SELF-MADE VS. PROFESSIONAL CONTENT
These days Hollywood isn’t the only way to stardom as evident with the influx of self-made influencers all over social media platforms. In today’s digital age, where smartphones boast powerful cameras and multiple accessible editing tools, many companies and individuals have leaned towards self-produced content. The line between self-produced and professionally produced content has significantly blurred over the years, raising questions and doubts as to whether or not companies should still require the need for content companies. Both have their advantages and disadvantages so take a quick read to find out which route you should be taking and why professional content companies such as Iceberg Media (self-plug) may be better for certain situations.
WHY IS CONTENT SO IMPORTANT?
Why is it so important for companies to include content such as photography and videography in their websites and/or profiles? Whilst there haven’t been specific studies done to produce reasons why content is so important, it has been proven that the inclusion of multimedia content produces satisfactory results in the form of increased engagement, shareability and more.
For example, a study carried out by Skyword found that articles with relevant images received 94% more views than articles without images. Platforms such as Tiktok and Instagram also support this notion as they primarily focus on multimedia media as opposed to text-only posts.
With this being a blog, it is only fair that statistics related to blog articles are also included. Blog posts with multimedia elements tend to rank higher in search engine results pages (SERPs) and Google often displays videos and images in its search results thus increasing visibility.
It’s safe to say that the inclusion of multimedia has resulted in satisfactory outcomes whether it be self-produced or professionally made.
QUALITY
Professional content companies have experienced and skilled writers, editors, and designers who can create high-quality content that is engaging, informative, and well-crafted. Just like the team at Iceberg, every video and photograph delivers a specific message through the use of different tones and styles appropriate to each piece of content. However, self-produced content may be equally as good thus why it’s important to take time to research different companies and individuals and gather intel through their previous works. A professional content company may have more variety and experience due to their bigger team but it also does not necessarily equate to quality work all the time.
TIME-SAVING
Just like how you’d want an experienced barista to make coffee, content creation can be time-consuming if inexperienced. With the necessary tools and expertise, professional content companies can efficiently and confidently get any task done whilst businesses run about their day focusing on other matters. Best of both worlds!
On the other hand, individuals producing self-content tend to produce content on the fly, meaning that these individuals are great with spontaneous moments and ideas. This becomes a great skill for engaging with your audience in real-time and for building a personalised brand enriched with storytelling.
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CONSISTENCY
Typically, self-produced content isn’t consistent and more likely than not, is a one-time thing. A strong brand identity is important for businesses to stay relevant and professional content companies can help you maintain a consistent voice and tone across all your content, ensuring that your brand message is clear and memorable. With more experience comes the skill needed to handle unexpected situations and challenges, thus it’s important to ensure the company or individual chosen for the job is equipped with the skills and knowledge to work through these obstacles.
SEO OPTIMIsATION
Self-produced content may not include SEO optimisation which will increase visibility and traffic to a website, which is especially essential for start-ups or small businesses. SEO optimisation makes it easier for a business to be found by potential customers and equipped with the required knowledge and understanding, professional content companies always have the best in mind for their customers.
INNOVATION
Content companies are typically always on the lookout for the newest trends and tools for content creation. For example, certain shots and ideas may require special and specific tools such as underwater shots, drone shots or even a green screen. Professionals would more likely have accessibility to these types of equipment so take advantage of content companies and utilise their ever-growing knowledge of content strategies and recommendations!
In conclusion, who’s to say that self-produced content isn’t regarded just as highly by the public? Take a look at the social media influencers who are pouring out content daily whilst receiving millions of views and likes. For example, self-produced content will undoubtedly be priced lower than content companies as self-produced content does not always require expensive equipment or professional training. Additionally, clients are typically more tolerant when it comes to speed and creative control when it comes to self-produced content. With such individuals, learning and growth are a big part of their journey. The more experience they gain, the more knowledge and skills they’ll attain. At the end of the day, to each their own! Each client has their own goals and inspirations and it’s up to them to find out which company or individual will best align with their goals.
