your knowledge of copywriters, content writers, and content strategies

Consult us for professional copywriting and content writing especially on tourism and environmental content in Kenya
Copywriting and content writing are vital for any modern business

Both copywriting and content writing are useful in targeting prospective buyers at different stages of marketing

A Copywriter has the objective of making the consumer of the information to take action

Copywriting is the business of persuasion. Unlike the other forms of content writing, copywriters usually use a conversational and interactive tone. Since their goal is to persuade, they are more forceful in delivering their message. In many cases, copies are written to generate sales.  It is possible to focus on product copy, SEO copy or direct advertising.  Many successful copywriters specialize in specific industries.   

A key feature for a good copywriter is psychological and empathy skills. Copywriters need to understand the psychology for their target audience so that they can develop the right content for them. An understanding of SEO is useful in copywriting.

As the name suggests, content writers are more concerned with content

Yes, content writers write primarily to inform, educate, entertain or instruct readers. Content writing is relatively new for businesses as it has emerged with the advent of online technology. In contrast, copywriting has been present since the times’ businesses began to advertise. The content is generally designed to enhance the relationship between the content and the reader. Over time, content writers would make the audience trust the brand such that they would be interested in their products and services.

Also, good content writers need to understand keywords to enhance search engine visibility. Additionally, content writers need frequent fresh content ideas that will keep their audience engaged.

The internet provides an immense opportunity for businesses to market their products
Modern businesses are concerned with the most effective ways of generating sales from their online presence

Content strategists

They refer to people who define the brands’ overall direction in content marketing. They design the vision of the content and where it will be published. They also use analytical tools to make most of their decisions. Most content writers and copywriters are also content strategists. In fact, B2B marketers have found blogging to be more cost-effective than other traditional lead generation methods.

All in all, Silvica concludes that the work of the copywriters is to encourage people to take action. In theory, content writers have the primary purpose of engaging the reader. In reality, most content writers would end up doing copywriting because the content would often desire some action. Whether it is to elicit interest in the brand, generate social media likes, or subscribe to a page, the writer of the content wants the readers to take action. Businesses should have content strategists, copywriters and content writers if they are to build a formidable online marketing strategy.

References and Resources

Constant-Content. https://www.constant-content.com/content-writing-service/2018/06/the-differences-between-a-copywriter-content-writer-and-content-strategist/

SmartBug. https://www.smartbugmedia.com/blog/copywriting-vs.-content-writing-what-is-the-difference-and-what-should-you-be-doing-for-your-blog

Search Engine Journal. https://www.searchenginejournal.com/unconventional-guide-content-writing-vs-copywriting/114408/#close

David Okul is an environmental management professional with over 10 years experience on donor projects, conservation, forestry, ecotourism, and community-based natural resources management. When not working on  active environmental management projects, I spend my time writing for Silvica on a variety of topics.

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]]> 439 11 Grant Writing Myths https://silvica.site/11-grant-writing-myths/ Sun, 14 Jul 2019 20:26:30 +0000 http://silvica.site/?p=397 By David Okul July 14, 2019 Avoid the myths in grant writing to increase your success rates Every organization understands that writing grants is such a tall order. I have encountered organizations that have written grants in their dozens to no success, while some have quite impeccable success rates. Perhaps, debunking some of the myths […]

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By David Okul
July 14, 2019

Avoid the myths in grant writing to increase your success rates

Every organization understands that writing grants is such a tall order. I have encountered organizations that have written grants in their dozens to no success, while some have quite impeccable success rates. Perhaps, debunking some of the myths in grant writing could increase your chances of attaining success.

Silvica has compiled 11 myths on grant writing that we think are pertinent. Read and review:

1. Grants are instant solutions to an organization’s monetary problems

I have been consulted by organizations that view grant money as an instant solution to their financial woes. Grant money is not a solution for money problems for two major reasons. First, the reality is that the rejection of grants is common. Often, first-time grants are often unfunded. Grant writing is akin to job searching. We rarely get jobs on our first applications. Instead, we keep sending resumes, upgrading skills, network and hanging in there until we get something. It is the same with grant writing; organizations need not take rejection hard. Instead, they should work at ensuring that they learn from each application and improve in the next application.

2. Grant Money is free money

On the contrary, it is not. Grant money often has a strict budget and reporting mechanisms. Additionally, as already mentioned, it requires commitment and dedication to complete a grant application. Therefore grant money should not be treated as free money. Apply for a grant if you think your organization can solve a specific problem outlined by the sponsor.

3. We don’t know anyone at the foundations/ sponsors so there is no need to write grants

Honestly, the statement is half true. Knowing people at the foundations could help but it is not required. What is more important is for organizations to identify the relevant sponsors and follow their application guidelines to the letter. You can also request the grant agency for a copy of the rating form it uses.

Apply for a grant in tourism, environment conservation, or community development with us
Persuasive grant writing services for small organizations lacking time and/or capacity

4. Big organizations get all the money

As related to the previous point, big organizations often have all the experience in grant writing. Some also have a specific department or budgets for consultancies in grant writing. As such, it is common to see big and established organizations getting all the cash. They have mastered the art of grant writing and managing donor monies. But if your organization is inexperienced in grant writing, worry not. Funders always look out for new and innovative ideas to fund. It is up to you to develop creative and persuasive proposals.

5. Writing grants is too complicated

Honesty, it is not. But writing grants is definitely a tedious process. You need to read and understand all the guidelines. Most foundations have reported that a good number of grants received fail to follow basic instructions. As such, if you follow all the instructions, your application is likely to get a listening ear. Moreover, take time to read sample proposals that are often available on the foundations’ or the beneficiaries’ websites. It is a good practice to use statistics in your application. More importantly, it is good to back your application with a story about the people or animals the grant intends to help.

6. You need experienced and accomplished grant writers to receive large grants

Certainly, experienced and professional grant writers help. But, hiring a professional does not guarantee success. In fact, a consultant that promises a successful application is certainly a fraud. The success of funding is dependent on the choice of grant and the passion for the project. As organizations, always seek to apply for grants that share in your ethos and are compatible with your day to day activities.

7. We do not have grant writers and hiring one may be too expensive

Without a doubt, grant writing requires professional as grants are super competitive. Even with limited resources, organizations can choose to train an individual to write grants. But, organizations should ensure that the person chosen has adequate time to learn and apply for grants. Often, organizations would assign an individual the task of grant-writing without balancing their other roles in the organization. Alternatively, it is a myth that freelance grant writers are expensive. For instance, Silvica offers grant writing services in environmental/social projects in East Africa and beyond at flexible rates.

8. One size proposals will fit all

Many organizations make the mistake of sending one grant to various sponsors. A very wrong strategy! Every sponsor is different and the application should reflect the ethos of the funder. It is okay to recycle certain phrases and passages, but ensure that each application is unique and tailored to the specifics of the sponsor. We are reiterating this, ‘ensure that your grants follow the sponsors’ guidelines to the letter’ 

Last minute rush and grant writing is a bad idea
Don't kid yourself. Grants are often competitive and last-minute submissions are likely to fail

9. You can write applications a Night before the deadline

Again, this is a common mistake most organizations make. They often assign a team member (or members) to make an application without carefully relieving the team members of their other duties. Consequently, the team develops a grant proposal hurriedly with a plethora of mistakes. If the organization lacks systems for grant writing, it is a good idea to invest in grant writing consultants. Additionally, grants should be reviewed by other members in the organization before submission. This review not only reduce errors, but ensures the grant is within the organization’s objective 

10. Small grants are easier to get than large grants

Although it is a good idea to start applying to smaller grants, it does not mean that getting larger grants is harder. What is important in grant writing is for organizations to select sponsors who share their interests. Additionally, writers should be creative and convincing enough to the funder.

11. Writing grants is a waste of time as there is no money available

Money is tighter these days as more organizations emerge but there are still billions up for grabs for organizations. Additionally, sponsors are eager to give away money too. Thus, the onus is for organizations to write water-tight proposals that are persuasive enough to the sponsors.

Without a doubt, grants have been instrumental for a wide array of social, health and environmental projects. Most organization desire grants to assist them in implanting their programs. However, only a handful of organizations are successful in obtaining assistance from sponsors. The understanding of the grant myths could assist organizations to be well prepared in writing grants. Chances of success in grant writing dramatically increase when the application follows the sponsors’ instructions and presents an innovative proposal.

Links to References and Resources

Further Reading

Great Writings

The Chronicles

The Balance

More Articles on Silvica

Ten pertinent components of any grant proposal

Establishing winning project teams

The Project Management definition, history, life cycle, and stakeholders roles

David Okul is an environmental management professional with over 10 years experience on donor projects, conservation, forestry, ecotourism, and community-based natural resources management. When not working on active environmental management projects, I spend my time writing for Silvica on a variety of topics. 

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