Content Creation in 2023: A Step-by-step Guide

Want to create content, but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered. 

Whether you’re a brand, social media manager, or budding creator, we’re sharing our ultimate guide to content creation — in seven easy steps. 

What is Content Creation?

Content creation is exactly what it sounds like: the process of creating content. 

It can involve research, writing, photography (or videography), editing, graphic design — and typically, a whole lot of creativity. 

From blogs and ebooks to TikToks and Reels — if its goal is to provide information, inspiration, or entertainment, it’s good ol’ content creation.  

FYI: Later is a social media management tool trusted by over 7M brands, creators, and social media managers. Start planning, scheduling, and analyzing your content today — sign up for free:

Why is Content Creation Important?

Ultimately, content creation is the key to building (and sustaining) a community online.

“As a creator, your editing and filming style, voiceovers, music, and sound effects are all stylistic choices you make to establish your online brand,” says Later's Social Media Specialist, Chantal Hermetz. 

“Creators like Monet McMichael have built successful careers in content creation thanks to their creativity, uniqueness, and shining personalities.”

It works for businesses too.

“Think of brands like ScrubDaddy and RyanAir who have transformed their ‘everyday’ products and services into entertaining, original content,” Chantal adds.

Not only is it a good brand awareness play — it can help turn casual followers into loyal brand ambassadors. 

TLDR: content creation = views and brand recognition galore. 

ICYMI: You can plan and automatically publish your Instagram content with Later's scheduling tools — sign up today:

7 Easy Steps to Content Creation

Ready to start creating? Here’s how to master content creation in seven easy steps:

1. Set SMART Goals

2. Do Your Research

3. Build Your Toolbox 

4. Brainstorm Content Ideas

5. Create & Edit Your Content

6. Schedule & Post Your Content

7. Analyze Your Results  

Step #1: Set SMART Goals

Setting social media goals is the foundation on which your content creation strategy will be built. 

It'll inform the type of content you create, the cadence, and define your "why."

If you’re a creator, you might be looking to improve engagement. 

If you’re a brand, generating leads may be top of mind. 

But in order to drive success, your goals need to be SMART:

1. Specific 

2. Measurable 

3. Achievable 

4. Relevant 

5. Timely 

Learn how to set intentional, SMART social media goals in this Later blog: How to Set Social Media Goals in 2023 (+ Achieve Them!).

Step #2: Do Your Research

The next step to content creation? Stop, drop, and research. 

If you want to increase engagement, scroll your feed and take note of the type of content that generally produces a lot of views or comments.

Look for similarities and gaps within your own content strategy — and see where you can put your own spin on what you find. 

TIP: If you don't know where to start, consider what you love to engage with — which creators (or brands) do you follow?

Step #3: Build Your Toolbox 

The right tools can make all the difference in streamlining your ability to create scroll-stopping, consistent content. 

And from educational resources to editing apps to scheduling tools, there are tons to choose from. 

FYI: We’ve rounded up some of our favorites that’ll work for creators (and brands too!): The Top Content Creation Tools for Creators and Influencers in 2023

Step #4: Brainstorm Content Ideas

Remember that research we did earlier? It’s time to put on your brainstorming hat. 

Ask yourself:

• Who is my target audience?

• What topics resonate with them?

• How can I provide value — whether it’s by making them laugh, learn, or be inspired? 

Then, decide on content types.

Does a Reel make the most sense for a certain idea, or would it be better executed as a blog post? Could the blog post be repurposed into a Reel and a carousel? 

Once you have your ideas roughly layed out, you’re ready to create. 

Step #5: Create & Edit Your Content

You’ve completed all the necessary steps and alas, it’s finally time to create your content!

Whether you’re assigning tasks to your team or bringing your vision to life solo, take the time to draft, review, and re-film (or re-write) if you need to. 

Once your content is up to par, congrats — the hard part is officially over. 

Get all the deets on Later’s content strategy: How We Plan Our Social Media Content Strategy at Later.

Step #6: Schedule & Post Your Content

The sixth and final step is to share your shiny piece of content with the world. 

If it’s headed to your socials, using a social media scheduler to plan and post your content is the best way to save time, stay organized, and be consistent. 

With Later, you can plan all of your social posts from one centralized dashboard, and schedule them ahead of time.

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When it's time to post, Later does all the hard work for you. Simple as that.

Step #7: Analyze Your Results 

By reviewing your insights on a weekly (and monthly) basis, you'll see how your content is resonating and whether you're tracking towards your goals.

For blog and website traffic, keep an eye on your Google Analytics dashboard. 

For social media content, Later’s Analytics tool is the simplest way to track in-depth social media data like growth rate, views, and more.