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Marketing & Communications

Content Strategist

Plans what content an organization creates and why, across channels.

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Content last reviewed: August 2026

A content strategist decides what content (articles, videos, emails, social posts) an organization should create, for whom, and why, then makes sure it actually gets made and performs. A typical day includes reviewing content performance data, planning an editorial calendar, and briefing writers or designers on upcoming pieces.

A meaningful part of the job is auditing existing content, figuring out what's working, what's redundant, and what's missing, rather than only planning new material from scratch.

Core tasks

  • Planning content calendars and campaigns
  • Analyzing content performance data
  • Briefing writers, designers, or video teams
  • Auditing existing content for gaps and redundancy
  • Aligning content with broader marketing or business goals
  • Maintaining consistency in voice and messaging

Tools & skills used

Content planning and editorial calendar toolsAnalytics platformsStrong writing and editing skillsSEO fundamentalsCross-functional coordinationAudience research

Typical entry paths

  • Communication Studies, Journalism, English, or Marketing
  • Many content strategists move into the role from writing or editorial positions

Common misconceptions

  • It's a planning and analysis role as much as a writing one, strategists often oversee content more than they personally write it.
  • Good content strategy is grounded in audience data and business goals, not just personal taste about what's interesting.

Frequently asked questions

What does a Content Strategist do?

Plans what content an organization creates and why, across channels.

What are the core tasks of a Content Strategist?

Day to day, this typically includes: Planning content calendars and campaigns; Analyzing content performance data; Briefing writers, designers, or video teams.

What tools or skills does a Content Strategist use?

Common tools and skills for this role include Content planning and editorial calendar tools, Analytics platforms, Strong writing and editing skills, SEO fundamentals.

How do people typically become a Content Strategist?

Communication Studies, Journalism, English, or Marketing. Many content strategists move into the role from writing or editorial positions.

What's a common misconception about being a Content Strategist?

It's a planning and analysis role as much as a writing one, strategists often oversee content more than they personally write it.

What college majors lead to becoming a Content Strategist?

Majors that commonly lead here include Communication Studies, Journalism, English Literature. A major shapes what you study, it isn't a guarantee of landing this specific role.

This describes what the role typically involves day to day. It's not a guarantee of hiring, salary, or advancement, actual responsibilities vary by employer, industry, and location. See our disclaimer.

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