Understanding Content Curation

Content curation involves the process of carefully selecting, gathering, packaging, and sharing content from various sources on the internet.

Curated content typically comprises a collection of high-quality resources centered around a specific topic, such as 'best of' lists or content designed to aid in acquiring a particular skill.

The Value of Content Curation

Why should you consider incorporating content curation into your content marketing strategy?

1. Saves Time: Content curation acts as a filter, saving valuable time by eliminating less impactful pieces of content and focusing solely on the most outstanding and relevant exhibits or artwork, similar to how museums use curators.

2. Highlights Excellence: Content curation spotlights exceptional content, helping your audience discover 'hidden gems' they might otherwise miss. By curating and presenting exceptional content, you provide added value.

3. Speed and Efficiency: While content curation demands time and effort, it is generally quicker compared to creating original content from scratch. Some companies even automate the process on a large scale, as seen in tools like Google Discover.

4. Thought Leadership: Curating content showcases your expertise and authority in a given field. Your ability to sift through the noise and identify the best content on a specific topic positions you as an expert.

Best Practices in Content Curation

Content curation is akin to sports highlights; you may not be the athlete or the cameraman, but you provide a valuable service by condensing content down to its most valuable parts. To start curating content, you need to identify what you want to feature. Here are some approaches:

1. Use BuzzSumo Content Explorer: This content marketing tool is tailored for content curators. Simply type in your chosen topic, explore the results, and save posts that merit curation.

2. Subscribe to Industry Email Newsletters: Many newsletters curate the best content for you, making it easier to discover valuable resources.

3. Maintain a Swipe File: Create an ongoing list of content that garners attention on social media, even if you're unsure of how to use it. Tools like Scoop.it, Pocket, or Evernote can help you organize this list.

4. Utilize Search Engines: Search engines like Google often curate the best content through their algorithms. Explore results beyond the first page to find 'hidden gems' that might not have reached the top.

5. Scan Popular Blogs: Visit blogs known for publishing excellent content and scan their feeds for valuable content that fits your curation goals.

Sharing on Social Media

One of the quickest ways to curate content is to share it on social media platforms. By sharing content from various sources, you achieve several benefits:

1. Shareable Content: This approach provides content for your social network without the need to create everything from scratch.

2. Building Relationships: Sharing other people's content can help foster connections within your industry.

3. Potential Promotion: Other individuals may include your curated social media posts in their articles and roundups, bringing more traffic to your content.

For added value, always include your own insights, commentary, or opinions when sharing others' content on social media. This positions you as an expert and enhances your content.

Curating Resources in Blog Posts

While sharing content on social media is a rapid curation method, blog posts often yield more enduring value. Blog posts allow you to curate content in a comprehensive format. For instance, you can curate content on a specific topic and provide a detailed overview with original commentary. This approach ensures that your curated content continues to attract traffic over time.

Adding Original Content

To elevate your content curation efforts, consider adding original commentary or advice to your curated content. This not only enhances the perceived value but also distinguishes your content. Original content can include unique descriptions for each curated resource, custom designs, or additional insights.

Outreach

Content curation naturally incorporates email outreach. When you curate content that features individuals or companies, they are more likely to be interested in your content. Outreach to these featured parties in a non-pushy manner can result in increased sharing and promotion of your curated content.

Content curation offers a valuable approach to content marketing, helping you provide high-quality resources to your audience while establishing your expertise in your field.