If you’re starting your service-based business, one question that might be on your mind is: “Which type of long-form content should I use?”

There are three main types of long-form content:

1. Written Content (like blogs)
2. Audio Content (like podcasts)
3. Video Content (like YouTube videos or vlogs)

Choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here’s a simple, five-step guide to help you pick the best option that fits your personality, business, and lifestyle. Let’s dive in!

Step 1: Observe Your Patterns

Think about the kind of content you naturally consume. What excites you? What do you find yourself drawn to the most?

For me, I realized I was a podcast junkie! I was always listening to podcasts while driving, running errands, or working out. That’s when I had my “aha!” moment—I should start a podcast. It came naturally to me.

So, ask yourself:

• Do you love reading blog posts and writing down your thoughts? Then blogging might be for you.
• Do you enjoy listening to podcasts on the go? Maybe a podcast is your thing.
• Are you always watching YouTube tutorials and love being on camera? Video might be your best bet.

Your content creation should align with what already feels natural to you.

Step 2: Observe Your Personality

Your personality plays a big role in choosing your long-form content. Are you camera shy? Do you love speaking but hate writing? Or are you someone who enjoys structuring your thoughts into well-written blog posts?

Here’s a quick guide:

• Introverts who prefer to work behind the scenes might enjoy blogging.
• Talkative and expressive personalities who love to chat might find podcasting easier.
• Outgoing, energetic personalities who love to be in front of a camera might thrive on video content.

Personally, I’m more introverted, so podcasting felt natural for me—I could just talk without worrying about being on camera.

Step 3: Observe Your Service and Industry

Different industries lend themselves better to different types of content. Let’s look at a few examples:

• Coaching businesses work well with podcasts and blogs because you’re sharing knowledge.
• Hair stylists, makeup artists, and fitness trainers benefit from video content since their work is visual.
• Writers, marketers, and educators do well with blogging because writing is their expertise.

Think about how your audience prefers to consume content in your industry. If they need to see the results (like hairstyles or fitness routines), video is best. If they’re looking for detailed written advice, blogging may be the way to go.

Step 4: Count the Cost

Each type of content comes with its own costs. Let’s break it down:

• Blogging is the least expensive. All you need is a laptop and a website.
• Podcasting requires a microphone and podcast hosting, which adds some cost.
• Video content is the most expensive because you’ll need a camera, lighting, and editing software.

If you’re on a tight budget, blogging may be the best place to start. If you have some money to invest and love speaking, a podcast is a great option. If you’re ready to go all in, video content can be an amazing way to build your brand.

Step 5: Make a Choice and Commit

Now that you’ve observed your patterns, personality, industry, and budget, it’s time to make a decision. Pick ONE long-form content type to start with.

Starting with all three (blog, podcast, and video) can be overwhelming. Instead, focus on one, master it, and then later, you can repurpose your content across different platforms.

For example, if you start a podcast, you can repurpose it into a blog by transcribing the episodes. If you start a vlog, you can extract the audio and turn it into a podcast. But first, get consistent with one type before repurposing.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right long-form content for your business doesn’t have to be complicated. Follow these five steps:

1. Observe your content consumption patterns—What do you enjoy?
2. Understand your personality—What fits your strengths?
3. Analyze your industry—What works best for your niche?
4. Count the cost—What can you afford to maintain consistently?
5. Make a choice and commit—Pick one and stick with it!

If you follow these steps, you’ll find the perfect content type that aligns with you and helps grow your business.

Now tell me—what type of long-form content are you leaning toward? Let me know in the comments!

Happy content creating! 😊