Create a Social Media Content Calendar to Successfully Plan for the Future

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM, Sep 23, 2011 (MARKETWIRE via COMTEX) — Engaging with fans and followers through social media channels is becoming commonplace for many forward thinking companies, so brand marketers are advised by CrowdControlHQ, market leaders in providing social media management software, to maximise the opportunities around this through the creation of social media content calendars. Successful engagement comes with careful planning, and creating a framework for what you plan to communicate now and in the future is key to the success of any social media campaign.

Quality content can only be developed through planning, and as many brands look to develop their fan base through social media, gaining fans is important – but keeping them is an on-going challenge. The part that a social media content calendar plays in a well-thought out and executed campaign is important and essential. This is the case regardless of whether the campaign is being executed by employees of that brand, or a brand marketing company.

For the creation of content to populate a fruitful calendar, a mixture of sources can be used. From brand news, competitions and offers to appropriate responses and feedback derived from fan engagement.

James Leavesley, co-founder of CrowdControlHQ, said: “By creating a content calendar and planning for the future, all opportunities can be maximised, including seasonal ones. In addition, any time critical announcements can be scheduled in. By following this important rule, nothing will be left to chance. Brands looking for content inspiration should also ensure they’re utilising their fans – who will be the obvious sounding board for ideas when it comes to creating fresh and engaging content.”

Original Article Posted by Philip Keightley on marketwatch