Tips for Using Video in Your Content Marketing Effort
We have given you a lot of tips and tricks over the last two years about how to illustrate your content marketing effort more effectively through efficient writing techniques. But, just because you write it doesn’t mean your customers will read all the great things you have to say. Maybe they don’t have time, maybe they prefer to hear about something versus reading about it or maybe they prefer a more visual experience?
Whatever the case, it’s important to remember that your customers are looking for a mix in your content marketing efforts.
One of the most popular formats these days is video. Let’s face it: Your customers are online watching videos. Adding video to your content marketing mix increases the likelihood that they are online watching YOUR videos.
Videos are great for adding the “wow” factor to your content marketing efforts. They also help put a face to your brand. And, they increase your brand’s viral activity — if it’s good content, it’s going to get shared. A lot. Who knows, your video could become the next big Internet sensation! It happens every day.
So, if you’re thinking of incorporating video into your content marketing mix but feeling a bit overwhelmed by it all, here are some tips to help get you going:
Apply the KISS principle — keep it short and simple. The longer or more complex the video is the more likely viewers will drop off before it’s over. The optimal viewing time is 2-3 minutes, especially for people watching from mobile devices. This length of time can be consumed quickly and easily, without draining too much battery life.
Explain what you are doing. Tell viewers what they can expect to learn in the video and why it’s important. Make sure you have your introduction, conflict, climax and resolution (all the elements of a great story) outlined and then follow that script. Don’t stray from the main points you want to highlight in the video.
Add value. Offer your audience something in return for their time watching the video. Maybe it’s a great story. Maybe it’s information on how to solve a business challenge. Maybe it’s a viewer’s only reward, like a discount code or a free giveaway. Whatever it is, give them a reason to watch!
Create an interactive experience. You want viewers to remember your video, and to do that, you have to make it memorable. Don’t just film someone sitting behind a desk talking to the camera. That’s boring. Pick a visually appealing background. Encourage your presenter to move around a bit and use visual and/or audio aids. Showcase your brand’s personality. Also, be sure to include a call-to-action and invite viewers to take additional steps (visit your company’s website) to find out more information.
Make sure your video can easily be found and shared. Leverage popular platforms like YouTube to optimize your video SEO. And, use metadata and captions/subtitles to increase the viewers’ chances of finding the content in the right context.
There’s so much more to think about. We know that, and we’re not claiming to be experts. That said, we do want to pass on what we know so we cover this topic more in the future. In the meantime, let us know if you have any questions. We’re here to help!