1. The Cash-Cow Content Matrix

(Inspired by the BCG growth–share model)

Divide your content into four quadrants based on performance (engagement, reach) and potential (growth opportunity):

Quadrant	Definition	Creator Example	Action
Stars	High performance, high growth potential	A popular tutorial on your niche topic	Double down—make series, deep dives, paid workshop
Cash Cows	High performance, low growth potential	Evergreen “how-to” that consistently works	Milk it—repurpose monthly, schedule on autopilot
Question Marks	Low performance, high growth potential	New format (e.g. short-form skits)	Experiment—test variations, tweak timing, promote
Dogs	Low performance, low potential	Random off-topic memes	Retire or rethink—don’t waste your scarce time

Why it works:

• You focus on Stars and Cash Cows for maximum ROI.
• You experiment with Question Marks but don’t over-invest.
• You trim Dogs to avoid distraction.

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2. SWOT Your Content

(Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats)

Use a quick SWOT to audit where you stand:

SWOT	Creator Prompt
Strengths	What formats or topics do you nail? (e.g., storytelling, editing)
Weaknesses	Which posts underperform? Where do you stall?
Opportunities	What gaps exist in your niche? Untapped platforms?
Threats	What crowded trends or algorithm changes threaten you?

How to run it:

1. Grab your last 20 posts—note top 5 and bottom 5.
2. In a shared doc, list strengths and weaknesses around those extremes.
3. Scan competitor feeds and keyword trends (AnswerThePublic, Exploding Topics) for Opportunities.
4. Read platform blogs (Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn) to spot algorithm Threats.

Why it works:

• You build on real strengths.
• You stop repeating mistakes.
• You jump on emerging trends.
• You guard against pipeline disruptions.

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3. Performance vs. Differentiation

(Winning the algorithm vs. owning your niche)

• Performance-Based Content
  • Definition: Formats and topics proven to get high reach (e.g., TikTok challenges, trending hashtags).
  • Benefit: Quick visibility and follower growth.
  • Risk: Blends into noise if you just chase every trend.
• Differentiation Content
  • Definition: Unique angles, deep expertise, personal stories that no one else can replicate.
  • Benefit: Builds loyal fans and authority.
  • Risk: Slower to gain traction if audience size is small.

Balanced Mix:

Week’s Posts	Example Mix
70% Performance-Based	Trend challenge, trending audio Reel, AMA Story
30% Differentiation	Deep-dive carousel, personal journey vlog, niche tutorial

Why it works:

• You stay on the algorithm’s good side with high-engagement formats.
• You win hearts with your one-of-a-kind voice and knowledge.

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Bringing It All Together: A 4-Step Mini Audit

1. Map Your Matrix: Slot last month’s posts into your Cash-Cow quadrants—spot underused Stars or overdue Dogs.
2. Run a Quick SWOT: Update your doc with new strengths (e.g., your AI editing speed) and threats (e.g., algorithm favoring short video).
3. Plan Your Mix: Aim for a 70/30 split performance/differentiation; plan at least one Star, one Cash Cow, and one Question Mark each week.
4. Schedule & Execute: Block your sprint, use AI ideation if needed, load your scheduler, and let your Evergreen Vault fill the gaps.

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Ready to Level Up?

For a deeper dive on using strategic content planners, grab our free Notion template in the Content Planner Template Guide.

Tagged: creators

Type: article

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addd about evergreen content, etc