How much does content marketing cost? It’s a question that many businesses, especially those just starting out, often ask.
The truth is, content marketing expenses vary depending on various factors.
However, here’s the good news: you don’t need a huge budget to get started with content marketing.
So, let’s find out how much it really costs and how you can make it work for you.
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The Costs Depend on Several Factors
When it comes to content marketing, the costs can vary depending on a few factors. These include the type of content marketing you choose, the scope of your strategy, the quality of your content, whether you handle it in-house or outsource it, and how you distribute and promote it.
Let’s break them down one by one to make it easier for you.
Type of Content Marketing Chosen
Different types of content marketing require different resources and investments.
For example, creating written blog posts may require less financial investment compared to producing high-quality videos or hosting webinars.
So, it’s important to consider your goals and budget when deciding on the type of content marketing that suits you best.
Scope of the Content Marketing Strategy
The scope of your content marketing strategy refers to the breadth and depth of your efforts.
Are you aiming to create content for just one platform or multiple platforms?
Are you targeting a niche audience or a broader market?
The more extensive your strategy, the higher the costs may be.
However, don’t let that discourage you. You can start small and gradually expand your strategy as you achieve success.
Quality of the Content
Investing in high-quality content is crucial for attracting and retaining your audience.
While it may require a bigger investment, quality content often yields better results in terms of audience engagement and conversion rates.
So, consider hiring professional content creators, designers, or videographers to ensure your content stands out from the crowd.
In-House vs. Outsourcing
Deciding whether to handle content creation in-house or outsource it is another factor to consider.
Hiring skilled professionals within your team may require higher salaries and additional resources.
But did you know that around 84% of B2B organizations actually outsource their content creation? It’s a popular choice in the industry, and for good reason.
On the other hand, outsourcing can provide cost-effective solutions while still maintaining quality standards. So, weigh the pros and cons and choose the option that suits your resources and goals.
Content Distribution and Promotion
Creating great content is just the beginning.
You also need to distribute and promote it to reach your target audience effectively.
This may involve using social media platforms, paid advertising channels, or influencer collaborations. The costs associated with distribution and promotion will depend on your chosen channels and the scale of your campaign.
So, choose the channels that align with your target audience and budget.
Cost Breakdown by Content Type
Whether you’re planning to write blog posts, create videos, or design graphics, knowing what to expect in terms of pricing can help you budget effectively.
To give you an idea, here are some cost ranges for different content types:
Blog Posts
Writing your own blog posts can save you money, especially if you enjoy writing. Research shows that an experienced writer may spend around 6 hours creating a high-quality blog post with 2,000 words or more.
If a writer charges $0.1 per word, the cost for a 2,000-word blog post can range from $200 to $2,000 or more.
However, the average cost per word for blog posts can vary depending on the writer’s experience and the specific needs of the project.
However, if you’re just starting out and looking to hire a beginner writer, you can expect to pay between 50 cents and $1 per word. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more experienced writer, the cost per word will be higher.
However, if you want an excellent blog post that drives results, the cost may even range from $1,500 to $6,000 on average.
And don’t forget about the use of AI in writing.
If you want to speed up your writing process, there are various AI writing tools available starting at just $49 per month.
Videos
Creating videos can seem like a big task. You might need some equipment, editing software, and maybe even some help from a videographer.
But, even if you’re on a budget, there are options for you too. Platforms like Fiverr offer a wide range of video creators at different price points. You can find options starting from as low as $50 and going up to $500 per video.
And here’s the best part – you can even get started on your own with what you already have! Yes, that’s right, your smartphone and laptop can be your tools to begin creating videos.
There are also plenty of online video editing tools available that don’t require any software installation. It’s as simple as finding the right tool for you and getting started.
Graphics
Graphic design is a valuable skill that can really give your content a professional edge.
Whether you need logos, social media graphics, or illustrations, a graphic designer can take your content to the next level.
Now, you might be wondering how much it costs to hire a graphic designer.
Well, the rates can vary quite a bit. If you’re looking for someone with more experience, you can expect to pay between $65 and $150 per hour. On the other hand, if you’re working with an entry-level freelance designer, rates generally range from $25 to $50 per hour.
Now, you might be wondering where to find these designers.
Luckily, there are plenty of freelance graphic design websites where you can find project-based pricing or hourly rates. And don’t forget about local agencies too – they can be a great resource.
Remember, these are just rough estimates and prices can vary depending on various factors such as content length, complexity, and the expertise of the designer.
The key is to find a balance between budget and quality that works best for you.
Research, reach out to freelancers or agencies, and find the best fit for your needs.
Tools and Resources
Despite the type of content you choose, there are some additional expenses related to content marketing, and one of the main ones is investing in the right tools and resources.
Let’s take a look at some popular tools that can help you level up your content marketing game:
Content Research
BuzzSumo is a powerful tool for researching popular content and analyzing trends. It helps you discover what topics resonate with your audience and provides insights into content performance.
Content Creation Tools
Google Docs, ChatGPT, and Copy.ai are fantastic tools to help you create engaging and captivating content. Whether you need assistance with writing, brainstorming ideas, or generating content, these tools have got your back.
Editing Tools
Grammarly and Wordtune can be lifesavers when it comes to proofreading and polishing your written content. They can help you catch those pesky grammar mistakes and suggest improvements to make your writing shine.
When it comes to video editing, you can explore online tools like VEED.io or use PC software such as Premier Pro or Final Cut Pro.
Publishing Tools
WordPress, and Ghost are platforms that allow you to easily publish and manage your content. They offer user-friendly interfaces and various customization options to suit your needs.
Visual Content Creation Tools
Canva, Adobe Photoshop, and Figma are excellent tools for creating eye-catching visuals to accompany your content. Whether it’s social media graphics, infographics, or images for your blog, these tools have got you covered.
Social Media Promotion Tools
Buffer, Hootsuite, and FeedHive can streamline your social media marketing efforts. They allow you to schedule posts, engage with your audience, and analyze your social media performance.
Email Marketing Tools
Mailchimp, ConvertKit, and Constant Contact are popular tools for managing and automating your email campaigns. They provide templates, analytics, and segmentation options to help you connect with your subscribers effectively.
SEO and Content Ranking Tools
Semrush, Ahrefs, and Google Search Console are essential for optimizing your content for search engines. They help you identify keywords, analyze your competitors, and track your website’s performance.
Project Management Tools
ClickUp, Slack, and Notion can help you stay organized and collaborate effectively with your team. These tools offer features like task management, file sharing, and communication channels to keep everyone on the same page.
Content Management Tools
HubSpot is a comprehensive tool that covers various aspects of content marketing, from creation to analytics. It offers features like content planning, SEO optimization, and lead nurturing.
Analytics Tools
Google Analytics is a must-have tool for tracking and analyzing your website’s performance. It provides valuable insights into your audience, traffic sources, and user behavior that can guide your content strategy.
The best part is that many of these tools offer a pack of features within their subscription plans, saving you money compared to hiring an agency.
But ultimately, the choice is yours, and you can start with the tools that align with your budget and goals.
Content Marketing Costs: A Summary
Now you have a general understanding of content marketing and the areas you should focus on. However, it’s important to note that there isn’t an exact cost we can mention, but there are three options you can define your costs.
Let’s break it down this way:
Doing It Yourself (DIY)
If you decide to handle content marketing on your own, the costs will mainly involve your time and any necessary tools or software. You should also consider the expenses of any paid advertising or promotion you plan to include in your content marketing strategy.
Hiring a Freelancer
Freelancer costs can vary greatly. For content creation, a 2000 words blog post can cost anywhere from $200 to $2000, depending on the freelancer’s rates. The cost of hiring a freelancer for content marketing can also depend on the type of content and the scope of your strategy.
Working with an Agency
Content marketing package costs from agencies can vary significantly, starting from $2,500 to going up to $10,000 or more, depending on the package you choose. When working with an agency, you can expect a customized content marketing plan, a team of experts, regular communication, and an overarching strategy.
Whether you choose to do it yourself, hire a freelancer, or work with an agency, the key is to understand the value it can bring to your business.
So, why not give it a try?
