A Few Quick Ways To Generate New Content Ideas

There’s nothing worse than writer’s block when you’re trying to get out your company’s monthly email to subscribers or keep your social media posts coming.

Sometimes the ideas flow quickly and naturally (don’t you just love those days?)… and other times, inspiration doesn’t come so easily.

So what do you do if you’ve got a deadline and can’t think of anything to write, post, or share with your audience? Here are a few tips to get the ideas flowing.

Photo by Jess Bailey on Unsplash

What are people asking you about?

Whether it’s via email, direct message, or in person, consider the questions people tend to ask you. Are there any common themes or frequently asked questions? If so, it means that:

• They see you as an expert in this area, and
• They have a need (for knowledge, service, etc) in this area

Use these questions as a basis for the content you create. You’ll be helping people while showing your expertise. It’s a win-win.

What’s relevant or trending now?

Think about what people are talking about right now, and that will lead you to topics you know are of interest.

Consider local events, industry news, platform trends (have you tried short video on TikTok or Reels?), and the season or time of year. What’s your take on them? Do you have tips for people? A different opinion? All of these can get people talking when you share them.

Check Your Analytics

What kind of content has done well in the past?

One way to find out is to check your analytics: your site stats in Google Analytics or your engagement stats in Instagram Insights.

In Google Analytics, look at which pages get the most views and engagement. On Instagram, look at the likes, comments, shares and saves on your posts and stories.

Once you see what your audience enjoys, you can create more content on those or similar topics.

Ask Your Audience

If all else fails, why not ask your customers or followers directly what they’d like to see from you?

You could ask that exact question and hope for a few replies, but you’re likely to get more of a response if you make it easier for them. Give them a few options to choose from, e.g.:

• A list of topics
• A list of content types (video, image, long form writing)

Want to make it even easier? Have them vote in a poll: add a poll to your Instagram stories, or create one in Google Forms and link to it in your email. That way, all they have to do is click and submit their choice.

PS: Still stumped? Our content creation team at Rock Solid Marketing can plan and create content for you. Contact us to talk it through.