The first step toward effective content marketing is to actually make a plan. It's one thing to discuss big ideas, but until you have them right there in front of you – it's unlikely results will live up to your expectations.

Click on the image below to view our full size sample Content Marketing Plan and read our tips to help you get started.

• New Year welcome email
• Promotion: Follow social media channels
• eNewsletter: Client testimonial
• eNewsletter: Company case study
• eNewsletter: How-to application guide
• Promotion: End of Financial Year special
• eNewsletter: Thought leader Q&A
• eNewsletter: Client case study
• Promotion: New product release
• eNewsletter: Top 10 industry tips
• Promotion: End of Year special
• Season's Greetings email
• Direct mail: Catalogue and special offer
• Send media release to industry websites and publications

The key to success is to keep to the plan. Customers notice an organised and consistent approach and will look up to your company in that light.

Another idea to get the whole team behind your content plan is to print it out and have it put up around the office. This will create discussion and buzz around the plan.

Good luck for your 2015 content planning!