Teachers as Content Creators. Why?

Me? A content developer? A social media marketer?

Perhaps you have never thought of yourself as a “content developer”, “influencer”, or “marketer”. These words seem relegated to larger-than-life personalities with millions of followers on social media. What do they have to do with education?

If you are a teacher, you are already a content developer. You show up daily, artfully and skillfully creating and delivering learning experiences for your students. You are an influencer, because even if your students do not always appear inspired, your relationship molds and shapes their habits and thinking for a lifetime.

Are you a marketer, though? If you hold to the traditional definition of marketing, the one that coerces. deceives, and creates false demand through insecurity, then no. There should be little overlap between the soulless marketing of our industrial complex with the world of education. Our students do not exist to be hustled and gimmicked into learning.

There is, however, a movement toward a different kind of marketing, one that Seth Godin defines as “the generous act of helping others become who they seek to become.” There are many on social media who push, gimmick and scam their way to success. But an increasing number of content developers are beating the drum of generosity focused on radically serving and delighting a particular audience.

As an educator in 2022, this matters. It is not enough to be a passive user of technology. More educators are choosing an engaged route by creating content and making it available to their students and to wider audiences.

Why should you consider becoming an educational content creator?

Because:

1. It is energizing to serve an audience that is drawn to your teaching style.

2. You enter the world of creators influencing your students, increasing your voice and impact

3. You learn how to attract an audience solely through the quality of your message.

4. You learn to hone your message for peak clarity and effectiveness.

5. You lay the groundwork for an income stream to enable your autonomy, freedom, and growth.

6. You radically increase your professional networks.

7. You grow a tribe, learn to serve their needs, and make a difference.

8. You grow personally as you learn to set aside fear and doubt to show up for your audience.