Content Launch Success: A Break Down the Three Common Mistakes
Episode 484
Hey there, podcasters! Have you ever found yourself scrambling to create content during a launch, muttering, “There’s got to be a better way!”? You’re in the right place if you’ve been there—frazzled, overwhelmed, and posting random content. Today, we’re tackling one of the biggest hurdles for creators: strategic content planning when launches, events, and projects are piling up.
Recently, I got a question from Hannah in our community that hit home. She asked,
“I feel like I need more in-depth information on how to strategically plan my content when I have launches and stuff involved. I’m so bad about actually planning and just put out whatever I get done first.”
Sound familiar? It definitely did for me.
Let me tell you about when I bombed a launch because I posted content that had zero connection to what I was selling. Spoiler: It flopped. But hey, that disaster taught me some invaluable lessons. Now, I have strategies to ensure my content works with my launches, not against them—and I’m sharing them with you today.
Why Strategic Content Planning is Crucial
Let’s start with the why. Strategic content planning isn’t just about ticking a box or being consistent; it’s about guiding your audience on a journey. When you wing it, you risk confusing them—or worse, stressing yourself out for no reason. But with a plan, every post, episode, or email works together like a well-oiled machine to build trust and lead your audience toward your launch goals.
For example, during my Black Friday membership promo, I created weeks of content around solving podcasters’ biggest pain points—like simplifying workflows and monetizing small audiences. When I opened the cart, my audience wasn’t just interested; they were ready to buy.
Hannah, since you inspired this, here’s my challenge for you (and everyone reading): Start mapping out your content today. By the end of this post, you’ll have the tools to make it happen!
The 3 Phases of Content Launch Success Planning
1. Pre-Launch (6-8 Weeks Before)
This is your time to educate and tease. Solve problems, spark curiosity, and get your audience thinking, “I need this in my life!”
- Example: A podcast episode on “The Top 5 Mistakes Podcasters Make During Launches” can naturally segue into your offer.
- Personal Tip: I start teasing my audience two months in advance—it’s like planting seeds for the big harvest.
2. Launch Week
Time to bring the heat. Focus on urgency, tackle objections, and showcase testimonials.
- Example: Host a live Q&A or post behind-the-scenes stories about your offer.
- Story: During one launch, I noticed the same question repeatedly popping up. I recorded a bonus podcast episode mid-launch, and it helped close sales like magic!
3. Post-Launch
The cart’s closed, but the work isn’t done. Recap, celebrate, and nurture non-buyers for next time.
- Example: A podcast episode called “Behind the Scenes of My Launch” or a gratitude post for your audience.
- Tip: This phase builds momentum for your next launch and keeps your audience engaged.
Step-by-Step Content Planning Process
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Mark Your Calendar and Work Backward: Start with your launch date and outline weekly themes leading up to it.
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Brainstorm and Batch Create: Dedicate a day to brainstorming and another to batch-create similar tasks (e.g., record multiple episodes in one sitting).
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Repurpose Content: One piece of content can be repurposed in multiple ways. A podcast episode can become an email, a social post, and a webinar topic.
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Leave Room for Flexibility: Plan 80%, but leave 20% open for pivots or real-time audience engagement.
Overcoming Overwhelm
Feeling like this is a lot? You’re not alone. Here are a few tips to make it manageable:
- Batch Your Tasks: Record, edit, and create graphics in chunks—it’s a lifesaver.
- Use Templates: Templates keep your content consistent and save brainpower.
- Find Accountability: Whether it’s a coach, a friend, or a community like Podcasters Connect, having someone in your corner helps.
- Tough Love: If you’re bad at sticking to a plan, that’s exactly why you need one. Winging it isn’t a business strategy; it’s a stress strategy.
Wrapping It Up
Strategic content planning might not be glamorous, but it’s the secret sauce to smoother launches, happier audiences, and healthier bank accounts. Start early, align your content with your goals, and don’t forget to repurpose and batch to save time.
And if you’re looking for a little help, check out Podcasters Connect. With templates, coaching, and accountability pods, it’s your ultimate content-planning BFF.
Now, grab your favorite drink, crack open that planner, and map out your next content launch success. You’ve got this!
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