11 May HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025

 

How-to content continues to be one of the most consumed and effective formats in content marketing, helping brands educate, guide, and convert their audiences. As users increasingly search for actionable solutions, this type of content has become a staple across industries. From video tutorials to step-by-step blog posts, brands are using how-to formats to build trust and generate leads.

In 2025, the performance of how-to content is closely tied to clarity, speed, and mobile accessibility. Short-form formats are gaining ground, but long-form, high-value guides still play a key role in driving deeper engagement. Marketers are also turning to AI tools and content creators to scale how-to content without sacrificing quality. Metrics like engagement, conversions, and ROI are now directly tied to how helpful and searchable the content is. Amra and Elma aims to understand the latest statistics to reveal where how-to content is succeeding—and where it’s headed next.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 (Editor’s Choice)

 

Here are 20 key statistics on how-to content performance, encompassing both general trends over time and specific insights for 2025:

1. 63% of content marketers report that content marketing has helped them build customer loyalty.

2. 83% of marketers say content marketing is the most effective method for demand generation.

3. In 2024, 14% of businesses said that their content marketing efforts resulted in the biggest ROI.

4. 63% of businesses use paid channels to accelerate content distribution.

5. In 2024, 45% of marketing and media leaders said they plan to increase their content budget in the next twelve months.

6. 80% of small business owners say they write content themselves.

7. 92% of brands said they plan to increase investments in content creators in 2024.

8. Worldwide content marketing revenue is projected to reach $107.5 billion by 2026.

9. 49% of marketers use videos to tell customers more about their product or service.

10. 21% of marketers say short-form video content delivers the best return-on-investment (ROI) in 2025.

11. Social media and website engagement are the most tracked content metrics worldwide at 53% each.

12. Over 41% of marketers measure the effectiveness of their content marketing strategy through sales.

13. 33% of marketing and media leaders say that creating high-quality content is their biggest challenge regarding content creation.

14. 61% of marketing leaders say they have a somewhat clear picture of how their content was performing, while 26% report having a very clear view of their content performance metrics.

15. 43% of Gen Z and 45% of Millennial marketers want to learn how to work with new technologies to advance in content marketing.

16. 49% of B2B marketers say content marketing is their most effective channel for driving revenue.

17. 92% of B2B businesses use short articles or posts for content marketing.

18. 89% of B2B marketers use social media platforms to distribute their content.

19. 76% of B2B companies have a dedicated content marketing team or employee.

20. 50% of B2B businesses without a dedicated content marketing team said they rely on their other departments for content creation.

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 and Future Implications

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #1. 63% of Content Marketers Report Content Marketing Has Helped Them Build Customer Loyalty

 

A significant 63% of content marketers have observed that their content marketing efforts have fostered customer loyalty. This underscores the importance of delivering consistent, valuable content that resonates with audiences. By providing informative and engaging content, brands can build trust and establish long-term relationships with their customers. As consumer expectations continue to evolve, focusing on content that addresses their needs and interests will be crucial.

In the future, personalized and interactive content may further enhance customer loyalty. Brands that invest in understanding their audience and tailoring content accordingly are likely to see increased retention and advocacy. This trend highlights the strategic role of content marketing in customer relationship management.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #2. 83% of Marketers Say Content Marketing Is the Most Effective Method for Demand Generation

 

An impressive 83% of marketers identify content marketing as their most effective strategy for generating demand. This emphasizes content’s pivotal role in attracting and nurturing leads through the sales funnel. High-quality, targeted content can educate potential customers and guide them toward making informed purchasing decisions. As markets become more saturated, differentiating through valuable content becomes increasingly important.

In the coming years, integrating content marketing with data analytics and customer insights will enhance its effectiveness. Marketers should focus on creating content that not only informs but also addresses specific pain points and solutions. This approach will likely lead to higher conversion rates and sustained business growth.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #3. In 2024, 14% of Businesses Said That Their Content Marketing Efforts Resulted in the Biggest ROI

 

In 2024, 14% of businesses reported that content marketing yielded the highest return on investment (ROI) among their marketing strategies. This statistic highlights the potential of content marketing to drive significant financial returns when executed effectively. Investing in quality content creation and distribution can lead to increased brand visibility and customer engagement.

To maximize ROI, businesses should focus on aligning content with customer needs and preferences. Utilizing analytics to measure content performance will also be essential in refining strategies. As competition intensifies, companies that prioritize content marketing may gain a competitive edge. This trend suggests a growing recognition of content marketing’s value in achieving business objectives.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #4. 63% of Businesses Use Paid Channels to Accelerate Content Distribution

 

A notable 63% of businesses leverage paid channels to enhance the reach of their content. This approach helps in targeting specific audiences and amplifying content visibility beyond organic reach. Paid distribution can be particularly effective in competitive markets where organic traffic is limited.

However, it’s essential to balance paid strategies with organic efforts to maintain authenticity and trust. In the future, integrating paid distribution with data-driven targeting will optimize content performance. Businesses should also monitor ROI to ensure that paid channels contribute positively to their marketing goals. This trend underscores the importance of a diversified content distribution strategy.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #5. In 2024, 45% of Marketing and Media Leaders Said They Plan to Increase Their Content Budget in the Next Twelve Months

 

In 2024, nearly half (45%) of marketing and media leaders indicated plans to boost their content marketing budgets. This increase reflects the growing importance of content in engaging audiences and driving business results. Allocating more resources to content creation and distribution can enhance brand storytelling and customer connection. As content marketing continues to evolve, investing in new formats and technologies will be crucial. Businesses should also consider training and development to equip teams with the necessary skills. Monitoring the effectiveness of increased spending will help in optimizing strategies. This trend signals a strategic shift toward content-centric marketing approaches.

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #6. 80% of Small Business Owners Say They Write Content Themselves

 

A significant 80% of small business owners take on the task of writing content themselves. This hands-on approach allows for authentic brand voice and direct communication with customers. However, it may also lead to challenges in maintaining consistency and quality due to time constraints.

As businesses grow, delegating content creation to professionals can enhance effectiveness. Investing in content marketing tools and training can also support small business owners in this endeavor. Balancing personal involvement with professional support will be key to scaling content efforts. This trend highlights the resourcefulness of small businesses in leveraging content marketing.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #7. 92% of Brands Said They Plan to Increase Investments in Content Creators in 2024

 

An overwhelming 92% of brands expressed intentions to boost investments in content creators in 2024. Collaborating with creators can enhance authenticity and expand reach to new audiences. This strategy leverages the trust and engagement that creators have built with their followers. As influencer marketing matures, brands should focus on long-term partnerships and alignment with brand values. Measuring the impact of creator collaborations will be essential in optimizing ROI. In the future, integrating creators into broader marketing strategies can drive innovation and customer engagement. This trend underscores the evolving dynamics of brand-creator relationships.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #8. Worldwide Content Marketing Revenue Is Projected to Reach $107.5 Billion by 2026

 

Global content marketing revenue is anticipated to soar to $107.5 billion by 2026. This growth reflects the increasing reliance on content to drive customer engagement and business outcomes. As digital consumption rises, demand for high-quality, relevant content will continue to expand.

Businesses should invest in scalable content strategies to capitalize on this trend. Embracing emerging technologies like AI and automation can enhance content production and personalization. Monitoring industry developments will be crucial in staying competitive. This projection highlights the significant economic impact of content marketing.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #9. 49% of Marketers Use Videos to Tell Customers More About Their Product or Service

 

Nearly half (49%) of marketers utilize video content to educate customers about their products or services. Videos offer a dynamic and engaging way to convey information and demonstrate value. This format can enhance understanding and influence purchasing decisions.

As video consumption continues to rise, integrating it into marketing strategies becomes increasingly important. Businesses should focus on creating high-quality, informative videos that address customer needs. Leveraging platforms like YouTube and social media can amplify reach. This trend emphasizes the effectiveness of video in content marketing.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #10. 21% of Marketers Say Short-Form Video Content Delivers the Best Return-on-Investment (ROI) in 2025

 

In 2025, 21% of marketers identified short-form video content as yielding the highest ROI. Short-form videos cater to the decreasing attention spans of audiences and are highly shareable. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels have popularized this format, making it a valuable marketing tool.

Creating concise, impactful videos can enhance engagement and brand recall. Businesses should experiment with storytelling and creativity within short time frames. Analyzing performance metrics will help in refining content strategies. This trend underscores the growing importance of short-form video in digital marketing.

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #11. Social Media and Website Engagement Are the Most Tracked Content Metrics Worldwide at 53% Each

 

Globally, 53% of marketers track social media and website engagement as key content performance metrics. These metrics provide insights into audience interaction and content effectiveness. Monitoring engagement helps in understanding customer preferences and optimizing content strategies.

Businesses should utilize analytics tools to gather and interpret engagement data. Integrating feedback mechanisms can also enhance content relevance. In the future, combining engagement metrics with conversion data will offer a comprehensive view of content performance. This trend highlights the emphasis on data-driven content marketing.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #12. Over 41% of Marketers Measure the Effectiveness of Their Content Marketing Strategy Through Sales

 

More than 41% of marketers assess their content marketing success based on sales outcomes. Linking content efforts directly to revenue underscores the importance of aligning content with business objectives. This approach necessitates clear attribution models and tracking mechanisms.

Businesses should integrate CRM systems and analytics to monitor the customer journey. Creating content that addresses different stages of the sales funnel can enhance effectiveness. Regularly reviewing performance data will aid in strategy refinement. This trend reflects the growing focus on ROI in content marketing.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #13. 33% of Marketing and Media Leaders Say That Creating High-Quality Content Is Their Biggest Challenge Regarding Content Creation

 

A third (33%) of marketing and media leaders identify producing high-quality content as their primary challenge. Quality content is essential for engaging audiences and achieving marketing goals. Challenges may stem from limited resources, lack of expertise, or time constraints.

Investing in skilled content creators and training can mitigate these issues. Implementing editorial standards and content guidelines ensures consistency. Leveraging tools for content planning and collaboration can enhance efficiency.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #14. 61% of Marketing Leaders Have Somewhat Clear or Very Clear Insights Into Content Performance

 

61 percent of marketing leaders say they have at least a somewhat clear understanding of how their content is performing, but only 26 percent claim full clarity. This shows progress in measurement capabilities but also highlights a persistent gap in precise performance tracking. With content budgets increasing, it’s becoming more important to understand exactly what is working. Future strategies will likely include real-time analytics dashboards, better attribution models, and predictive tools to close this gap.

Without clear visibility, marketers risk misallocating resources or investing in underperforming formats. As content becomes more integrated with sales and CRM systems, measurement accuracy will improve. Teams that prioritize data fluency will be better equipped to scale their efforts effectively.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #15. 43% of Gen Z and 45% of Millennials Want to Learn Emerging Tech for Content Marketing

 

Interest in emerging technologies is strong among younger marketers, with 43 percent of Gen Z and 45 percent of Millennials eager to learn how to apply new tools to content marketing. This signals a shift in how content strategies are developed, with a growing emphasis on automation, artificial intelligence, and analytics. Companies that invest in training and upskilling for their teams will be more adaptable and forward-thinking. These generations will help lead the shift toward more tech-driven, scalable content systems. In the future, we’ll likely see hybrid roles that blend creativity with data science. Employers who embrace this evolution will attract top talent. This trend also reflects the speed at which content marketing practices are evolving.

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #16. 49% of B2B Marketers Say Content Marketing Drives the Most Revenue

 

Almost half of B2B marketers say content marketing is the most effective channel for driving revenue. This reinforces the idea that well-crafted, educational content is essential in B2B buyer journeys. As decision-makers spend more time researching solutions online, informative content becomes more influential. In 2025 and beyond, marketers will align their content with each stage of the sales cycle to increase its impact.

Long-form formats like whitepapers, webinars, and case studies will continue to perform well when integrated with email and sales strategies. Success depends on delivering real value while subtly guiding prospects toward conversion. Content is no longer just for branding—it is now a key revenue asset.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #17. 92% of B2B Companies Use Short-Form Posts and Articles

 

Short-form content remains dominant among B2B organizations, with 92 percent using posts and articles in their content strategy. These formats are easier to produce and work well for thought leadership, product updates, and platform-specific engagement. As audiences grow more selective, short content must be sharp, helpful, and immediately relevant. In 2025, businesses may use AI to assist in generating drafts, while human editors maintain tone and credibility.

The challenge will be avoiding sameness as more companies publish similar surface-level content. Brands that can offer unique insights or strong visuals will stand out in increasingly crowded feeds. This format will remain essential but will need to evolve with audience expectations.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #18. 89% of B2B Marketers Distribute Content on Social Media

 

Social media is a key distribution channel for 89 percent of B2B marketers, particularly platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter. These channels provide quick visibility and allow brands to reach decision-makers in real time. However, declining organic reach means more marketers are supplementing their efforts with paid social campaigns. As 2025 progresses, short-form video and carousel posts will become more prominent, even in B2B.

Success will depend on understanding platform-specific behavior and tailoring content accordingly. Marketers must also focus on interaction rather than just broadcasting. Social platforms will remain vital for amplifying larger content assets and starting conversations.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #19. 76% of B2B Brands Have a Dedicated Content Marketer or Team

 

A growing number of B2B companies now treat content as a core function, with 76 percent having dedicated content marketing staff. These teams provide consistency, quality control, and strategic focus that ad-hoc contributors often lack. As content becomes central to lead generation and customer retention, having specialized roles is no longer optional.

In 2025, we can expect to see more niche content roles emerge, including SEO editors, content data analysts, and AI prompt engineers. Dedicated teams are also better positioned to handle the growing complexity of omnichannel publishing. This investment reflects the shift from content as a side task to a strategic pillar of marketing. Companies that invest here are likely to see stronger long-term performance.

 

 

HOW-TO CONTENT PERFORMANCE STATISTICS 2025 #20. 50% of B2B Companies Without a Dedicated Content Team Rely on Other Departments

 

Half of B2B companies that lack a formal content team depend on departments like sales, product, or customer service to create content. While this can offer real-world insights, it often leads to inconsistent messaging and uneven quality. Without editorial oversight, content may miss strategic goals or fail to align with brand tone. In 2025, many of these organizations will need to professionalize content creation to stay competitive.

Scaling a content program requires structure, process, and accountability—something ad-hoc contributions can rarely sustain. Companies that make content a shared but managed responsibility will achieve better alignment. This trend points to an inflection point in how B2B brands approach content maturity.

 

 

Future Priorities for Scaling High-Performing How-To Content

 

The data shows that how-to content remains a high-performing asset across both B2B and B2C strategies, especially when paired with short-form formats, video, and clear distribution channels. But as competition grows and attention spans shrink, producing generic guides is no longer enough. Brands need to invest in measurement tools, skilled content teams, and emerging technologies to keep their content relevant and discoverable.

Younger marketers are eager to drive this evolution by embracing automation and analytics, signaling a shift toward faster, more intelligent content cycles. Businesses without dedicated content teams may soon face pressure to professionalize or risk falling behind in both engagement and revenue. The next wave of how-to content will be defined not only by what it teaches—but by how precisely it’s delivered, tracked, and optimized. Those who lead in clarity, consistency, and usefulness will define the new standard in 2025 and beyond.

 

 

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