Ditch the Overwhelm: 4 Simple Shifts To Simplify Content Workflow

Content workflow needs can feel never-ending, and every marketer knows it’s because they are. 

When consistency is proven again and again to be a key element of marketing success, keeping up with business content needs can leave even the most organized marketer feeling swamped. When an audience sees polished content, a marketer knows that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Every published piece or post is built on content goals, audience analysis, strategy alignment, creation stages, software management, deadlines, and performance metrics — it’s no wonder marketers might feel overwhelmed by workflow needs.

That pressure only intensifies when content processes are messy and execution is scattered.

Instead of treading water or putting out fires, here are four simple shifts to take content workflow from scattered to streamlined. 

Tip #1: Map Your Current Workflow

Some steps of the content creation process happen naturally, while others take intentional planning. What comes naturally and what requires effort will look different for each team member, so mapping out workflow stages helps clearly identify all the steps involved in content planning. A structured map prevents key steps from being overlooked or causing a bottleneck in your workflow.

Pro Tip: Make it visual. You might think you know the ins and outs of your content workflow, but visually mapping your systems will help you strategically see the steps. Try using a flowchart or diagram to clarify any confusion among team members and keep everyone on the same page.

Tip #2: Identify Content Bottlenecks

Use your workflow map to identify any bottlenecks in the content creation process. Where are the repeated holdups or unnecessary delays? Find the part of creation where content needs start to pile up, or efficiency slows down. Once you identify bottlenecks, you’ll need to implement systems to prevent them. For example, do you craft great videos but avoid posting when the caption holds you up? Are your emails visually captivating, but you’re avoiding the content copy? Acknowledging problem areas is the first step to finding systems that avoid habitual pitfalls.

Pro Tip: Find the why behind the bottleneck. Do you love visual creation but need help with writing? Do you thrive in brainstorming sessions but struggle to translate that into a goal-driven content calendar? Find the right tools or partners to help streamline any areas of struggle.

Tip #3: Streamline Creation With Tools

After you’ve established your goals and how content can support them, and addressed any bottlenecks or process problems,  it’s time to streamline. Standardizing content creation (particularly the parts that used to be problem areas) will be the key to consistency. Streamlining involves eliminating unnecessary work and enhancing productivity with the right support tools. 

Pro Tip: Challenge yourself to test out a new streamlining habit or digital tool this week. Try batch working similar steps of different content, or time-blocking your schedule. Or check out these ten workflow tools and see which outside resource can reduce bottlenecks or boost productivity.

Tip #4: Outsource Strategically

Keeping everything in-house can cost you. Sometimes, wearing all the hats of your business workflow can hinder growth — focus on what you do best and outsource other parts strategically. Struggling through workflow steps that you aren’t good at or don’t enjoy will only inhibit your overall content creation process.

Pro Tip: Review your workflow map, identify the bottlenecks that seem like the biggest struggle, and then crowdsource outsourcing recommendations on a LinkedIn post. You’ll not only receive quality leads to pursue for content support, but you’ll also realize just how much outsourcing makes business happen across your connections. 

Simplifying Your Workflow Today

When you intentionally simplify your workflow, you free up time and brain space to create content that connects. These simple shifts will not only help logistically, but they can also immeasurably fuel more creative energy for you and your team. 

Comma Copywriters can help your workflow. With quality content creation built on decades of writing experience, we can support your strategic systems. Schedule a free 20-minute consultation today to learn more about outsourced content support and how it can help you reach your business growth goals.