Aren’t Content Marketing And Digital Marketing The Same Thing

No, no they are not!

I am asked all the time about content marketing and digital marketing. People often think they are the same thing.

It can be confusing with all the terminology. They sound similar and can look similar. However, they are different.

I am a huge believer in content marketing and the power it has to have small businesses seen, heard and thriving. I mean, I am a content specialist after all!

So let’s talk about the differences between content and digital marketing, and why I LOVE content marketing for small biz.

Content Marketing

If you have ever looked into content marketing, digital marketing or content creation you would have come across Neil Patel.

He has amazing advice, easy-to-follow tips and is a marketing guru!

He sums up content marketing the best:

“Content marketing is a long-term strategy that uses content (in a variety of formats) to build a stronger relationship with your audience, capture their attention, improve engagement, and improve brand recall.” — Neil Patel

Really, content marketing is a way to show your Ideal Customers why they should choose your small biz. It is an amazing way to build authentic relationships with your target audience and provide value for them.

Examples of content marketing:

• Blog posts
• Medium (like here)
• Social media posts
• Emails
• Infographics
• Videos (TikTok, YouTube, Reels)

Digital Marketing

Content Marketing can come under the umbrella term of digital marketing. Where content marketing is more a specific way to use content, digital marketing is more a catch-all for any online marketing activities.

Digital marketing refers to any type of advertising or marketing efforts that use online channels, such as:

• Pay-per-click advertising
• SEO (Search Engine Optimisation)
• Social media marketing
• Video marketing
• Email marketing

The difference between Content Marketing and Digital Marketing

Digital marketing tends to be more pushy and direct, where you are trying to get someone to take action straight away.

Content marketing is more about growing and nurturing your audience so they naturally want to buy your product or service. It is about organic marketing efforts and growth. It is about developing trust and using content to show your knowledge, value and that you are an authority on that particular topic.

Perhaps marketing guru Robert Rose explained the difference best when he said:

“Marketing is telling the world you’re a rockstar. Content marketing is showing the world you are one.” — Robert Rose

Why choose to use Content Marketing for your small biz?

Small businesses rely on word of mouth and customer satisfaction for sustainable growth. Content marketing is essential to develop these relationships and to have your intended customers falling in love with your brand. It is a great way to nurture your customers (current or potential) and have them telling everyone they know how great your business is.

But one of the BEST things about content marketing?

It doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Any small biz owner, regardless of budget, can tap into this powerful method to be seen, heard and loved!

All you need is a little time and energy! So what are you waiting for?

Rachel Maree is a content specialist helping small biz owners master their content marketing strategies, content writing and more! You can read more helpful articles or hire her here.

To grab your free ultimate guide “Mastering Content Marketing. An essential guide for small biz owners” sign up here.

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