8 Video Tips That Will Improve Your Online Presence
How to Mix Video
into Your Current Marketing Plan
In today's increasingly digital world, it is crucial to mix video into your current marketing plan. Learn how to boost your marketing strategies, here.
There are a lot of video marketing myths out there. Lots of businesses think that their audience isn't interested in video, or that traditional marketing methods are still superior.
This definitely isn't the case, though.
The majority of consumers actually think that video is more memorable than traditional marketing displays.
A 2015 survey found that only 14 percent of consumers could remember the last display ad they'd seen. However, a whopping 80 percent could recall the last video ad they watched.
If you want to mix video into your current marketing strategy, keep reading.
We're sharing some great tips that will help you create videos that improve your online presence and boost your bottom line.
How to Mix Video into Your Marketing Plan
Of course, in order to reap all these benefits, there are some specific steps you'll need to follow when you start creating videos.
Lucky for you, we're giving you a step-by-step guide that will make it easy for you to start creating content.
Establish Your Goals
Do some brainstorming up front and think about the type of videos you want to create. You'll also need to ask yourself why you want to mix video into your marketing plan.
Some other questions to ask yourself during this brainstorming session include:
What demographics do I need to appeal to?
What kind of response do I want to get from viewers?
How can I establish myself (and my brand) as an industry expert?
There are several different types of videos that you can make to help promote your business. Some common ones include:
Product demonstrations
Videos showcasing your company's mission statement/values
Highly shareable "viral videos" that are funny, shocking, or informational
Simple clips (about 1 minute) geared toward social media followers
All of these types of videos have value and can help you promote your business. You don't have to settle on just one. In fact, it's best to diversify your video content so your audience doesn't get bored.
2. Create a Roadmap
Once you've thought of some different kinds of videos you'd like to create, spend some time breaking down the creation process and giving yourself a roadmap to follow.
What components will you need to cover in the video?
If it's a how-to video, you'll need to figure out the specific steps your viewers will need to take. If it's a promotional video, you'll need to list the most important features of your product or service.
Outlining your video helps give you direction. You're also less likely to turn into a deer in the headlights if you have something to refer to while filming.
3. Keep Things Simple
Don't try to take on too much, too quickly.
Viewers value simple, straight-forward content. They typically don't want to spend a ton of time watching your videos. That's why short videos are so effective.
Get straight to the point, keep it simple, and make it clear what your audience should do after watching your video.
If you have a more complex concept for a video, consider breaking it up into several short videos rather than creating one long one.
4. Set Up a Recording Space
Take some time figuring out where you're going to record your videos.
Is there a room in your office that you can dedicate to filming how-to videos and product demonstrations?
Your recording space doesn't need to be fancy. It simply needs to be quiet with a basic background that won't be distracting to viewers. You'll also want to look for some lights to help get rid of shadows while filming.
5. Find a Videographer
It's fine to film simple videos on your own with a good camera and tripod. But, if you want to get fancy and create some high-quality productions, it's best to bring in a professional.
When it comes to hiring a videographer to film your promotional videos, don't just hire the first person you find on Google.
Some tips for hiring a great videographer include:
Dig deeper than the demo reel (look at lots of finished projects).
Check out their most recent work.
Get quotes from several candidates
Remember that you get what you pay for
Remember to take your time when hiring a videographer or video productions company, even if you're eager to get your videos out there.
Your audience won't respond well to low-quality videos. It's worth it to wait until you find someone who can truly capture your vision.
6. Get Started
Once you've found a videographer and put together some ideas for videos, it's time to start filming!
Don't just assume your videographer will handle everything.
When you mix video content into your marketing strategy, you need to be an active participant in the filming and editing process.
It's your job to make sure your message is getting across in the best way possible.
This can be a bit frustrating at the beginning. But, over time, you'll get better at communicating with the camera and your videographer, and you'll figure out a process that works for you.
7. Share Your Videos Around
Now, it's time to share your videos around!
Post the finished products on your website and your social media pages.
Be sure to optimize your videos for the search engines as well by including the following elements:
Catchy, clever title
Clear description
Relevant tags
Closed captioning script
Custom, eye-catching thumbnails
Don't forget to engage with your viewers, either.
If someone comments on your video, take the time to thank them for their feedback (whether it's positive or negative). Creating a relationship with viewers is a great way to bring in new customers and increase trust in your brand.
8. Stick to a Schedule
Consistent uploading is key for video marketing. Draw out a video production schedule and stick to it.
Remember, it's not just about blocking off days to film videos.
You'll also need to include brainstorming sessions and reviews of follower feedback and video performance in your schedule.
Taking time to go over feedback and performance is especially important. This information will help you figure out what kinds of videos people enjoy and click on the most.
Don't just throw stuff out there and hope that it sticks. Be strategic and plan your videos out so that they're sure to be successful.