Small But Mighty
When it comes to content marketing, one size definitely does not fit all. Some businesses thrive on long, in-depth articles that establish credibility and boost SEO, while others win with quick, engaging snippets that grab attention fast. So, should your business invest in detailed blog writing, or is bite-sized content the way to go? As a small business digital agency in Melbourne, we break down the pros and cons of each approach to help you create a content strategy and marketing plan that delivers real results.
What is Long-Form Content?
Long-form content is typically 1,000 words or more and includes blog articles, whitepapers, eBooks, in-depth guides, and case studies. These pieces dive deep into topics, providing well-researched and valuable insights.
Pros of Long-Form Content:
- Stronger SEO Performance: Google prioritises in-depth, high-quality content. According to a 2023 Semrush study, articles between 1,500-2,000 words receive more backlinks and rank higher.
- More Engagement & Authority: Long-form content allows you to establish thought leadership, making it ideal for complex industries like finance, healthcare, and technology.
- Better Lead Generation: Gated long-form content, such as eBooks and whitepapers, can be used to collect emails and generate leads.
Cons of Long-Form Content:
- Time-Consuming: Researching, writing, and editing long-form content takes significant effort, which may not be feasible for businesses with limited resources.
- Lower Read Rates: While long content provides depth, many readers skim or abandon it, especially if it lacks engaging visuals or a clear structure.
What is Short-Form Content?
Short-form content includes blog posts under 1,000 words, social media updates, infographics, and email newsletters. It delivers quick, digestible information and works well for grabbing attention.
Pros of Short-Form Content:
- Quicker to Produce: Ideal for businesses that need to maintain a steady content flow without investing too much time and effort.
- Higher Shareability: Short, punchy articles and social posts tend to get shared more on social media, increasing brand visibility.
- Better for Mobile Users: With mobile-first browsing dominating web traffic, shorter content is often more accessible and convenient.
Cons of Short-Form Content:
- Limited Depth: While engaging, short-form content often lacks the depth needed to establish industry authority.
- Less SEO Potential: Shorter articles generally don’t perform as well in search rankings compared to long-form content.
Which Content Format Should You Use?
The best approach depends on your audience, goals, and resources. If you’re a small business digital agency in Melbourne looking to boost content marketing, a combination of both formats works best.
When to Use Long-Form Content:
- When educating your audience on a complex topic
- If your goal is to rank higher on search engines
- When generating leads through in-depth content offers
When to Use Short-Form Content:
- To create engaging social media and email content
- When aiming for higher content frequency
- To cater to mobile users and time-poor audiences
Finding the Right Balance for Your Business’s Digital Marketing
Instead of choosing one over the other, it’s best to integrate blog writing strategies that leverage both formats. A strong content marketing plan should include long-form articles for SEO and authority while using short-form content for engagement and brand awareness. If you need expert guidance, a small business digital agency in Melbourne can help tailor a blog writing strategy that maximises both content formats effectively.