We get it – the idea of putting yourself out there with video marketing can be downright terrifying. But here’s the thing: feeling the fear and doing it anyway can transform your business and brand in ways you never imagined. So, grab your camera (or smartphone) and let’s dive into the world of video marketing, where imperfections are celebrated, authenticity is the name of the game and being relatable is your secret weapon.
Embrace the Awkward: People Buy from People
The lens can feel like a judgmental eye, scrutinising every quirk and imperfection. But guess what? People buy from people. Your audience wants to know the face behind the brand, the human behind the business. So, embrace the awkward, show your personality, and let your audience connect with the real you through video marketing.
What to Say (and What Not to Say)
When using video marketing for your business, focus on sharing value, insights, and behind-the-scenes glimpses. Talk about your passion, your journey, and how your product or service can solve problems. Avoid the hard sell, jargon overload, and anything that feels too rehearsed.
Give your audience a taste of your expertise. Discuss industry trends, share success stories, or provide tips and tricks. Try to steer clear of topics that might be too controversial, overly polarising opinions, or anything that might alienate your audience.
Perfection in Video Marketing is Overrated
Let’s bust a myth – your video doesn’t need to be perfect. Authenticity trumps perfection every time. So, ditch the idea of a flawless presentation. Your audience is more forgiving than you think, they’re human, just like you! And they appreciate genuine, unfiltered content.
Share the bloopers, the unscripted moments, and the occasional mispronunciation. It humanises you and makes your content more relatable. Remember, authenticity is about being real, not polished, unrelatable perfection.
Teleprompters to the Rescue
If the fear of forgetting what to say is holding you back, consider using a teleprompter. These handy tools can keep your thoughts organised and help you maintain a steady flow. It’s like having a friendly script assistant right in front of you.
Experiment with your delivery style. Use bullet points to guide your thoughts, but don’t be afraid to speak from the heart. Teleprompters can be a helpful crutch in video marketing, but don’t let them stifle your natural charisma.
Filters vs. Natural
While filters can be fun, authenticity wins the day. Your audience wants to see the real you, not a highly edited version. Natural lighting, genuine expressions, and a touch of humour go a long way. Remember, your quirks make you memorable.
Yes, good lighting can enhance your video, but don’t let it overshadow your personality. Be mindful of your surroundings, choose a clean and clutter-free backdrop, and let your genuine self take centre stage.
Relatability is Key
Making yourself relatable is a powerful way to connect with your audience. Share personal stories, be vulnerable, and let your audience see the human side of your business. Relatability builds trust and trust builds loyalty.
Discuss challenges you’ve faced in your business journey and how you overcame them. It could be a project gone awry or a personal struggle related to your industry. Your audience will appreciate your openness and authenticity.
Facing the Mirror – Overcoming Self-Criticism
We’re our own harshest critics. But here’s the thing: your audience isn’t analysing every detail like you are. They’re interested in your message, your passion, and your expertise. So, let go of self-criticism and focus on delivering value.
Invest time in practicing self-compassion. Remember, everyone starts somewhere, and improvement comes with consistency. As you get more comfortable in front of the camera, your self-criticism will gradually take a back seat.
Avoiding Hot Water – Keeping It Professional
It’s crucial to be authentic, but that doesn’t mean letting loose without boundaries. Avoid overly controversial topics, offensive language, or anything that could land you in hot water. Remember, professionalism can coexist with authenticity.
Before hitting record, set clear boundaries for your content. Stay informed about industry standards and ethics, ensuring your videos align with your brand values. Professionalism adds credibility to your authenticity.
Authenticity Speaks Louder Than Words
Passion is contagious. When you’re genuinely enthusiastic about your business, your audience will feel it. Authenticity speaks volumes and resonates with viewers. Let your passion shine through, and watch your audience respond.
Infuse your videos with energy and excitement. Whether you’re discussing a new product, sharing a success story, or addressing customer concerns, let your passion and commitment be the driving force behind your message.
Choosing the Right Platform for your Video Marketing
Different platforms cater to different audiences. Consider your ideal customer – are they on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or perhaps YouTube? Tailor your content to fit the platform where your audience hangs out the most.
Understand the unique strengths of each platform. If you’re demonstrating products, YouTube might be your go-to. If your content is visually appealing, Instagram could be the perfect fit. Align your video strategy with the platform that complements your business and what you’re aiming to achieve.
In the end, video marketing is a journey of self-discovery and brand evolution. It’s about finding your voice, embracing imperfections, and letting your authenticity shine. So, grab that camera, hit record, and show the world what you’re made of. Your audience is waiting to meet the real you! 🚀🎥
