So, you've already published your amazing content, but you realize you need a collaborator's expertise to take it to the next level. Don't worry, it's not too late! While adding a collaborator before posting is ideal, there are smart solutions to get this done after the fact. This guide provides the most effective strategies to tackle this common content creation challenge.
Understanding the Challenges of Post-Publication Collaboration
Adding a collaborator after posting presents unique hurdles:
- Maintaining Consistency: Ensuring the added collaborator's contributions align seamlessly with the existing content's tone and style.
- Technical Hurdles: Different platforms have varying levels of collaboration features post-publication.
- Credit and Attribution: Giving proper credit to the original author and the new collaborator is crucial.
- SEO Impact: Understanding how adding a collaborator affects your existing Search Engine Optimization (SEO).
Smart Solutions: Adding a Collaborator Post-Publication
Here are the smartest ways to bring a collaborator on board after your content is live:
1. The "Co-Authorship Update" Approach
- How it works: Create a substantial update to your existing post. This update should incorporate the new collaborator's input significantly enough to warrant co-authorship. Promote this update as a valuable enhancement to the original piece.
- Advantages: Clearly establishes co-authorship, enhances content value, offers an SEO boost through updated content.
- Disadvantages: Requires a substantial contribution from the new collaborator.
2. The "Guest Post" Strategy
- How it works: Treat the collaborator's contribution as a guest post that directly relates to or expands upon your original content. Link the guest post to your original piece and vice versa.
- Advantages: Flexible, suitable for smaller contributions, easier to manage technically.
- Disadvantages: Less seamless integration than the co-authorship approach, may require more promotional effort.
3. The "Joint Social Media Campaign" Method
- How it works: Instead of modifying the original post, launch a joint social media campaign with your collaborator to promote the existing content. Both of you share it on your channels, amplifying the reach and engagement.
- Advantages: Simple to implement, cost-effective, promotes collaborative effort.
- Disadvantages: Doesn't directly change the original post; solely focuses on increased promotion and visibility.
4. The "Comment Section Collaboration" Technique
- How it works: Use the comment section as a space for engaging with the collaborator and your audience. The collaborator can offer insights, answer questions, and even contribute additional perspectives within the comments.
- Advantages: Easy, organic, encourages community building.
- Disadvantages: Less structured than other approaches, limited in the amount of new content it can add to the original piece.
SEO Considerations When Adding Collaborators Post-Publication
- Update Meta Descriptions and Titles: Reflect the collaboration in your meta descriptions and title tags (if adding a significant update).
- Internal Linking: Link the original and new content (collaborative pieces) together to create a cohesive content cluster.
- Schema Markup: Use schema markup to correctly display authorship information for both the original author and the new collaborator.
- Monitor Rankings: Keep a close eye on your search engine rankings to track the impact of the collaboration.
Choosing the Right Approach
The best approach depends on the nature of your content, the collaborator's contribution, and your overall goals. Consider:
- Scope of Contribution: Is it a minor addition or a significant overhaul?
- Platform Capabilities: Does your publishing platform readily support post-publication collaborations?
- Time and Resources: How much time and effort can you invest in this process?
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the smartest solution to add a collaborator after posting, enhancing your content and boosting your online presence. Remember, effective collaboration is key to content success, regardless of when it happens!
