Business owners have always had many avenues for communicating their marketing messages to clients, but the newest avenue is videocasting (online video). This method is inexpensive, easy and helps quickly build rapport with current and potential clients. The only expense is a handheld video camera, which you may already own. With a little bit of practice, you can be adding this high-tech feature to your website or blog.
There are many applications any type of business can use video for. Retail business can record a walk-through of their store including special features, customer service and sales. "Main Street" businesses can record basic maintenance techniques, like changing furnace filters, as a courtesy to their customers and a way to build interest and loyalty among prospects.
There are excellent reasons for service businesses to use video. You can have a conversation with current or future customers, giving them an introduction to who you are and what you do. You also can provide free training videos which builds trust in what you have to offer. Knowing who you are in advance improves the chances that viewers will reach out to you for additional services.
One of the great things about videocasting is it isn't expensive. Good video cameras, even those with high definition recording, can be found for $150 or less. It may be that your personal digital camera has adequate recording capabilities as well. Invest in an inexpensive tripod and use this when recording yourself talking at a desk. If you are recording a training video showing a process, an extra pair of hands managing the camera is preferred. Keep your clips short-3 minutes or less.
Natural lighting is always preferred, but make sure whatever you use is of decent quality. Keep your filming area quiet. But, do note that many successful entrepreneurs have built loyal followings while breaking every recording rule, like walking when talking or having moderate quality video. In the end, it is about offering something unique to your viewers. Be prepared to do several takes at first while you get used to the recording process.
Your video camera will come with basic editing software which is enough. Often no editing is required and your free software will allow you to directly upload videos to YouTube. YouTube has social media features where you can communicate and network with other members and it also allows you free storage of your video. If you don't already have a YouTube account, open one and complete the full profile including a link to your company's site.
When your video is uploaded to YouTube, make it public so people can find it easily. YouTube offers the "share" feature and you can retrieve either the URL link or the code to add the video to your website. Videocasting is an inexpensive but very worthwhile marketing tool that can help you stand out from your competitors!
There are many applications any type of business can use video for. Retail business can record a walk-through of their store including special features, customer service and sales. "Main Street" businesses can record basic maintenance techniques, like changing furnace filters, as a courtesy to their customers and a way to build interest and loyalty among prospects.
There are excellent reasons for service businesses to use video. You can have a conversation with current or future customers, giving them an introduction to who you are and what you do. You also can provide free training videos which builds trust in what you have to offer. Knowing who you are in advance improves the chances that viewers will reach out to you for additional services.
One of the great things about videocasting is it isn't expensive. Good video cameras, even those with high definition recording, can be found for $150 or less. It may be that your personal digital camera has adequate recording capabilities as well. Invest in an inexpensive tripod and use this when recording yourself talking at a desk. If you are recording a training video showing a process, an extra pair of hands managing the camera is preferred. Keep your clips short-3 minutes or less.
Natural lighting is always preferred, but make sure whatever you use is of decent quality. Keep your filming area quiet. But, do note that many successful entrepreneurs have built loyal followings while breaking every recording rule, like walking when talking or having moderate quality video. In the end, it is about offering something unique to your viewers. Be prepared to do several takes at first while you get used to the recording process.
Your video camera will come with basic editing software which is enough. Often no editing is required and your free software will allow you to directly upload videos to YouTube. YouTube has social media features where you can communicate and network with other members and it also allows you free storage of your video. If you don't already have a YouTube account, open one and complete the full profile including a link to your company's site.
When your video is uploaded to YouTube, make it public so people can find it easily. YouTube offers the "share" feature and you can retrieve either the URL link or the code to add the video to your website. Videocasting is an inexpensive but very worthwhile marketing tool that can help you stand out from your competitors!
About the Author:
With 30 years of consulting experience, Steven Schlagel offers training and coaching for startups, entrepreneurs and small business owners. Check his site for more articles to increase your success!
