To say that marketing content is abundant would be a serious understatement. Every day, marketing professionals from every industry are sharing their knowledge on topics ranging from the meaning of different colors in direct mail to the ways that artificial intelligence is changing the marketing game – and everything in between.

So what does this have to do with this blog post?

With the sheer volume at which marketing content is produced, we understand that it can be a little overwhelming trying to keep up. That’s why we’ve decided to do a weekly round-up of some of our favorite articles from around the web.

Every Friday, we’ll share a brief rundown of the articles we found particularly interesting or helpful that week. To avoid information overload, we’ll limit it to 3-5 articles each week, on topics including marketing, advertising, public relations, general business, and wellness. We’re open to your suggestions, too! Let us know on Facebook or Twitter if you come across an article you think others should know about.

Here are some of our favorite headlines from this week:
 

Five big things marketers actually have to start doing in 2017

The takeaway: Instead of looking for the ‘next big thing’ in marketing, look at the platforms you’re already using and figure out if/how you can get more results from them. The best place to start is by heeding author Blaise Lucey’s first tip: “Use data for something other than monthly reports.” By starting with data, you can find out how your audience is interacting with your business online and otherwise. Do they engage with your social media and video content? Are your print pieces garnering a response?

Before you devote time to creating a campaign using Snapchat Spectacles, look at your existing marketing investments. Can you do anything differently to get a better ROI?

WWTT? 3 Epic Social Media Fails

The takeaway: As Melissa Ward says in the video, “Think before you tweet.” The point of social media marketing is to connect brands with audiences in real and authentic ways. When a brand tries to force their way into the spotlight after an event or tragedy, it is most definitely NOT authentic. Unless there is a direct connection between your brand and the person/people involved in a big event, it’s best to stay silent. A good rule of thumb: Don’t tweet for the sake of tweeting.

Research: Cracking a Joke at Work Can Make You Seem More Competent

The takeaway: Humor is an important part of building relationships with others – colleagues, clients, and prospects alike. Be smart about the kind of humor you use, though, and make sure your jokes won’t hurt or offend others. And if you MUST tell cheesy jokes, go ahead. ?

What articles did you find particularly interesting or relevant? Let us know in the comments below, or on Facebook or Twitter!