A basic overview of video marketing and its importance
Let's get straight to the point: most - if not all - social media platforms are quickly evolving to become mostly 'videocentric' platforms. Just look at Facebook with their Facebook Watch section. Marketers have noticed this switch to more video heavy consumption. With over 44.84 million active users in the UK, it's no secret that advertisers are starting to spend more than ever before on video advertising to get us to buy. In fac,t they spend on average £2.6 billion a year on it.
You can get in on the action too, and you don't need a massive ad spend to do so.
Planning and preparing to shoot your video
I can't stress this enough, a simple talking head video is 70% planning and performance, 20% environment and lighting, and just 10% shooting, equipment, etc.
Why? Good, engaging talking head content is if nothing else story telling. It doesn't matter where you are or when it's told, a well-performed story will stick with you.
This is also true for well made talking head videos, as they can be engaging and packed with different emotions. So get your storytelling hat on, we're about to make a movie.
Planning and preparing to shoot your video - continued
Right, so we're going to make a video, and you're probably going to use your phone and whatever else you have at your disposal. I've listed everything you should consider when setting up to make your own video. Sure, it's a fairly long list, but once you've cracked it the first time it'll form your shooting approach for all your future shoots.
Scripting
This is a key part - around 70% of the process. Grab some paper and a pen to start to create your script as we go.
Subject
The subject of your video is crucial. What's your video about? Keep it simple! No-one likes a video that goes on and on... If you have a lot to say, think about splitting it into a few shorter videos. Just jot down some bullet points about the subject area. Don't go into detailed writing just yet.
Your goal
What's the goal of the video? What would you like your viewers to do when they've watched it? It's easy to lose sight of the goal before you even start, so work this out in advance. This is key as it'll form your Call to Action (the CTA) at the end of the video. The CTA is where you can be a bit greedy and it really gives value for you as the creator of the content. Here's an easy formula to work this out:
Pick from one of the following things you'd like to achieve by making your video:
For example, if you're looking to drive traffic, finish your video by saying something like: 'Click the link to get involved; can't wait to see you there.'
OK, so it might seem a back-to-front way of writing a script, but often the end of your video is the most important as it's time to make the viewing audience do what you'd like them to do. I often find it's better in these situations to start at the end and work back.
Getting started
Once you have these key elements sorted, you should have a clear subject for your script and also a clear call to action.
It's time to get to work writing your script. Remember to keep it bite-sized as most people are always in a rush and don't have time to sit through lots of content.
Remember also that people are nosey. Increase their interest and engagement by showing them how your business runs. Let them come in the back door and see things that the average customer wouldn't.
Prepare what you want to say and avoid waffling. Again, keep it simple as this is where you want to think about who is going to view the video, or moreover who do you want to view the video? Adapt your language to suit them.
Ready? Let's go!
Your hook
Once you have the bulk of your script written you should have a brief story or block of text telling the viewer something 'they simply have to know!' and a simple Call to Action at the end. Now it's time to add the hook. Although it might be, slightly cheesy, the hook will bring a lot more viewers in and help you retain them for that all important Call to Action. A hook is a simple one liner the goal of which is to get someone's attention. Phrases such as 'Hi, I'd really like to tell you something' or 'Did you know....?' can be effective so you should always include one.
Finishing up
So now you have a water tight script ready for a social media video, make sure you stay tuned for our next blog where we'll look and hot tips for delivering your best performance along with some invaluable shooting tips and tricks.
Cookie Cut Media is an established video production company in Cambridge offering promotional videos, talking heads, green screen and films and documentaries. If you're considering video for your business and would welcome the support of an award-winning videographer, why not contact us for an initial discussion?
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