If you want to build credibility and demand for your solutions, you need to be streaming live video regularly.
Everything is Going Live
With the advent of Periscope, Facebook Live, and others, it’s becoming increasingly obvious that the future of social media and online marketing in general is live video. Yes, you’re quote memes will still get shared, and your poll questions will still build engagement, but if you want to reach a whole new level of awesomeness for your brand, live video has what you’re after.
And we’re not just talking video content. Video is good, but live video is better. If you don’t believe me, check out these benefits live video can offer over pre-recorded content.
- Better Engagement: video engagement is better than other content forms, but pre-recorded still doesn’t get the engagement that you can get with something that’s “live” and in the moment.
- Less Effort: Live video doesn’t take much production effort; there’s really no such thing as post production when you do live streams.
- Cutting Edge: Most people haven’t caught onto this marketing technique yet – not only does this make you look current and trendy, but it allows you to capitalize on that vacuum and make a bigger splash.
- Interactive: Live video is, by nature, super interactive. Think about it: what’s funnier, a recording of someone telling jokes or a stand-up comedian interacting with an audience? The energy is completely different with live video.
And it’s this interactive quality that capitalizes on how people are beginning to consumer media. Rather than be told what’s what, today’s media consumer wants to be part of the experience. This is why Jon Cramer called Facebook Live “interactive TV” today:
How to Make Live Video Work for You
There’s no need to build a professional video studio just to do live video. You can make this work for you and your budget. Heck, with some platforms, you can just shoot with your phone. But if you want to take your game up a notch, here are a few tips for making your videos a bit more professional and effective.
- Use good lighting; sunlight is the best, providing it isn’t directly behind you.
- Make sure you are centered in the shot.
- If shooting from a laptop, use headphones to avoid any relay/echo issues.
- Wear solids. Tiny stripes or interesting patterns can translate into psychedelic effects you probably don’t want on screen.
- Look directly into the camera. It might feel weird, especially if you are reading notes, but make an effort to look your viewers in the eye.
- Avoid glare by wearing contacts instead of glasses. Besides, your viewers will connect more if they can easily see your eyes.
If you haven’t tried live video yet, jump in and get your feet wet. There’s really no wrong way of doing it. Your viewers will engage with you more and keep coming back for your thought leadership.
Let me know in the comments below if you have any additional tips, tricks, or questions!
