Computer says no: why it's a bad idea to use ChatGPT as an IT copywriter
First, let's clear up a misunderstanding: ChatGPT is not an IT copywriter. ChatGPT is IT sitting in a copywriter's chair. But those who really want to make an impact know that content marketing for the IT industry does not benefit from automatically generated content, but from a specialist IT copywriter. Someone who not only understands ones and zeros, but can also put developments in a broader perspective. In this article, we tell you how to create effective content marketing for the IT industry.
Platforms for IT content
The popularity of platforms like Tweakers (4 million unique visitors and 100 million page views per month) indicates that there is a great need for valuable content about IT and IT-related issues. This is not surprising either, considering that the ICT sector is still growing. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS), the ICT sector consists of 91,000 thousand companies. That's 3,500 more companies than the year before.
Large audience for IT copywriter
An IT copywriter potentially has a large audience. In 2022, there were 615,000 IT employees working in the Netherlands. There are more than 20,000 vacancies for IT professionals. There is a need for high-quality content for this target group. Writing it requires specialist knowledge of the subject matter. An IT copywriter understands what an IT person does and is familiar with the terminology used. They are also able to interpret technological developments and make predictions based on them. Of course, it is also important for a good technical writer to have a large network from which to draw specialist knowledge.
Why hiring a commercial copywriter for IT is smart
Many IT companies find it difficult to explain in understandable language what they do and why they do it. A commercial copywriter specialises in translating complicated material. That translation is important to tap into target groups that have little understanding of ICT. By engaging an external copywriter, you are opting for a fresh perspective on ICT. A good copywriter picks up stories from your company and puts them on paper in a comprehensible way.
Broad spectrum
ICT is a broad topic. Many writers therefore choose to specialise. For example, they write only about cybersecurity, or choose to specialise in hardware. Writing about ICT means you have to be able to speak at a level with the companies you will be working for. In-depth knowledge of ICT is not a must, but it is definitely a plus. Still, it is important to keep some distance from the subject as well. There is also a great need for IT copywriters who are able to explain complex subjects in a simple manner. These include, for example, companies that devise and implement applications for education. Or ICT companies that like to hire an IT copywriter for their labour market communication.
Content strategy for IT copywriters
A good IT copywriter uses a content strategy. Together with the client, the target group to be reached is determined, in which ways and with which topics this target group can be reached. We look at which platforms are most suitable and what the desired tone of voice is. Sometimes a strategy has already been determined by the client, sometimes it still has to be done. In the latter case, a content marketing strategy session is indispensable.
Need help with your content marketing strategy?
Now that you know why a good content marketing strategy is important in the IT industry, you might want to get started. We can help! Leave your details here or contact Dennis Mensink, on +31 (0)6 45 61 42 26 or dennis@mediatic.eu/en.
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