Your content marketing plan does not have to be complicated. In fact, it likely needs more clarity. One of the best methods of reaching your target audience with high-impact messaging is by using the 3-3-3 Rule. The 3-3-3 Rule is based on how users consume information and remember simple ideas. All you need is:
- Three Audiences — three core segments that your brand wants to target.
- Three Platforms — three channels to share your brand where your audience is active.
- Three Messages — three clear, repeatable key ideas that you want your audience to remember.
In short, the 3-3-3 Rule is what to say, who to say it to, and where to say it. This framework streamlines your core message so it is consistent and memorable.
What are the Benefits of the 3-3-3 Rule?
Simple and Memorable
A simplified plan improves brand recall, meaning your audience is more likely to remember your messaging the moment they need it.
Efficient and Manageable
Knowing what to create, where to publish, and why means marketing your organization becomes both manageable and measurable.
Focus and Strength
An organized strategy for your marketing efforts strengthens your brand positioning across all platforms.
How Do I Use the 3-3-3 Rule
Identify three audience segments
Instead of marketing to everyone, focus on who matters most to your brand. After all, someone who lives in a tropical climate has no need for snow boots. To find who is already interacting with your brand, start by looking at your current analytics. These make up your existing customers, potential customers, and decision makers. Note any commonalities between them, and then sort them into your primary, secondary, and tertiary audiences.
Important items to know when determining your audience:
- Demographics
- Geographic location
- Common interests
- Stage of the buyer’s journey
Establish three marketing platforms
Once you identify who to market to, it’s time to find where your audience usually interacts. The trick is finding the platforms they already like—for instance, do they prefer direct messages on social media or SMS/text? Focus your marketing efforts on the platform your audience uses the most.
Places you can find your audience:
- Social Media
- Text/SMS/direct messages
- Radio
- Television
- Billboards
- Direct Mail
- Print Media
- Digital Ads
Compose three primary messages
All successful marketing campaigns have a clear and compelling message, something that’s both memorable and repeatable. Narrow your overall message to three key takeaways that you want your audience to associate with your brand. It’s best to keep these messages short, clear, and customer focused.
Consider the following when crafting your message:
- Brand mission
- Organization values
- Customer benefits
- Brand promises
Marketing your brand can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. If you want help focusing your marketing efforts, Greenleaf Media is here for you. Reach out to Greenleaf Media in 3, 2, 1 … to make your brand memorable.