The phrase "Content is king" is a mantra that every webmaster should be familiar with. After investing time and resources to attract a significant audience to your website, it's the quality and originality of your content that will keep them coming back.
Initially, I was of the opinion that in the digital world, the design, navigation, loading time, and other technical aspects of a website were more important than the content. However, I've come to realize that the information you present on your site is just as crucial, if not more so, than how you present it.
In today's digital age, content is readily available. Online syndication firms like iSyndicate and Moreover offer free JAVA script or HTML code that automatically updates your site with fresh content daily.
However, as the internet evolves, merely hosting someone else's content and redirecting your visitors to other websites may not be enough to maintain brand loyalty. Advertisers are not just interested in the number of hits your site gets, but also the amount of time users spend on your site.
If you're serious about providing quality content, you should consider ways to keep visitors coming back to your site and staying longer. This can be achieved by either developing your own content in-house or incorporating syndicated content onto your site.
If you're not inclined towards writing, you can hire experienced or aspiring journalists who would be eager to contribute to your site. This approach would be cost-effective, depending on the level of experience you're looking for, and it would ensure a steady flow of fresh content. The average payment for online writers is around 5 cents per word, with articles typically ranging from 500 to 750 words.
If you're willing to invest more and prefer not to handle the hiring and editing process yourself, there are numerous quality licensed syndication companies designed specifically for internet delivery. Companies like Screaming Media, iSyndicate, and 7am.com can help you incorporate their daily content into your site for a fee.
However, it's crucial to strive for originality. Many content providers already carry traditional services like Reuters, the Associated Press, and UPI. If possible, try to find a syndicated content feed from a different provider that can give your site a unique feel.
Not all content is created equal, even if the subject matter is the same. For instance, Reuters and the AP may cover a topic similarly, but USAJournal or WorldNetDaily may offer a completely different perspective.
In conclusion, if you've invested time and resources in driving traffic to your site, it's now time to focus on building brand recognition and loyalty. This kind of loyalty keeps your site numbers high and your advertising/marketing potential high as well. Always remember, "Content is king!
