What's one content marketing skill you're actively working on improving? Share your learning process and any resources or strategies you're finding helpful.

Question

Content marketing is evolving rapidly, demanding a diverse set of skills from today's professionals. This comprehensive guide explores the top content marketing skills and resources, as identified by industry experts. From mastering narrative stacking to optimizing for AI-driven search, these insights will equip marketers with the knowledge needed to excel in the dynamic world of content creation.

Josiah Roche · Answer

One content marketing skill I've been focusing on is narrative stacking, because structuring content to hold attention from the first second to the last is crucial. Many content creators attempt to educate too early or overload the introduction with context that doesn't advance the story, which is typically where audience engagement drops off.
To enhance my skills, I've been studying how top creators and editors construct scenes, not just headlines. Instead of viewing a post as a single block, I break it down beat by beat—hook, tension, buildup, and release. This approach is similar to how film editors create rhythm.
Each week, I analyze 5 to 10 high-performing posts or videos by importing them into Notion and reverse engineering them step by step. Then, I rewrite those structures with different topics or angles, aiming to maintain the emotional flow while altering the message.
Descript has been valuable for dissecting spoken content—noting pauses, pivots, and punchlines—and I've begun applying this technique to written formats like threads and short-form scripts. I've been eliminating anything that doesn't create movement. If a line doesn't promote curiosity, emotion, or clarity, it gets removed.
Most storytelling books seem padded or outdated, so I've been watching breakdowns from creators like MrBeast or Alex Hormozi. They've taught me more about pacing and retention than any whitepaper. My goal isn't just to inform—it's to maintain attention long enough to influence.

Andrei Iunisov · Answer

The content marketing skill I'm most focused on right now is generative engine optimization (GEO), sometimes also called AI search optimization (AISEO). This is a strategy that every marketer will need to understand and be able to manage, as AI-driven search rapidly reshapes top-of-funnel product discovery. According to Gartner, by 2026, 80% of consumers will use generative AI tools as their primary source for product search. In my client experience, I see IT directors mapping their IT product requirements directly into ChatGPT and getting product recommendations that are worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. This means visibility is no longer just about Google rankings; it's about being referenced by large language models in their answers.
GEO is a very new discipline of making content LLM-friendly: structuring it so AI can understand, retrieve, and cite it accurately (this is a new vocabulary for marketing managers compared to ranking, indexing, or crawling). This requires more than keywords; it demands semantic clarity, entity-based optimization, strategically placed external links, comparison tables, FAQs, and more. My learning process combines experimentation with AI outputs and refining content to match what gets cited most often. I've also found in various research by SemRush and Otterly AI that seeding high-quality content on platforms like Reddit and Quora is critical. These communities serve as data training sources for LLMs, which means your content there has a higher chance of influencing AI-generated responses.
For anyone looking to dive deeper into GEO, I recommend several excellent resources: my own blog where I share some strategies I test, Duane Forrester's Substack on the future of AI search, and the iPullRank blog, which provides deep insights into the technical aspects underlying AI models.

Ritu Kumari · Answer

As a Content Team Lead, I've been focusing on getting better at content repurposing, taking one strong idea and turning it into multiple formats that actually work across different channels. 
It sounds simple, but doing it well takes strategy. 
For example, turning a long-form blog into a LinkedIn carousel isn't just about trimming words; it's about reshaping the message to match the platform and how people consume content there. 
I've been following experts like Amanda Natividad and Ross Simmonds, who share great frameworks for this. 
Also, I started mapping each piece of content in Notion, tagging it by theme and potential format, so we don't waste ideas. 
On top of that, I track performance across formats to see what resonates where, it's helping us create smarter, not more.

Kristin Marquet · Answer

One content marketing skill I'm actively working on right now is short-form video storytelling—specifically, creating high-value, brand-aligned Reels and TikToks that don't just "trend," but drive engagement and sales. As someone who has always leaned into long-form content, it has been a mindset shift to distill complex topics and frameworks into 30-60 seconds without losing impact or substance.
My learning process is a combination of research and experimentation: I study top-performing accounts outside my industry, breaking down their hooks, editing techniques, and calls to action. I set aside an hour weekly to storyboard quick ideas, script on the fly, and test different visuals and pacing. The most helpful resources so far? Later's blog for practical social tips, the "Video Creators" channel on YouTube, and consistent feedback from my team and even trusted clients.
I'm a firm believer that you learn by doing, so each week, I review analytics, iterate, and refine my approach. The goal is to master content that feels authentic to my brand and delivers real results, not just likes.

Paige Michael, RN · Answer

As Empathy First Media's PR specialist with a nursing background, I'm actively working on improving my video storytelling skills for healthcare client testimonials and expert interviews. While I'm comfortable with medical accuracy and patient privacy from my clinical experience, I'm learning to make these stories more visually compelling and emotionally engaging. My learning process includes studying successful healthcare video campaigns, taking Skillshare courses on video editing and narrative structure, and collaborating with our creative team to develop a more cinematic approach to patient success stories. The biggest challenge is translating complex medical journeys into digestible, empathetic narratives that maintain scientific integrity while connecting emotionally with broader audiences who don't have healthcare backgrounds.

Cezarina Dinu · Answer

Lately, I've been working on simplifying complex product stories without losing their edge. B2B SaaS poses a real challenge because most marketers end up working very closely with the product team and become oversaturated with features. The real skill is knowing which of those features actually need to be in front of the customer. Then, you distill all that into sharp, benefit-driven content that still feels human and easy to follow.
My learning process is based on structured reading and hands-on editing. These are my current go-to resources:
1. "The Elements of Style" by Strunk and White—in case I forget less really is more.
2. Wynter's B2B message testing reports—they're great for seeing in real time how audiences react to phrasing that feels "clear" to marketers but confusing to buyers.
At TextMagic, we've been applying this focus through a mix of message testing and smaller copy experiments: short-form LinkedIn ads, landing page headline tests, and microcopy updates. It's not just about writing less to make it more "digestible" for users on the go. Instead, you need to make sure every word earns its place while staying true to your tone.
One strategy that's helped: forcing myself to write the core message of any piece in one sentence before expanding it. If it doesn't fit in a single, clear sentence, chances are it won't stick with the reader either.
The thing is, clear doesn't mean dull. You're writing for people skimming between calls, so your content has to hit even when attention is at 50%.

Chris Raulf · Answer

Here's what I'm working on improving:- AI prompt engineering for competitive content analysis
Why this matters to me:After nearly 30 years in SEO, I discovered my human brain was only catching about 20% of the ranking patterns that actually matter. Building BSM Copilot opened my eyes to how much I was missing.
My weekly practice routine:
1. Pick one high-competition keyword
2. Analyze top 10 results manually first
3. Run the same analysis through our AI system
4. Compare what I missed vs. what AI found
5. Test insights on real client projects
Recent "aha" moment:Studying "local SEO pricing" results — I spotted obvious elements like pricing tables. AI found that ALL top performers had testimonials within 500 words of pricing information, plus FAQ sections with exactly 7-12 questions. I had completely missed that pattern.
Resources actually moving the needle:
- Google's Search Quality Rater Guidelines (monthly re-reads)- SE Ranking's AI Overview tracking tool- Real client websites for testing theories
The skill shift:Learning to ask better strategic questions instead of just getting tactical answers. AI handles research depth — I focus on extracting actionable insights.
Measurable progress:Our Local SEO Guide hit page one in 2 weeks using AI-identified content gaps that would've taken me months to spot manually.
The bigger picture:Future SEO success = thinking like a human + researching like a machine.

Brandy Morton · Answer

Lately, I've been focused on sharpening my ability to design narratives that span entire demand generation campaigns, not just individual content assets.
In B2B, it's easy to treat each piece of content as a standalone deliverable. However, what really moves the needle—especially in longer sales cycles—is a cohesive story that unfolds across channels and touchpoints. I'm working on improving my skills in building this kind of content flow, where every piece deepens the relationship and intentionally guides the buyer forward.
To grow in this area, I've been studying strong Account-Based Marketing (ABM) plays, dissecting nurture sequences, and drawing inspiration from serialized brand storytelling.
The most significant change in my process has been planning the content journey first, before writing a single word. When the path is clear, the execution becomes more aligned—and performance improves.

Dewi Saklina · Answer

One content marketing skill I'm actively working on is adapting my video strategy to align with Google's latest search updates, particularly how AI Overviews and video-rich results are impacting visibility.
With the rollout of AI Overviews (formerly Search Generative Experience), we're seeing more direct answers in search, and videos are being pulled into these summaries more often.
I've been closely following updates on how Google selects videos for AI Overviews and featured snippets. I'm learning how to structure content (clear titles, concise explanations, accurate timestamps) so that our videos are more likely to be quoted or embedded in AI-generated answers.
I'm also revisiting how we use schema markup, particularly VideoObject and Clip markup, to help Google identify key moments within our videos. Tools like Search Console, Rich Results Test, and schema validators are now part of my regular workflow.

Dennis Shirshikov · Answer

What is a specific content marketing skill you are currently working on improving? Describe what you're learning, and any resources or strategies that you're finding helpful.
To do this, I'm specializing in interactive content experiences: ROI calculators, diagnostic quizzes, dynamic infographics, and similar content experiences that engage users far more than bland static blog posts. This skill is a combination of data analysis, UX design, and copywriting, which is why I've been learning this in three phases:
Structured course work: I'm currently doing CXL's Advanced Content Experience mini-degree, which combines the theoretical concepts with practicums on interactive formats.
Reverse engineer: I take apart high-performing widgets from platforms such as Outgrow and Ion Interactive to break down their logic flows, branching logic, and micro-copy choices to get to the heart of what makes the user complete.
Experience Sprints: Every fortnight, my team prototypes one new interactive module on a low-traffic landing page, then drills into micro-metrics, time on module, drop-off points, lead conversions, and iterates.
Though a bit of a non-standard one: I also use GitHub to blog about custom data visualizations, writing novel JavaScript without any off-the-shelf libraries, while also coding for what I'd call the 'marketing intuition,' which is to say I'd like to make sure our content not just purdy but technically sound.

Bowen He · Answer

The content marketing skill I'm laser-focused on leveling up right now is empathy mapping through direct customer immersion—specifically, learning to hear the unspoken frustrations and emotional triggers in prospects' language before they become customers. Too often, we rely on post-purchase surveys or personas, missing the raw tension in the discovery phase.
My process:
1. Pain point interviews: I block 2 hours weekly to interview prospects who chose competitors or abandoned carts, asking: "What almost stopped you from searching for this solution?" (not "Why didn't you buy?").
2. Reddit as a live lab: I track "rant threads" in niche subreddits (e.g., r/smallbusiness or r/marketing), screenshotting visceral phrases like "I waste hours on __" or "All tools feel like __"—then build content around those exact pain points.
3. Resource blend: I pair practical tools like Wynter (for message testing) with psychology books ("The Mom Test" for interviewing) and Glassdoor reviews targeting competitors' employees to expose client frustrations.
4. Game-changer tactic: I create "anti-case studies"—documents where we failed to solve a problem unless we addressed the emotional hurdle first (e.g., "Why our 'logical' SaaS demo flopped until we added a 1-minute 'fix your spreadsheet hell' button").
Impact: One campaign using rant-thread insights saw a 90% lift in demo requests because the headline screamed "Stop pasting reports into PowerPoint like a maniac"—a phrase ripped directly from Reddit. It forced me to stop creating content for our audience and start creating it from them.

Josh Ritchie · Answer

After many years of publishing as an agency, we're breaking down the walls and putting our founders' voices directly out there via thought leadership on LinkedIn and X. This means developing the muscle and confidence to be more transparent and open more frequently. So far, the conversations we've prompted and the feedback we're receiving have given us more direct insight into our audience's challenges and perspectives. This has helped us connect with individuals who could be good candidates for our services, guests on our podcast, or both.

Matias Rodsevich · Answer

The content marketing skill I'm actively working on right now is data analytics and performance tracking. Creating good content is one thing, but knowing what's actually working, and why, is what really helps you grow. It's not only counting page views or likes anymore. I'm learning how to dig deeper into tools like Google Analytics, set up conversion tracking, and connect content directly to results like leads or sales.
To improve, I'm combining online courses with hands-on practice. I've been going through training on Coursera and HubSpot Academy, and I've set up UTM tracking and weekly content reviews to spot what's driving real results. I also check out resources from Content Marketing Institute and follow people in content-focused communities to stay sharp.

Patrick Carver · Answer

Currently, I'm focused on improving storytelling within our content. I'm not interested in the fluffy kind, but rather story-driven frameworks that hook readers and convert. I've been delving into Donald Miller's StoryBrand model and analyzing how brands like Gymshark and Duolingo weave narratives into even the smallest content pieces. My process involves reverse-engineering high-performing content, reworking old blog posts using story-first introductions, and testing them live with our law firm clients.

Divya Ghughatyal · Answer

One content marketing skill I'm actively working on improving is writing high-converting copy for landing pages and email campaigns. While I've always been comfortable with creative content, I've realized that strategic, conversion-focused writing requires a different mindset—one that blends psychology, clarity, and structure.
To improve this, I've been studying frameworks like AIDA (Attention, Interest, Desire, Action) and PAS (Problem, Agitate, Solution), which help guide the flow of persuasive copy. I've also been closely analyzing successful brands' landing pages and emails to understand how they use storytelling, urgency, and calls-to-action effectively.
My learning process involves a mix of hands-on practice and structured learning. I've found resources like Copyhackers, HubSpot's content marketing blogs, and Alex Cattoni's YouTube channel particularly helpful. I also run A/B tests on subject lines, CTA placements, and copy length to see what actually resonates with the target audience, which helps turn theory into actionable insights.
One strategy that's helped a lot is creating swipe files of good copy I come across—be it from newsletters, social ads, or product pages—and reviewing them regularly to train my eye. Improving this skill is helping me create content that not only informs but also drives measurable action, which is key to content marketing success.

Andrea Cousens · Answer

As AI becomes a core tool in every content marketer's stack, one skill has quietly become make-or-break: prompt engineering, the art of crafting effective inputs that guide AI tools to produce high-quality, strategic, and on-brand content.
Marketers don't need to become developers, but they do need to become better "creative directors" for AI tools to produce the most useful output. Poor prompts yield content that is generic and low-impact, while strong prompts unlock high-performing assets at scale - across mediums like blogs, emails, visuals, and video content.
In practice, good prompt engineering is essentially an evolved creative brief that includes key elements like the audience, tone, format, goals, and even competitive positioning. For example, instead of saying, "Write a blog about plumbing tips," a smarter prompt might be:"Write a 700-word blog targeted at homeowners aged 35-55 about five unexpected plumbing issues that lead to costly repairs. Use a friendly, trustworthy tone. Include a bulleted list and a CTA."
To develop this skill, marketers should treat prompts like briefs. They should reverse-engineer great content and can even ask AI what type of prompt will produce a high-performing post. They can even consider building templates as reusable frameworks for common formats like social copy, emails, or thought leadership.
Most AI tools now also include the option for voice prompts. Pairing written and voice prompts can help feed AI your brand's tone and examples to ensure consistency and quality.
As a marketer, using AI correctly is not just a tactical shift. It's an opportunity to think more strategically. In a world where everyone has access to the same tools, the real differentiator is how you use them.

Brooke Colglazier · Answer

One content marketing skill I'm actively working on improving is SEO-focused content structuring, especially for long-form blog posts and product pages. Writing helpful content is one thing, but structuring it in a way that both search engines and readers find valuable is where I'm focusing right now.
I've been studying relevance engineering and how to frame introductions, H1s, and conclusions to better align with search intent. My process involves analyzing top-ranking competitor content, utilizing tools like Clearscope and Ahrefs to assess keyword relevance, and experimenting with structured formatting (such as FAQs, tables, and comparison sections) to enhance readability and improve SERP performance.
I also track Google's SEO updates through sources like Search Engine Journal, Backlinko, and webinars from SaaS companies like HubSpot. One strategy I've found helpful is treating each blog post like a product page, leading with value, keeping headlines clear, and removing fluff that slows readers down.
It's a work in progress, but this shift in focus has already helped improve engagement and rankings for recent content projects.

Nikolay Petrov · Answer

The content marketing skill I'm actively improving is "visual troubleshooting" - creating video content that actually helps people solve problems instead of just showcasing products.
I realized this was a weak spot when analyzing our content performance. Our written guides had great engagement, but video content was underperforming dramatically. People would watch 30 seconds and leave, even though the information was solid. The problem wasn't the technical expertise - it was my presentation approach.
My learning process has been deliberately systematic. I'm studying how repair channels like iFixit and Louis Rossmann structure their videos, but also analyzing cooking channels like Bon Appétit because they excel at making complex processes feel manageable. The key insight: successful instructional videos show the problem from the viewer's perspective, not the expert's.
I've been practicing with what I call "over-the-shoulder filming" - positioning cameras to show exactly what the customer sees when they're behind their TV or looking at their soundbar connections. Previously, I was filming from optimal angles that looked professional but didn't match how people actually approach these problems.
The specific resource that's been most helpful is actually TikTok's creative workshop materials. Their guidelines for capturing attention in the first 3 seconds have completely changed how I structure troubleshooting videos. I now start with the successful outcome ("Here's your TV working perfectly") before showing the problem-solving process.
Concrete result: our latest video series has 60% higher retention rates because viewers can immediately visualize success before committing to the full troubleshooting process.
The breakthrough insight: great instructional content shows the destination before explaining the journey.

Vikrant Bhalodia · Answer

One content marketing skill we are actively improving is how we structure long-form content for technical topics.
We work with subjects like backend systems or architecture decisions, which do not always feel relatable at first glance. So instead of just writing to explain, we structure the content to guide the reader step by step, starting with a real-world challenge and moving into clear takeaways.
To do this better, we have been reviewing heatmaps to see where readers drop off. That helps us shorten or reframe sections that aren't connecting.
We've also simplified our writing process. Every article starts with one core question a potential client might ask. Then we shape the piece around answering that, without jargon or fluff.
We're not trying to impress. We're trying to make it clear, useful, and easy to finish reading.
This shift in focus from explaining more to explaining better has made our content more relevant and easier to trust.

19 Top Content Marketing Skills & Resources: Industry Marketers Speak

19 Top Content Marketing Skills & Resources: Industry Marketers Speak

Master Narrative Stacking for Engaging Content

Optimize Content for AI-Driven Search

Strategically Repurpose Content Across Platforms

Craft Impactful Short-Form Video Stories

Enhance Healthcare Video Storytelling Skills

Simplify Complex B2B Product Stories

Leverage AI for Competitive Content Analysis

Design Cohesive Demand Generation Narratives

Adapt Video Strategy for AI Search

Create Interactive Content Experiences

Develop Empathy Mapping Through Customer Immersion

Amplify Founders' Voices via Thought Leadership

Master Data Analytics for Content Performance

Implement Story-Driven Frameworks for Conversion

Craft High-Converting Copy for Landing Pages

Refine Prompt Engineering for AI Content

Structure SEO-Focused Content for Better Rankings

Create Effective Visual Troubleshooting Content

Improve Long-Form Technical Content Structure