Curation: Finding the signal in the noise
Curation is more than just collecting; it's the art of intelligent filtering, organising, and presenting information to a specific audience. A skilled curator acts as a trusted guide, helping you unearth the most relevant and valuable content. For businesses, this translates to increased engagement, stronger brand identity, and ultimately, a more impactful presence.
What to look for in a curation freelancer
When hiring a curation freelancer, look for a blend of analytical thinking, creative flair, and a deep understanding of your target audience. Essential skills include strong research abilities, excellent organisational skills, and a keen eye for detail. A successful curator possesses a natural curiosity and a passion for discovering hidden gems of information.
Key aspects to consider:
- Proven experience in curating content for a similar audience or industry
- A strong portfolio showcasing their curation projects and methodologies
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
- Adaptability and the ability to tailor their approach to different platforms and formats
Main expertise areas within curation
Curation spans a wide range of specialisations. When briefing a freelancer, consider which of these areas best aligns with your needs:
Content curation
Creating thematic collections of articles, blog posts, videos, and other online resources to engage a specific audience.
Product curation
Selecting and showcasing a range of products that resonate with a particular target market, often seen in e-commerce and retail.
Social media curation
Managing and optimising social media feeds by sharing relevant and engaging content from various sources.
Event curation
Developing and organising events, conferences, and exhibitions around a specific theme or topic.
News curation
Filtering and presenting news articles and updates relevant to a specific industry or interest group.
Relevant interview questions
To assess a potential freelancer's curation skills, consider asking these questions:
- Describe your curation process. How do you identify and select relevant content?
- Can you share examples of successful curation projects you've worked on?
- How do you measure the effectiveness of your curation efforts?
- What tools and technologies do you use for curation?
- How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments in your field?
Tips for shortlisting candidates
- Review portfolios carefully, paying attention to the quality and relevance of the curated content.
- Look for evidence of a strategic approach to curation, rather than simply aggregating information.
- Check testimonials and client feedback to gauge their professionalism and reliability.
Potential red flags to watch out for
Be wary of freelancers who:
- Lack a clear understanding of your target audience
- Present a portfolio with inconsistencies throughout their work
- Are unable to articulate their curation methodology
- Over-promise or fail to provide realistic timelines
Typical complementary skills
Curation often goes hand-in-hand with skills such as:
- Social media management
- Content writing and editing
- SEO and digital marketing
- Community management
Benefits of hiring a curation freelancer
By outsourcing your curation needs to a freelancer, you can:
- Save time and resources by leveraging their expertise
- Enhance your brand's online presence and authority
- Engage your target audience with relevant and valuable content
- Stay ahead of the curve by accessing the latest industry insights
- Free up your internal team to focus on core business activities
Examples of curation in action
- A fashion retailer hires a freelancer to curate a collection of seasonal outfits, showcasing key trends and driving sales.
- A technology company employs a curator to gather and share relevant industry news and articles, positioning themselves as thought leaders.
- A museum commissions a freelancer to curate a digital exhibition, making their collection accessible to a wider audience.
