Video marketing is the bees knees. In the past, it’s been associated with marketing campaigns for established companies, rather than start-ups or small and medium sized businesses (often called SMB’s or SME’s). You had to have really “made it” before you had the money to throw at a promotional video or advertisement.
Not anymore though! Video content has become more accessible than ever. Tech like SoapBox by Wistia (that link is a great place to start, by the way!) has made it easier than ever to make high-quality, professional videos, no matter how experienced you are. What’s more, it doesn’t have to be expensive.
There’s no excuse!
Video is one of the most profitable and versatile additions to your marketing toolbox. They’re easier to digest than a blog, more informative than a picture and a lot of fun for people watching.
Wave goodbye to TV! Different channels for video
One of the first things to think about before going ahead and filming a marketing video is how people will see it. Websites, blogs, YouTube and (especially) social media are great places to start.
One thing you should know is that Google love videos. In fact, you’re 53x more likely to show up first on Google if you have a video on your website. Statistics never lie! Since Google bought out YouTube, videos on your website carry significantly more weight.
The same logic goes for blogging. Video tutorials and summaries can boost readership and shares – plus they’re super-easy to embed.
The visual nature of Instagram makes it the perfect place to create videos that show off your brand. IGTV and Instagram stories make it easier than ever to create a video for followers of your brand to see and interact with – all it takes is your smartphone camera!
Why YOU should be the star of the show
We love to root for entrepreneurs. They’re associated with endless creativity – underdogs, for whom putting their life and soul into a business is all in a day’s work. Unlike big businesses and brands, people tend to see themselves in an entrepreneur.
So who better to be the star of your brand’s video… Than you?
Some of the best marketing videos feature the very entrepreneurs who make it happen. If you need inspiration, head over to KickStarter or IndieGoGo – both popular platforms for crowdfunding business ideas. Some of the most successful pitches feature videos of the entrepreneur behind them, just like this one:
Or how about this Dutch optician, who created an entire rap video to promote eyewear and his store:
Benefits of video content
Better engagement. Inspiring trust. Boosted sales, thorough explanations, social media shares and increased popularity among mobile users. We could go on, but you get the picture!
Videos are probably the number one way to engage prospective customers and leads in the 21st century. Even small brands are taking advantage of how easy and popular video marketing is – so by neglecting videos, you could be falling behind.
Great video content is the best thing your customers to explain or show off the ins-and-outs of the product and service you offer. It’s also the most effective way for them to meet you without actually meeting you. Need more convincing? Here’s a handy infographic with some persuasive statistics.
Top tips for your first marketing video
Ready for video content to become your favourite weapon in the marketing arsenal? Here’s a checklist that’ll get you on your way to creating your first marketing video…
- Get some inspiration. There’s an endless supply of video content out there. You don’t need a massive budget to make an impact. Check out how similar brands to yours leverage video content – it’ll get the creative juices flowing.
- Keep it short and sweet. Your first video doesn’t have to produce shockwaves. Some of the best marketing videos are just subtly witty or direct and informative. If you’re trying too hard, it’ll show – so keep it simple.
- Work around the fear. Not everyone is totally comfortable on video. If being on camera isn’t your thing, find ways to make it easier for yourself. You don’t necessarily need to be speaking, and if you mess up you can always just start again! Your video doesn’t need to be oscar-worthy – it just has to capture people’s interest.
- Aim for high quality. Nowadays you don’t need the latest equipment to shoot a great video. That being said, putting out poor quality footage won’t reflect well on your brand. Make sure you aim for a sharp picture and decent sound at the very minimum – if possible try and use a tripod to make sure your video isn’t shaky.
Feeling suitably inspired? We’d love to hear about your marketing videos or even get a sneak peek! Share them with the hashtag #EmbrosaEverywhere along with any questions!
About Embrosa
Embrosa is a Dutch company which creates technical solutions to give local entrepreneurs more marketing power. They started in 2017 in The Netherlands with the Embrosa app containing ready-made social media messages. Download their new app Embrosa Pics (Google Play / App Store): an app filled with professional visuals from optical brands. Opticians can download the visuals and use them for their online and offline marketing. Of course TEF is shining also in this new app, check it out!
Brands: add your marketingcontent for free. Send an email to our chief content Myrthe: content@embrosa.com. Get in contact with marketing girl Marieke about press and marketing questions: marieke@embrosa.com and let ceo/sales Melanie know if you want info about advertising: melanie@embrosa.com.
