It feels like there are so many ulterior motives in the world we live in and online is no exception. I want to enjoy certain content online but to access the experience I’m forced to give personal information that does not seem in line with what I want to get out of it – a laugh, some new information, a new perspective.
Don’t people create content just because they’re inspired anymore? Or does everything come with an ulterior motive?
Is there no such thing as free (digital) content? Discuss
I guess I can answer this for my business, from a content point of view. I started writing this blog three years ago when I decided I wanted to start my own business. The blog was about credibility. I thought, if I’m going to call myself a digital expert, then I need to have an online profile and something for people to read and establish for themselves whether or not I knew what I was talking about. But then it became something I loved. It drove me to explore the web and become inspired by what other people are thinking and saying and doing. I write now because I love it and I want to share it.
The blog is still about credibility and it probably contributes to my client conversions, but I choose to put information out into the world to add to the conversation, to be involved and to contribute. I like to think I’m helping people. The only difference between me and some others, is that I give the content away for free. I don’t hide it behind a pay wall or force you to give me your name and email address and phone number to read the information. I do keep some of the best stuff for my clients and subscribers.
So I guess I am guilty too. Damn it. That wasn’t the conclusion I wanted to come to at the end of this internal dialogue.