What is Long-Form Content?
Long-form content is over 1,000 words and goes into detail on a topic. Unlike short-form content, which is brief and to the point, long-form content goes deeper into a subject, explains, informs, and often covers everything. Examples of long-form content are in-depth blog posts, whitepapers, e-books, comprehensive guides, and case studies.
Long-form content is valued for its ability to tackle complex topics, provide value to the reader and boost a website’s SEO. It’s particularly good for industries where information and expertise is key.
Why is Long-Form Content Important?
Long-form content is important for content marketing for several reasons:
- Better SEO: Search engines like Google favor long-form content because it usually provides more value to the user. According to a study by Backlinko, the average Google first-page result is 1,447 words. Longer content has more keywords, covers the topic more comprehensively and gets more backlinks – all of which contributes to higher search engine rankings.
- More Engagement: Long-form content is designed to keep the reader engaged for longer. By providing detailed and valuable information it encourages the reader to spend more time on your site which can lead to higher engagement metrics such as lower bounce rates and higher time-on-page.
- Establishing Authority: Producing long-form content shows your expertise and authority on a topic. When readers find your content goes into depth and covers everything, they are more likely to see your brand as a trusted source of information. This can help build credibility and trust with your audience.
- Better Conversions: Long-form content has multiple opportunities for conversion, such as calls to action (CTAs), lead magnets or links to related products or services. By engaging the reader with valuable content, you increase the chance they will take the desired action, whether that’s to subscribe to your newsletter, download a resource or make a purchase.
- Content Repurposing: Long-form content can be repurposed into shorter pieces such as blog posts, social media updates, infographics or videos. This allows you to get the most out of your content by reaching different segments of your audience across different platforms.
- Providing Everything: In a world where information is available everywhere audiences appreciate content that provides everything on a topic. Long-form content allows you to answer all the questions your audience has about a topic so they don’t have to go elsewhere to find the information.
Working With a Content Agency on Long-Form Content
A content production agency can help you develop and execute a long-form content strategy that matches your business goals. Agencies have expertise in content creation, research and SEO so your long-form content is informative, optimized for search engines and engaging for your audience.
By working with a content agency you can get the benefits of long-form content to boost your website, establish your brand as an expert in your industry and drive conversions.