Content marketing involves the creation and sharing of media and publishing content in order to acquire and retain customers. This information can be presented in a variety of formats, including news, whitepapers, e-books, photos etc. It is hard, time consuming and expensive. Angela Hausman (marketing professor at Howard University) in her article in business2community.com, discussed about the steps to create a successful content marketing plan. They are:

• Start with goals.
• Audit existing content and determine where the holes are.
• Develop your business.
• Target customers.
• The Sales funnel.
• Understand your purpose.
• Develop an editorial calendar.
• Develop content.
• Promote your content.
• Measure.
• Optimize.
• Rinse, repeat.

To know more about the steps required for creating a successful content marketing plan, please follow the link: http://www.business2community.com/content-marketing/12-steps-how-to-build-a-successful-content-marketing-plan-01 

Nowadays with the wide use of "SMART" objects , the task of the marketing departments is to communicate this information to the consumers so that they not only understand but adopt. The success of marketing and incorporation of the Internet Of Things depends on how the information is disseminated which helps the consumers understand the ins and outs of the technology and its use.  A sudden change is more preferred than a gradual change, especially where technology is concerned. Social Media incorporates some of these technologies like smart vending machines, video media advertising, etc. that paves the way for the future.  In addition to social media messaging, the following methods are used to educate consumers  :  webliners, videos, online presentations, white papers. Read more at   http://www.socialmediatoday.com/technology-data/elizabethvictor/2015-05-28/internet-things-and-implications-social-and-branding

Social media has become an integral part of any business. It allows a business to promote and market its own brand and is a key element in assisting consumers in their decision making process. Social media pages increase recognition and companies can advertise to potential customers and clients by posting relevant content.  It was found that 71% of all internet users are now active on social media sites.  Companies nowadays are developing content marketing strategies, sharing blogs, infographics, and whitepapers. Customers and clients also interact directly with businesses via social media. It helps businesses to build customer loyalty and strengthen their brand image. Katie Alyward and Chloe Hutchinson-Brown (Northstar Research Partners) in their article link writes about the ways to track the reputation of any business and performance on social media sites:  http://digitalmarketingmagazine.co.uk/social-media-marketing/the-importance-of-social-media-within-a-business/1274