Attention Content Creators! Don't Be Afraid to Have a Point of View.

Will Armstrong *

Armstrong Public Relations *

With so much content out there, it can be hard to stand out. As content creators, we're constantly searching for the perfect formula to create something that resonates with people. We want our content to be popular and well-liked, but in our quest for mass appeal, we often forget one crucial thing: having a point of view. In this blog post, we'll explore why having a point of view is crucial for content creators and how to develop one that resonates with your target audience.

It is easy to become overwhelmed and intimidated by the opinions of others, especially when we put ourselves out there in a public way. This is something that celebrities, influencers, and other public figures are all too familiar with. Years ago, I dated a guy who worked as a producer on a daytime talk show. The host of the show was a beloved female comic who had developed a habit of reading every comment attached to her show's social media posts and allowing those comments to dictate the overall vibe of her show. Instead of taking risks or being a thought leader, she became paralyzed by fear due to the opinions expressed by her viewers. Unfortunately, her show didn't last the past two seasons.

Many content creators make the mistake of creating content that is too general, and too universal. They are trying to please everyone, but end up not resonating with anyone. Having a point of view means taking a stance, having a unique perspective, and expressing it through your content. This is important because it sets you apart and helps you establish yourself as an authority on a particular topic.

To develop a point of view, start by identifying your core target audience. Who are you creating content for? This can be a group of people who share certain interests or values, or it can be a demographic that you think would benefit from your expertise. Once you have a clear idea of your target audience, you can start crafting content that speaks directly to them. Just don’t forget your voice and what makes you unique.

The second part of developing a point of view is identifying your expertise. What knowledge or skills do you possess that sets you apart from others in your field? This can be anything from a specialized hobby to formal education to work experience. Your expertise helps you create content that is both unique and valuable to your target audience.

Finally, it's important to consider how your audience is going to benefit from your expertise. This is where having a point of view really comes into play. Your perspective and knowledge should be used to help your audience solve problems, build skills or gain insights. By sharing your point of view, you give your audience a reason to listen to what you have to say - you are more than just a generic source of information.

Now remember, be brave and stay strong. Years ago, when I worked in musical theater, I was on tour with the iconic Toni Tennille. I asked her once if she ever read the reviews written about our show. She answered, "Honey no! Because if you believe the good ones, you have to believe the bad ones." Toni's philosophy was one of focusing on the work itself rather than getting caught up in external validation or criticism. This wisdom is rooted in an understanding that no matter how much praise you receive, there will always be critics ready to point out your flaws. By embracing this idea, creators can stay focused on improving their craft instead of worrying about what others think.

There can be some risks associated with having a strong point of view. You might alienate certain audiences or create controversy. However, it's important to remember that being generic and unmemorable is a greater risk. By standing out with a unique perspective, you are more likely to attract an engaged and enthusiastic audience, one that values your expertise and point of view.

In conclusion, having a point of view is crucial for content creators. It allows you to differentiate yourself, establish yourself as an authority, and create content that resonates with a targeted audience. By identifying your core target audience, your expertise, how your audience will benefit from it, and believing in yourself you can create content that stands out and makes a lasting impression. Don't be afraid to take a stance, express your opinions, and present your unique perspective - this is what sets you apart and gives your content value.