The rise in video consumption does not look like it will slow down anytime soon. YouTube reports a 100% rise in mobile video consumption each year, with high engagement levels reported across all types of sites that integrate video. Any business that doesn’t have a video strategy risks being left behind. Thankfully, creating and promoting quality videos has become accessible, regardless of your technical or creative expertise. The following methods all offer a way for businesses to begin using video effectively within their promotional plans.
Product Demonstration Videos
Detailed descriptions are important in the sales process, but certain sections of your audience won’t buy without watching a video. A product demonstration lets people see the intricacies of an item, while also working as an additional sales mechanism.
Tutorial Videos
Most industries have various questions that people constantly want answered. Creating tutorials can provide an entry point for prospects, allowing you to move them into a sales funnel. If viewers benefit from the content, they will likely have a better opinion of your brand.
Webinars
Webinars are similar to tutorials, but they are usually performed live. Having the attention of a group of viewers can be a powerful thing, with the ability to both help people and promote your products. A webinar is typically informal, so you can also build a relationship with your attendees.
Live Streaming
Live streaming offers the chance to gather social media followers together. A typical live stream will be informal, but you can still provide useful information. Viewers will add their own comments, enabling you to answer questions and engage with the community.
Social Media Videos
Sites like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram allow you to add videos to your feed. If you have a large following, videos can often be viewed by more people than would have viewed a banner ad. Social media is not the place for long videos, though, so think of creative ways to convey information in a short space of time.
Expert Interviews
Interviewing experts is a way to provide informative content to viewers. The expert benefits from increased exposure, while your business gains quality content and an association with a qualified person. An interview could also be framed as a chat between two experts, positioning the business owner in the same light.
Behind the Scenes
A video taking viewers behind the scenes of your operations can help give a business some personality. The video could involve a tour of the offices or manufacturing facilities, providing additional credibility and trust. You could also introduce various staff members to increase the bond between business and customer.
Whiteboard Instruction
A whiteboard instruction video is similar to a tutorial, but offers a different visual effect. Whiteboard videos were a difficult proposition in the recent past, but there are now various software solutions that simplify the process. A whiteboard video can convey information in a clear manner, while also maintaining the interest of the viewer.
Animation
Many people assume animated videos will be too expensive for their budget. It is possible, though, to create quality animated videos without too much outlay. Outsourcing the work or using video software can lead to fairly simple animations that help tell a story or convey some information. A complex animation might not be necessary to get noticed on YouTube and social media.
Businesses across all industries can find opportunities to integrate video into their marketing plans. E-commerce stores can enhance their site by providing product showcase videos. App developers can offer walk-through videos of all the main features. Additionally, it is often possible to reduce refunds using handy tutorials and guides that offer a better customer experience. Online video is not going anywhere, so it is worthwhile investing in video marketing to improve and compliment the products and services you are currently creating.