4 Problems With Content Marketing Blogs and Articles

Content marketing is growing fast. About 72% of marketers say it helps educate their audience, and 63% see it boosting loyalty, according to the Content Marketing Institute.

That’s a strong endorsement. But what’s the catch? Content marketing isn’t without challenges.

At Zoe Marketing & Communications, we’ve specialized in written content marketing since 2020, particularly sponsored articles. We understand the hurdles.

Here, we’ll break down four common content marketing problems. By the end, you’ll have a clearer sense of whether it’s a fit, whether to tackle it solo or whether agency support makes sense.

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4 common issues with content markteting

1. It’s not designed for conversions

Publishing content — on your site or with a media partner — won’t immediately drive sales.

• Content marketing is about trust, not instant sales. Readers recognize your brand and recall your expertise when they’re ready to buy.
• Google traction takes time. Over time, content ranks better in search results and attracts leads, if you’re maintaining good SEO (seach engine optimization).
• For a boost, it takes promotion. Pair with tactics like social media ads, email marketing and SEM (search engine marketing).

Bottom line

Expect long-term gains over 3-12 months, not instant results.

2. It’s not about promoting yourself

Good content marketing isn’t a sales pitch or self-promotion. It’s about answering real questions your audience cares about.

• If your content is all about you, people will lose interest fast.
• A strong piece is 80% education, 20% (or less) about your business.
• You build trust by offering valuable information — not pushing a sale.

Bottom line

If self-promotion is your goal, content marketing isn’t the right tool.

3. It requires quality writing

You don’t need to be a journalist, but good content writing must be clear, engaging and Google-friendly.

Google favors content that meets EEAT (experience, expertise, authoritativeness and trust) standards:

• Experience: You share firsthand industry knowledge.
• Expertise: You have the credentials to speak on the topic.
• Authoritativeness: You’re recognized as a reliable source.
• Trust: Your content is accurate, safe and useful.

Aim for content in the 300-600-word range — focused, direct and answering real questions with quality over quantity.

Bottom line

Well-written, trustworthy content is key to getting noticed.

4. It’s time-consuming to create

Creating quality content takes ongoing effort. Writing is just one part of it. You also need to:

• Brainstorm topics and research keywords
• Interview experts or gather insights
• Maintain a production schedule
• Select images (stock, supplied, etc.)
• Write and edit consistently
• Publish and promote through email, social media and ads

To see results, you need to publish weekly at minimum — ideally three times a week.

Bottom line

If you don’t have a plan to sustain it, content marketing won’t pay off.

Next steps for content marketing

Content marketing can drive trust, loyalty and long-term leads — but it’s a major commitment. This blog covered four key challenges, from slow conversions to the demand for quality writing and time.

If you’re ready for the challenge but don’t want to go it alone, talk to us. Zoe Marketing & Communications specializes in content marketing and can help.

Still weighing your options? Learn more:

• What sponsored content articles and if they’re right for you
• The benefits of sponsored content articles in marketing