Let's be real: being on camera is hard.  Like, way hard.

(Why am I talking like a 14-year-old at a Homecoming dance?)

But I've come to understand the power of showcasing WHO I am, in addition to WHAT I do.  A intro/bio video, a tutorial, or educational content on behalf of my business has proven to be incredibly helpful in terms of organic marketing.

Now, I get it, it's not easy being on camera.  It's awkward, sweat-inducing, and adds on 14-pounds (or at least that's what I tell myself…never mind the ice cream I stress-ate for days before the shoot).

However, I've learned a few things along the way, and I'm sharing them today to ensure you're prepared to slay your video productions.

HOW TO PREPARE CREATING A VIDEO FOR YOUR BUSINESS

1. Have a Plan
   1. How long will the video be?  It's important to know this advance, so you're not rambling. (rambling = boring)
   2. Who's the video for?  Be specific.  It's not enough to say a video is for females.  In fact the more specific you are with your audience, the more valuable it'll be because it'll answer questions with specificity and quickly show your expertise.
   3. Why would viewers want to watch the video?  When you can answer this question, the content practically builds itself.  When you know what questions you'll be answering in the video, you can trust what you say will be direct, consumable, and clear.
2. Use a Teleprompter
   1. For years I used a dry-erase board next to a camera as a ‘teleprompter' (<–the air-quotes are used because I realize this was a ghetto fabulous option).  But, hey, it did the job.
   2. Later I placed my laptop next to my camera with a 5-second slideshow screen saver that flipped through my script.  (Again, I realize this is totally bootleg, but I did what I needed to make it work on a budget!).
   3. Now I use THIS teleprompter connected to an iPad…and it's a game-changer.  No, really, totally worth the investment.
3. Use a Detailed Outline or Script
   1. The quickest way to lose a viewer's attention is to get off track, ramble, or get distracted by your ideas.  To avoid this, create a detailed outline or write a script.  When paired with Step #2 (above), you'll feel confident and be unstoppable, boo.
4. Explain What Video is About in the First 15 Seconds
   1. Video is amazing, but it's also difficult to keep attention…if you can clearly state your objective/thesis/topic before you lose attention, there's a greater chance of viewers sticking with you until the end.  State the topic, outline what the video will entail, and explain how to achieve the end result.  This leads me to my next point…
5. Provide Actionable Steps Viewers Can Do After Watching Your Video
   1. Video viewers love when you give them step-by-step directions, action plans, or directions on how to implement your advice/ideas/instructions.  The video is made extra valuable when viewers feel like you offered them keys to answer their own questions.  The best videos are those that educate, explain, and empower viewers, all as a reflection of your business.

I hope this advice helps as you prepare to create a video for your business.  If you'd like to see the videos I produced on behalf of my business, you can check them out HERE on my Facebook page.

I wish you all the best and can't wait to see you slay it on camera.  Remember, you have something special to share, so share your unique business perspective with the world…we're waiting for you.