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Strategy9 min read2026-01-18

How to Create Content Pillars for Your Small Business

Never run out of ideas again. Learn how to build 4-5 content pillars that guide all your social media posts.

How to Create Content Pillars for Your Small Business

Content pillars are the 4-5 main themes that ALL your content falls under. They keep you focused, consistent, and strategic.

Why You Need Content Pillars

Without pillars:

  • You post randomly
  • Your feed looks inconsistent
  • You run out of ideas constantly
  • Followers don't know what you're about

With pillars:

  • Every post has a purpose
  • Your brand is clear and consistent
  • Ideas come easier
  • Followers know what to expect

The 5 Content Pillar Framework

Here's a simple framework that works for most small businesses:

Pillar 1: Educational (30%)

Teach your audience something valuable related to your expertise.

Examples:
  • How-to guides
  • Tips and tricks
  • Industry insights
  • Myth-busting

Pillar 2: Behind-the-Scenes (20%)

Show the human side of your business.

Examples:
  • Day in your life
  • How you work
  • Team features
  • Workspace tours

Pillar 3: Social Proof (20%)

Let your results and customers speak for you.

Examples:
  • Testimonials
  • Case studies
  • Before/after
  • Customer spotlights

Pillar 4: Promotional (15%)

Actually sell your stuff (yes, you're allowed to do this).

Examples:
  • Product features
  • Service explanations
  • Offers and deals
  • How to work with you

Pillar 5: Personal/Lifestyle (15%)

Connect on a human level.

Examples:
  • Your story
  • Values and beliefs
  • Hobbies and interests
  • Wins and struggles

How to Find YOUR Pillars

Ask yourself:

  1. What does my audience need to learn?
  2. What makes my business unique?
  3. What results do I create?
  4. What do I want to be known for?
  5. What makes me relatable?

Content Pillar Examples by Industry

Restaurant

  1. Menu highlights & food photography
  2. Kitchen behind-the-scenes
  3. Customer reviews & photos
  4. Chef/team stories
  5. Local community involvement

Fitness Coach

  1. Workout tips & tutorials
  2. Client transformations
  3. Nutrition advice
  4. Personal fitness journey
  5. Motivation & mindset

Professional Services (Accountant, Lawyer, etc.)

  1. Educational tips for clients
  2. Industry news explained simply
  3. Client success stories
  4. Behind-the-scenes of your work
  5. Personal brand building

Your Weekly Content Mix

| Day | Pillar | Post Type |

|-----|--------|-----------|

| Mon | Educational | Quick tip |

| Tue | Behind-the-Scenes | Process/workspace |

| Wed | Social Proof | Testimonial |

| Thu | Personal | Story or lifestyle |

| Fri | Promotional | Product/service feature |


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