Who, what, where and how? All about the content calendar

This is not surprising, because the content calendar is extremely useful. At least, we think so. And so do you, if you've read this blog.

What is a content calendar?

A content calendar is an overview of a certain period of time that lists what, when, where, how and for whom your company will publish content. Content for social media, for on your own website, in your emails ... it doesn't matter.

The content calendar shows you exactly what you will post when. So you don't forget that you still have to post a nice message for Father's Day, for example.

Why a content calendar?

So with a content calendar like this, you know exactly when you want to post something.

By writing it down first, you commit to that idea and are more likely to actually do it. This creates a constant stream of content, giving you a continuous presence with your brand or business.

You also know in advance what or what you want to publish about.

So you don't have to think up and write a quick Facebook message quarter to 10 at night because the next day is International Warm Sweater Day and you happen to have a webshop for warm sweaters made of alpaca wool.

In fact, you created and scheduled that post weeks in advance. Because then you had a spare half hour somewhere and took a quick look at the content calendar to see what was left to do.

In short, with a content calendar, you work more efficiently and save time (and stress).

Plus, you can better align your messages!

How can I also create a content calendar?

Simple. You can do that yourself. Just in Excel, for example.

But every self-respecting online marketing company has its own content calendar template. One they use themselves. So do we.

And because we're such good guys, we're happy to share it with you. You can download it here.

Content Calendar Content

All you have to do is fill it with ... yes, with what exactly? What do you put in such a content calendar? What kind of messages will you publish?

This is different for every business. As always, you need to know your target audience. Who are you writing for? Think about what your target audience would like to see or read and respond accordingly.

Pour your content into different forms, too. You can incorporate tips & tricks for washing sweaters from alpaca wool into a blog, or you can turn it into a video. Or a roadmap in the form of an infographic.

It's always helpful to know what does well with your target audience!

Channels & goals

Also not unimportant: where can your target audience be found? On Facebook? Instagram? LinkedIn? Or do they mainly check the newsletter you send out once a month?

Choose a channel that suits your audience, your content and what you want to achieve with that content.

Do you want more visitors to your website? Then Instagram, for example, is not so suitable, since you cannot place links in your posts. In that case, it might be better to send a stimulating email.

On the other hand, your (potential) clients are not waiting for messages in their mailbox showing off your projects or products. But then again, that's what Instagram is good for!

What is the best time to post on social media?

Let us help you out of a dream right away: there is no magic time when social media posts always reach many people. Unfortunately.

But fortunately, we do have some handy tips and insights that will help you get the most out of your posts. And you can find them hererr.

In conclusion.

Create your content calendar for a six-month period and structurally track how your posts are performing.

It gives you a good idea of the content your target audience loves. And you can then use that valuable knowledge for your next content calendar.

Are you not managing to create and maintain a content calendar? Or do you need help coming up with original content? We can feel free to help you with that. Contact us and find out what we can do for your business!

This article was written on May 23, 2018 and last updated on July 7, 2020.