This week, I’m proud to host another guest on the blog.
I met Hannah Squires, of Doubleshot, at a recent workshop ‘Blogging for Business’ that I ran on behalf of Brand 51.
I always offer delegates at my events the opportunity to showcase their business on the blog.
During the workshop, the group discussed the power of great imagery on an effective blog post and touched on the growing popularity of Vlogs (Video Blogging).
As a video editor and social media marketer for a Bristol-based video production company, Doubleshot, Hannah has some great insights to share.
A big thank you to Hannah for contributing
Three-part beginners’ guide to vlogging
You’ve probably noticed that video is dominating our social channels, it’s everywhere you look! …and while video adverts can seem expensive and out of reach for most small businesses, vlogging is a wonderfully inexpensive way to market yourself using video.
Please don’t start to panic! You don’t need to be a video expert to start vlogging, as long as you have something worthwhile to say you can use video to drive your business forward and create a dynamic and memorable profile at the same time. If you don’t know the first thing about vlogging, but you know you want to start, here is some advice.
Content
When crafting your content think about simple and innovative ways to convey information whilst entertaining your viewers. Play to your strengths, be resourceful and find your own authenticity.
Perhaps you could record day to day activities in your office, invite your audience into your company’s brainstorming sessions, or maximise on your team talents by getting them to talk about their specialist subject? You can vlog about almost anything, just make sure it’s valuable to your viewers.
Know what you want to say but not how you are going to say it? Have an idea or a question in mind that you are going to answer, but don’t write out every sentence word by word. If you plan everything you are going to say it will come across unnatural and you will lose those small characteristics that make us all unique and relatable. The beauty of video is that you can re-record your vlog as many times as you like and then rearrange what you say in the edit, so don’t worry about getting it perfect the first time.
Try and keep your vlogs upbeat by injecting a little humour into them. This will help you build a stronger relationship with your viewers… and don’t forget to smile! A genuine smile will relax yourself and everyone watching.
Equipment
Filming equipment doesn’t have to be as expensive as you think. These days you can make a good video on your phone. If you are thinking of filming more often, you might want to invest in a good camera or even just the latest iPhone. People won’t expect the editing of your vlogs to be of ‘blockbuster’ quality either. Basic cutting can be done on your smartphone or on YouTube for free.
The main rule is to make sure that the space is well lit, and that the audio is clear. This doesn’t mean you need to go out and buy the latest microphone and studio lights. Position yourself so you are facing a window, or flick on a couple of lamps. If you can take a good selfie, you can light a good video.
Make sure you pick a room that is far away from any noise pollution. Things like kettles and running water. If the room seems a little echoey, throw a few cushions around. Soft furnishings will help keep your audio sounding clear and professional.
Consistency
Consistency is an important factor when vlogging, be consistent about when and how often you are going to post a new vlog. If you only have time to vlog once a month that’s fine, if you want to vlog every week, great! – but make sure you stick to it.
Unfortunately, we have very short attention spans, so keep your vlogs short, around 30 seconds or less. If you have more to say, we recommend using the vlog to recap your points and then posting a full copy article in a link below. 96% of consumers will click links after watching videos, so if they enjoyed your vlog it’s very likely they will click your link as well. Also, this will drive traffic to your website, which is the whole point of vlogging in the first place! So win win!
Every business big or small can benefit from vlogging. I know it seems scary at first, but the more you do it the more comfortable you will feel. If you want to know more tips for vlogging, or you need some video marketing advice you can contact me at hannah@doubleshot.tv, always happy to give advice.
Happy vlogging!
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Biog:
Hannah Squires is the video editor and social media marketer for a Bristol-based video production company, Doubleshot. Doubleshot create effective online videos for businesses from tech start-ups to luxury brands. You can find out more at www.doubleshot.tv.
For more inspiration, advice and tips on creating an effective blog to build your business get my ‘Blogging for Business‘ book here:
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