10 Lesser-known Places to Find Quality Content

Ugh. Content is the bane of our existence these days as marketers, isn’t it? Even if you’re not officially a marketer or have a marketing department, to get found on Google you’re expected to post high-quality content.
But here’s the key to maintaining your sanity—it doesn’t have to be content you create every time. There is a lot of valuable content out there that you can curate and share with your audience. The difficulty is in sorting through the “slush pile” that is social media. To make it easier on you, here are 10 sources of consistent quality content:
 

1.      The Chamber of Commerce

This one is incredibly simple. Chambers share a lot of great content on a variety of topics from new features on social media to local events, humorous memes to pieces on the benefits of shopping local. They share member posts and may even spotlight your business one day. That would be a great share.
 

2.      The Local CVB

Your convention and visitor’s bureau shares an amazing amount of beautiful pictures of the area, things to do, and ways to enjoy your town. Keep an eye out for things your audience will respond to. Remember people love to be entertained and this site is a good source for that.
 
 

3.      Medium

Medium is a blogging site that is a mixture of big brands and individuals. The topics run the gamut so it’s an easy place to find something suitable for your audience, no matter what they like. Each article includes a designation of how long a read it is for those who decide what they’re reading by length. But be warned. It can be a little like falling down the rabbit hole. Lots to see.
 

4.      Pinterest

Content shares aren’t all about articles. Pinterest is a wonderful place to find awesome image quotes. But if you got lost on Medium, remember Pinterest can suck away half of your afternoon.
 

5.      Your Association

Associations are fantastic sources of content. Find one that suits your audience and check it out periodically for excellent quality content. Remember, you needn’t share just their articles. You can use pull quotes from the articles as well. Always attribute the sources. Take a look at the list on SmartBriefs too.
 

6.      List of Holidays

You’ve seen the National Day of Honey Bees and other such things. Consult the list of holidays and other celebrations and choose the ones that fit your ideal customer demographic. They don’t have to do anything with your business. You could sell shoes, but if you think your demographic likes ice cream, share National Hot Fudge Sundae day.
 

7.      Next Draft

Next Draft compiles very interesting news and not (just) the kind that will make you pound your head against the desk. There’s current events but also more obscure information that can be fun to pass along to your audience. You can sign up for the news to be delivered to your email box.
 

8.      Buzzfeed

Click bait and not anything that will change your life. But just like junk food, the occasional splurge is enjoyable.
 

9.      Zen Habits

If you’re looking for something, well…a little more Zen, try the daily posts here. This content would be ideal for wellness businesses or just someone who wants to see their audience take time for themselves.
 

10. Twitter Lists

Whether you create your own of top customers or follow one within your industry, Twitter lists are an efficient way to see “designated” experts and what they share quickly and without searching for them. Here’s one of social media thought leaders as curated by the good folks at Buffer.
 
No matter what your business, your audience is looking to be entertained, inspired, and educated. When looking for good content keep those needs in mind. Think of your demographic and if that piece will interest them. Never take content off another site and share it as your own. If you love it enough to want to use it as a blog post, write your own commentary or lead-in and then link to their site. Remember, sharing is caring but stealing is a felony. Or at least in this case—plagiarism.