How to create a content plan that works for you (even if you hate planning)
If you've just stumbled upon this post while sipping your third cup of tea for the day (Tetley, I hope?), then you're in the right place, especially if the thought of planning your social media content makes you want to hide under the duvet.
Why bother with a content plan?
You know that feeling when you're looking into your wardrobe thinking you have nothing to wear, but it's actually overflowing? That's your social media without a plan – lots of stuff, no outfits. A content plan helps you pick out the perfect 'outfit' for your social media each day, so you can show up looking sharp and feeling confident. Imagine never having to stress about what to post while sipping your morning coffee!
Step 1: Define what you actually want to achieve
Start with your why (and "because I should" doesn't count!). Are you looking to connect with more clients, create a community, or maybe communicate your unique approach to business? Pin down your goals like you're pinning a tail on a donkey – but hopefully, you'll hit the mark more often than not. It's about aligning your social media actions with your business objectives, ensuring every post has a purpose, whether it's driving engagement, increasing sales, or simply boosting your brand's visibility.
Step 2: Pick your content pillars
These are the cornerstones of your content wardrobe. If you're a nutritionist, your pillars might be healthy recipes, workout tips, and myth-busting nutrition facts. For each pillar, think about what your audience loves to hear about from you – and no, it doesn't always have to be serious. Throw in a fun fact or a personal story now and then; it's like adding a pop of colour to a monochrome outfit! These pillars not only streamline your content creation process but ensure diversity and consistency across your postings.
Step 3: Fit your plan into your real life
Let’s be totally honest here. Sometimes we all get a bit carried away with planning to be super-duper organised, up with the larks and posting on socials every day. But is that really sustainable? Don't plan to post every day if you can't. Maybe you’re more of a 'three-posts-a-week' kind of gal. Whatever your schedule, make it work for you. Remember, social media is supposed to be your wingman, not your taskmaster. Adjust your content frequency to match your real-life availability and energy levels, ensuring you can maintain quality and consistency without burnout.
Step 4: Keep it simple
You don’t need fancy tools or apps that promise the moon. A simple spreadsheet or even a good old notepad works wonders. Plan out your week on Sunday night, or go wild and plan the whole month if you're feeling adventurous! This approach should be flexible enough to adjust as you go, letting you swap things around as your life and business evolve throughout the month.
Step 5: Always have a plan B
Life happens. Kids get sick, meetings run late, and sometimes, you're just not feeling it. Have a few evergreen posts ready to go for those days when even coffee can't help. These backups could be simple quotes, customer testimonials, or fun facts — anything that keeps your audience engaged without requiring fresh inspiration or energy from you.
Creating a content plan isn't about restricting your creativity; it's about making sure that when you're ready to speak to your audience, you're saying something worthwhile. It’s like having a map in your back pocket, even if you decide to take a few scenic detours along the way. So, grab that notebook (or open up that new app you just can't resist - I see you!), and start planning. Your future self will thank you for it.
What’s your next step? Let me know in the comments or DM me if you want to chat about boosting your social media game. Remember, it's all about making connections and having a bit of fun along the way!
If you need more ideas like these, sign up for my newsletter for weekly tips straight to your inbox!
Struggling with content ideas for your business?
Download my FREE guide to creating ten posts in ten minutes and really kickstart your business social media content today!