Top 10 Types of Content

Written By Malik G.

Introduction

If you’re looking to enhance your digital strategy, engaging content is the way to do it. However, content comes in many forms – probably too many to count. That’s why I’ve decided to do something a little different in today’s blog post. Instead of discussing the various forms of content out there, we’re going to talk about the best of the best, well, at least in my opinion. Whether you’re crafting a website, creating a landing page, or just trying to attract a Twitter follower or two, these are the types of content you should be using.

Let’s begin, shall we?

Number 10: Podcasts

Podcast top off the list, not just because they’re fun and awesome but also because they require some of the most work. Everyone would love to have their own online radio channel that promotes their brand while entertaining audiences and generating revenue via advertisers.

Unfortunately, many individuals don’t have the time nor resources to execute such a thing. In addition to resources, you’ll also need talent – radio-ready personalities with a flair for speaking to the masses. Again, a podcast is a fun, engaging, and insightful type of content and if it’s within your means, you should definitely consider it.

Number 9: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

To assume that your audience doesn’t have questions regarding your brand, is to assume that your brand uninteresting. FAQs are great for showing your audience that you have a genuine concern for their inquiries by providing them with the answers beforehand.

No matter what type of business you may run, there will always be a question to be asked. The key behind an FAQ is to ensure that you know which aspects of your business are complex and not easy to comprehend. FAQs are a sign of transparency and clarity – two things necessary for driving traffic, thus earning it the number nine spot.

Number 8: Memes  

Even though memes are relatively new, they are effective. For those that don’t know, Memes are those pictures with stills from TV shows, movies, and other images famous in pop culture with funny captions written on them. They are used to entertain and sometimes engage the reader into sharing it with others.

Memes were popularized through social media and that’s exactly where they should be utilized. The best thing about Memes is that they are inexpensive and you can be as creative as you want. Depending on your industry, memes may be seen as cheap but based on their influence in pop culture alone, I could not leave them off this list.

Number 7: GIFs

Similar to memes, Gifs are a great source of short-term entertainment and are highly-sharable. Despite Gifs being around for well over a decade, they are still every bit as effective as the other types of content on this list. With just a looped video and some engaging copy, a good Gif can spread your message to a large audience.

Thanks to their small size, Gifs also make for wonderful social media content. There’s not too much to say about this one. When it comes to Gifs, all it takes is a good idea and a cool message in order to be well on your way to attracting the attention you desire.

Number 6: Comic Shorts 

Now we’re diving into some fun territory. The best types of content tell a narrative, whether it’s two sentences or two paragraphs. Nothing exemplifies this better than comic shorts. Besides, who doesn’t enjoying reading a short comic that going to make them laugh, cry, or think, even if it’s for 15 seconds.

Comic shorts allow you to create characters and situations that simultaneously tell a story while promoting a brand. If you know any clever writers and talented artists, this is one form of content you might want to look into.

Number 5: Top 10 Lists

We all knew this one was coming given by the fact that this post is a top ten list in itself. Top 10s go back as far as the internet itself and that’s because they work. Top 10 lists enable to you inform, intrigue, and even spark a conversation among your audience.

It doesn’t matter if you’re stating your opinion or offering facts – once you start ranking things, people tend to pay attention. Just ask Buzzfeed; there are entire companies dedicated to solely creating top 10 lists, making them something of a big deal.

Number 4: eBooks 

If you’re talking about content, you’re bound to hear the term eBook pop up in the conversation. EBooks serve as long-form content for those that enjoy receiving new information. They can be anyway from ten to 100 pages long. This allows the reader to learn and absorb the knowledge at their own pace.

EBooks are typically used as an incentive to fill out a landing page – something people still do. If you’re in a highly detailed industry with many moving parts, then you should consider offering eBook content. It might appear to be a lot of work but the number of people filling out your landing pages will make it all worth it.

Number 3: Blog Posts

Don’t feel like writing an entire eBook? That’s fair, which is why blog posts exist. Blog posts allow you to go into detail without worrying about being too long or too short. The best thing about blogs are the endless possibilities. Most blog posts are accompanied by other forms of content like Gifs and Memes.

This is where your brand voice should be established. Highly customizable and personal, the right blog feels like it’s speaking directly to you. There’s a reason almost every website comes with a blog section. It’s a must have.

Number 2: Infographics

It’s safe to say that most individuals are more drawn to visuals rather than plain text. It’s usually the art that attracts you but it’s the copy that holds your attention. What better way to combine art and copy than an infographic? If you’ve got a lot of information and don’t feel like writing paragraph after paragraph then crafting an infographic sounds like the right decision.

When it comes to drawn-out data like percentages and ratios, it’s always good to hide that data behind a beautiful design. That way, you capture your audiences’ attention while driving home your message. Sites like Pinterest were built off of infographics and your website could be too.

Honorable Mentions:

1. Quotes

2. Holiday Posts

3. Polls

4. Digital Ads

Number 1: Videos

There’s a multi-billion dollar company that proves that video content is the way of the future: YouTube. Online videos are hands-down the easiest way to capture your audience’s attention. Thanks to the digital nature of creating videos nowadays, it doesn’t take much. Sites like YouTube and Vimeo allow your content to be viewed and shared by countless viewers.

Even social media websites like Facebook and Instagram have embraced video content, creating their own live streaming and broadcasting platforms. All you need is a sharp script, a camera, and a little bit of good luck and you could become the next online sensation. With video content only growing in popularity, don’t expect this famous form of content to disappear anytime soon.