There are so many things you can do to make yourself a better marketer. Just the fact that you’re asking this question is already a clear indicator that you’re on the right track. Having been in this industry for years, I’ve learned that content marketing is an ever-evolving industry that demands constant learning. Our desire to keep adapting as the technology and techniques in this business evolve will help us stand out from the competition.

That said, I do have a few guidelines that I think are worth noting in your quest to become a better content marketer.

1. Hone your storytelling skills

In my experience, content marketers are natural strategists. They know how to approach marketing challenges systematically and can carefully map out the steps needed to reach targets and goals. However, great content marketers are strategic thinkers and exceptional storytellers. A plan of action is nothing if it’s not backed by a great story that will capture the attention of your audience, engage them, and spur them to action.

2. Recognize the importance of project management skills

A strong content strategy involves a lot of moving parts—multiple pieces of content across different platforms, possibly different points of contact, various platforms and media, not to mention coordination with multiple stakeholders, creatives, contributors, and editors. Great content marketers have to be well organized and should have solid project management skills to ensure that everything runs seamlessly.

3. Be adaptable and flexible

Great content marketers know that flexibility and agility in this industry make for a strong competitive advantage. While it’s critical that everything is carefully mapped out, you also have to be able to hit the ground running when something unexpected comes up. This requires thinking outside the box and approaching typical challenges creatively.

4. Expand your creative repertoire

Content isn’t simply articles and blogs. Writing is one of the most important skills to have as a content marketer, but the way content is being consumed by audiences is constantly changing. For example, 60% of businesses today use video as a marketing tool. Podcasts are also a growing platform that is worth paying attention to. Visual marketing via platforms like Instagram and Pinterest means photography and graphic design skills are even more critical for content marketers. Stay up to date on what platforms audiences are responding to and expand your production skills to explore their potential for your business.

5. Collaboration is key

Being a great content marketer means you can’t work in a silo. Trying to do everything yourself can lead to getting overwhelmed and possibly making mistakes. Collaboration is a critical skill for content marketers as it allows you to work efficiently and smartly.

There you have it. Hope my answer helps. If you have more to add, I’d be happy to hear about it. Join the conversation on Twitter or LinkedIn or leave a comment below.