Don’t build your castle on rented land: Why your digital marketing should start with website content instead of social media!

In today's digital age, a lot of our clients often tell us they are enticed by the allure of social media platforms. With their vast user bases and promise of instant visibility, it's easy to see why many brands prioritise social media in their marketing strategies.


However, the wisdom of the adage "Don’t build your castle on rented land" is crucial when it comes to digital marketing. Focusing on adding content to your own website should be the cornerstone of your strategy, rather than placing undue emphasis on social media.

 


First and foremost, your website is an asset you fully control.


Unlike social media platforms, where algorithms and policies can change overnight, your website is a stable foundation. By investing in your site, you ensure that your content remains accessible and governed by your rules. This autonomy allows you to create a tailored user experience, build your brand identity, and provide uninterrupted access to your information and services.

 

Furthermore, website content is a long-term investment in your digital presence. High-quality content, optimised for search engines (SEO), attracts organic traffic that can grow over time. Unlike social media posts, which quickly become outdated and lost in the endless scroll, website content can remain relevant and continue to attract visitors for months or even years. This ongoing traffic not only increases visibility but also establishes your site as an authority in your industry.

 

Creating valuable content on your website also builds credibility and trust with your audience. When potential customers visit your site and find informative blogs, detailed product descriptions, and insightful resources, they are more likely to view your brand as an expert in its field. This trust translates into higher conversion rates and customer loyalty, which are crucial for long-term success.

 

While social media is a powerful tool for engagement and brand awareness, it should complement, not replace, your website content strategy. Social platforms are excellent for driving traffic to your site, fostering community, and promoting your content, but relying solely on them is risky. Changes in platform policies, algorithm updates, or even the decline of a social network can jeopardise your visibility and reach.

 

Moreover, owning your content and its distribution means better data ownership and insights. Analytics from your website provide deeper, more accurate data about your visitors’ behaviours, preferences, and demographics. This information is invaluable for refining your marketing strategies and improving customer experiences.

 

In conclusion, while social media is an essential component of modern marketing, your digital strategy should begin with a robust foundation of website content. By doing so, you ensure stability, control, and sustainable growth for your brand. Don’t build your castle on rented land; invest in your own digital real estate to create a lasting, impactful online presence.


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Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author: A former Royal Marines officer and advisor to the BBC, Chris has travelled in over 60 countries, is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, a Guinness World Record holder for rowing over 3500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, a Marathon des Sables finisher, and is the founder of ‘Haus of Hiatus’, a website design and branding studio that designs and amplifies start-ups, scale-ups and special projects around the world.

He has worked with Hollywood actors, world–renowned musical artists and TV personalities, and is delighted to have had his work featured by the United Nations, Red Bull, BBC, and even seen at the South Pole!

https://www.hausofhiatus.com/team
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