10 First Steps to Take to Start Creating Content

Content creation is an exciting world of expression, connection, and impact. With the digital age granting almost everyone access to a platform, it can seem like everyone but you is producing content. However, remember that every content creator starts somewhere. If you're wondering how to actually begin, read on!

1. Define Your Why

Why do you want to create content? Is it to share a hobby, educate, entertain, or market a business? Your motivation serves as the compass for your content journey, so it’s crucial to define it early on.

2. Identify Your Niche

While it's tempting to create content on anything and everything, specificity is key. What topics are you passionate about? What subjects do you possess expertise in? Narrowing your focus to a specific niche will make your content more appealing to a targeted audience.

3. Choose Your Medium

Different messages are best conveyed through various mediums:

Blogging: Best for long-form, written content.

Video: Ideal for visual tutorials, vlogs, or entertainment.

Podcasts: Perfect for in-depth conversations and interviews.

Photography/Art: Platforms like Instagram or Pinterest might be your stage.

Micro-blogging: Twitter, for short bursts of valuable content.

Pick one or two platforms to begin with; you can always expand later.

4. Equip Yourself

You don’t need the most expensive equipment, but some basics will be essential:

Blogging: A laptop and a platform like WordPress or Medium.

Video: A smartphone or camera, a tripod, basic video editing software.

Podcasts: A decent microphone and recording/editing software.

Research affordable tools tailored to your chosen medium.

5. Draft a Content Calendar

Planning is pivotal. Start with one piece of content a week (or even bi-weekly). Jot down topic ideas and assign them dates. This helps in:

Consistency: Vital for building and maintaining an audience.

Overcoming Writer's Block: Knowing your next topic reduces procrastination. Click here for some tips to overcome writer’s block.

6. Create & Edit

Now, the fun part! Start creating:

For Writing: Draft, step away, then return to edit with fresh eyes.

For Video: Plan your scenes, shoot, and edit.

For Podcasts: Plan your topic or interview, record, and edit.

Always aim for quality over quantity. Your audience will appreciate well-thought-out, polished content.

7. Publish & Promote

Once you're happy with your content:

Hit Publish: Don't overthink. No content is perfect.

Share on Social Media: Use your personal channels or create dedicated ones.

Engage with Communities: Share on forums, groups, or communities that appreciate your niche.

8. Gather Feedback & Iterate

Engage with your audience.

Respond to Comments: It builds community and trust.

Request Feedback: Actively ask your audience what they'd like to see next.

Adjust Accordingly: If a format or topic isn't resonating, pivot.

9. Stay Updated & Consistent

Follow Trends: What’s new in your niche? Can you provide a fresh perspective?

Consistency: Even if you're not publishing frequently, maintain a schedule and stick to it.

10. Celebrate & Continue Learning

Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Whether it's your first 100 readers or your first comment, these are proof of your progress.

Regularly invest time in learning — watch webinars, read articles, and take courses to refine your skills and understand content trends.

Starting to create content may feel daunting, but remember, every content creator was once where you are now. It's a journey filled with growth, connection, and self-expression. So, take that first step, and soon enough, you'll find your rhythm and voice in the vast world of content creation. Happy creating!