Bite the bullet and embrace video

The case for video

When you think about it, nobody likes hearing or seeing themselves on video. Everyone thinks their voice sounds strange or that they look terrible. That’s probably the largest reason why so many have been reluctant to really utilize video in their marketing tactics. They’re afraid of being judged poorly and are apprehensive about putting themselves out there in a more personal way. Unfortunately, in this day and age, you really have no choice: you must start utilizing video.

The numbers don’t lie. Multiple studies have shown that video gets more engagement from your online network than any other form of content. This makes perfect sense. We’ve become a society of voyeurs. People want to know what those that they know (and even those they only know of) are up to. Video allows you to get an insight into someone’s personality and get a feel for what they’re all about. In a world where people are so interested in what others are doing online, practically every industry out there needs to start embracing video marketing.

Still not convinced? Think about it: YouTube is one of the biggest websites in the entire world right now. People are more intrigued by visual and creative content than they’ve ever been. Words still create a powerful impact, but it’s not longer enough to rely on words alone. You HAVE to incorporate your words with engaging and creative images.

Using video to amp up your marketing

There are numerous ways that you can use video to amp up your marketing efforts:

•    How-to videos and quick tips. People love to hear about shortcuts that you discover or learn a new trick. If you discover a new technology feature or shortcut, take a video of your screen and record a quick “how-to.” People will appreciate the help. This will establish you as a tech-savvy and sharp individual, which is an attractive quality when people are looking to hire someone for a service.
•    Show the fun side of your company. You can take footage of people working or having fun around the office, compile it into a video montage, set it to some upbeat music and put it online. You will immediately show the fun-loving and carefree side of your business, which your network and client base will love.
•    Announce major news for your industry. Do you have an important announcement to make about your business? Did a big piece of news just break about your particular industry? Use video to reveal it or comment on said news item. When something is “hot off the presses,” so to speak, people want to hear about it right away. Posting a video about something many are anticipating to hear about will create excitement and buzz about your business.

The best part about video marketing? It’s easy. With today’s technology you can take videos on your phone or record one on your iPad and upload it online almost immediately. It’s no longer the drawn-out hassle that it once was. Given how convenient it is to create and upload your own video and the increase in engagement you will see online, you really have no excuse NOT to embrace video in your marketing.

So go ahead. Get over the fear of looking foolish, bite the bullet, and start creating videos. It might be more fun than you think.