The 70 20 10 rule of content is a strategic framework for content creation and distribution. It suggests that 70% of content should focus on core topics, 20% should be related but exploratory, and 10% should be experimental or innovative. This approach helps maintain a balanced content strategy that engages audiences while allowing room for creativity and innovation.
What Is the 70 20 10 Rule of Content?
The 70 20 10 rule is a guideline used by content creators and marketers to allocate resources and effort effectively. The primary goal is to ensure that content remains relevant and engaging while fostering innovation. This strategy can be applied to various content forms, including blog posts, social media updates, videos, and more.
How Does the 70% Core Content Work?
The 70% core content focuses on your main topics or themes. This is the bread and butter of your content strategy, designed to engage your existing audience and reinforce your brand’s authority. Core content should be:
- Consistent: Regularly published to maintain audience interest.
- Informative: Provides valuable insights or solutions to your audience’s problems.
- Aligned: Matches your brand’s voice and mission.
For example, if you run a health and wellness blog, your core content might include articles on nutrition, exercise routines, and mental health tips.
What Is the Role of 20% Exploratory Content?
The 20% exploratory content allows you to delve into related topics that are not your primary focus. This content is crucial for reaching new audiences and expanding your brand’s scope. Exploratory content should be:
- Relevant: Related to your core themes but covers new angles or perspectives.
- Engaging: Captures the interest of both existing and new audiences.
- Diverse: Includes different formats like interviews, guest posts, or case studies.
For instance, a tech company might explore emerging technologies or interview industry leaders to provide fresh insights.
Why Is 10% Experimental Content Important?
The 10% experimental content is where creativity and innovation come into play. This content allows you to test new ideas, formats, or platforms. Experimental content should be:
- Innovative: Pushes the boundaries of your typical content.
- Risk-Taking: Accepts that not every experiment will succeed.
- Feedback-Oriented: Uses audience feedback to refine future strategies.
An example could be experimenting with interactive content like quizzes or virtual reality experiences to engage users in novel ways.
Benefits of the 70 20 10 Rule
Implementing the 70 20 10 rule offers several advantages:
- Balanced Approach: Ensures a stable content output while allowing room for growth and innovation.
- Audience Engagement: Keeps your audience interested with a mix of familiar and new content.
- Brand Growth: Encourages exploration of new topics and formats, potentially reaching wider audiences.
How to Implement the 70 20 10 Rule
To effectively use the 70 20 10 rule, consider the following steps:
- Identify Core Topics: Determine the main themes that align with your brand and audience needs.
- Plan Exploratory Content: Identify related topics that can expand your reach.
- Experiment Wisely: Allocate resources for innovative projects, analyzing results to guide future content.
Practical Example of the 70 20 10 Rule
Consider a fashion brand implementing this rule:
- 70% Core Content: Regular blog posts on seasonal trends and style tips.
- 20% Exploratory Content: Articles on sustainable fashion practices and interviews with designers.
- 10% Experimental Content: Hosting virtual fashion shows or creating AR try-on experiences.
People Also Ask
What Are the Benefits of Using the 70 20 10 Rule?
The 70 20 10 rule helps maintain a balanced content strategy, ensuring consistent audience engagement while fostering innovation. It allows brands to focus on their strengths, explore new opportunities, and experiment with creative ideas.
How Can Small Businesses Use the 70 20 10 Rule?
Small businesses can use the 70 20 10 rule by focusing on core content that highlights their unique value, exploring related topics to reach new audiences, and experimenting with low-cost innovative ideas like social media campaigns or collaborations.
Is the 70 20 10 Rule Applicable to Social Media Content?
Yes, the 70 20 10 rule can be applied to social media content. Businesses can focus 70% on consistent brand messaging, 20% on engaging with trending topics, and 10% on testing new platforms or content types.
Can the 70 20 10 Rule Be Adjusted?
The 70 20 10 rule is flexible and can be adjusted to fit specific business goals or industry dynamics. Some businesses may choose to allocate more resources to exploratory or experimental content based on their strategic needs.
What Are Some Examples of Experimental Content?
Examples of experimental content include interactive infographics, live-streaming events, virtual reality experiences, and user-generated content campaigns. These formats can engage audiences in new and exciting ways.
Conclusion
The 70 20 10 rule of content is a powerful framework for balancing consistency and innovation in content strategy. By focusing on core topics, exploring related themes, and experimenting with new ideas, businesses can effectively engage their audience and drive growth. Implementing this rule requires careful planning and a willingness to adapt, but the potential benefits make it a valuable tool for any content creator. Consider integrating this strategy into your content planning to see how it can enhance your brand’s reach and impact.
