Best Practices for Promised Client Content

Promised content refers to articles provided to advertisers as part of their contractual agreement with the publisher. Maintaining a balance between promised content and authentic community content is vital for preserving the magazine’s integrity. A 50/50 ratio is recommended to reflect the community while honoring advertiser agreements.

Best Practices for Promised Content

1. Keep the Balance:
   • Avoid exceeding 50% promised content to maintain editorial integrity.
   • Use creative strategies to integrate advertiser content seamlessly. 
2. Planning and Organization:
   • Customer Content Tab in ARC:
     • Under the Issues tab in ARC, you’ll find the Customer Content section.
     • This lists advertisers with promised articles and the approximate timeline for publication.
     • Confirm timelines with the publisher, as dates may need adjustment.
   • Spreadsheet Tracking:
     • Collaborate with the publisher using a shared spreadsheet.
     • Track advertisers’ promised content by month and plan upcoming issues.
     • Use the spreadsheet to manage additional advertiser opportunities, such as features in Business Monthly or City Scene.
3. Advertiser Communication and Preparation:
   • Review the Customer Content tab for advertiser details, including contact information and any notes from the publisher.
   • If information is incomplete, contact the publisher before reaching out to the advertiser.
   • Prepare article angle ideas before discussing with the advertiser, but remain open to their input.
   • Emphasize your role in crafting compelling content that will engage readers, ensuring advertisers trust your editorial judgment.
4. Set Boundaries:
   • Editorial vs. Advertising:
     • Remind advertisers that an editorial differs from an ad and that your team specializes in presenting them in the best light.
     • Avoid allowing advertisers to dictate layout, page count, or design.
   • Corporate Design Control:
     • Be cautious of overpromising on design specifics, as corporate guidelines often govern article layouts.
     • Keeping clear roles reduces advertiser maintenance and ensures editorial control remains with your team.

Steps to Add Promised Content in ARC

Promised content is entered the same as standard content. The only difference is that it is for an advertiser, so you will want to link it to the business in the assignment tab.

1. Navigate to the Issues Tab:
   • Go to the Editorial portal and click on Issues.
2. Add Content:
   • Click the “Add” button next to your available pages.
   • In the Add Article pop-up, select Use Recipe or Custom Content and fill out the required information.
3. Link Content to the Advertiser:
   • Link the content to the advertiser using the Assignment Tab.
   • Click Yes under the “Is this article associated with a business?” question. 
   • Search for the advertiser under Company, paying attention to the advertiser’s address.
   • Select the advertiser from the list. 
   • Click the Save button.
4. Verify Details:
   • Check the Customer Content tab for advertiser agreements and timelines.
   • Confirm details with the publisher before proceeding.
5. Track and Review:
   • Use a shared spreadsheet to monitor content progress and plan future issues.
   • Include notes on extra advertiser opportunities, such as event features or other editorial spaces.