Creating and executing the perfect content marketing strategy requires more than a goal. It depends on having the right people running your content program. Today’s business landscape demands high-quality content in order to be seen, and to stand out. However, hiring the perfect marketer can be a little challenging. The following list details some of the things to keep in mind when searching for your next content marketer.
Look for These Attributes
Everyone is different, which means you are going to see a variety of personalities when you begin to interview. According to TINYpulse, the best way to hire for the job is to understand which attributes you want in your content marketer. For example, a lot of content marketers and writers are introverts. Because of this, your candidates may not demonstrate leadership qualities in an interview setting.
Is this important? It may not be, unless you are hiring for a management position. Instead, focus on the specific needs of the content role. Seek someone who’s organized, has excellent communication skills, and who is honest. Look for an individual who can write snappy headlines and also long-form content. Narrow down to candidates who can effectively and concisely communicate your brand’s value with creative ideas and energy. This may sound simple, but these are the attributes that make all of the difference for a good long-term hire.
How to Identify Favorable Attributes in a Content Marketer Candidate
Learning about a person’s strengths is often impossible during one 5-minute interview. Therefore, we highly recommend implementing procedures that help you to get to know the potential employee, and vice versa. As The Hire Talent suggests, pre-employment tests can be used to measure a candidate’s behavior, personality, reasoning, competency, integrity, skills, and cognitive ability. These tests enable you to observe the candidate in action. They also ensure that you consider all qualified candidates equally, without inadvertent bias.
Specific Questions for the Content Marketer Position
There is no doubt that you will come across excellent candidates for the job. However, one of the most common mistakes made during the hiring process is choosing someone is not suited for the type of content you produce. Even if they are a strong writer, they may not understand the intricacies of your industry. Or, they may not be able to grasp the needs and pain points of your target audience.
Because of this, it is crucial to ask questions to determine the interest of the candidate. For example, do they like to research? Are they willing to dive into your company and industry to learn about the nuances? These types of questions will help determine their suitability for the position.
Whether you’re seeking to hire one or ten content marketers, the process will no doubt be challenging. However, by simply adhering to the list above, you will begin to lay down a solid foundation for your future interviews. And if you are looking for a high-caliber external marketing agency to take over your content marketing program, please reach out to us for a proposal.
Looking for more marketing tips? We recommend: 5 Tips for Being “Social” on Social Media.