Video presentations are a reliable way to connect with your community. They are also a necessity for most entrepreneurs. The statistics on the power of video have been strong for several years.
According to Sprout Social, video still ranks number one at 72% among all the ways to engage your audience. This ranking is a combination of prerecorded and live. Even separated, prerecorded video ranks second and only after images.
Take a moment to consider your own viewing behavior on social media. This can be on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn or other platform. I know I am more likely to look at post with a video. Think about how easy it is to get lost in a sea of videos on YouTube.
If you haven’t considered video before, you should start. Even if you are someone who isn’t too keen on recording yourself on camera, fear not! There is more than one way to make a video.
In this post, I highlight three ways to create video presentations. Which method you chose will depend on several things. Including, how much time you have and your comfort level with different technology and software. The good news is you already know how to do at least one of the options.
Slides Converted to Video Presentations
If you have a presentation editing software, you can create this type of video with ease. Most people have Keynote (Mac) or PowerPoint (Windows/Mac). But, there are many options; even online like Google Slides. This is one of the quickest ways to create a video. You don't even need any fancy equipment or high-end video editing software.
With this method, you can create a video presentation with still images, text, voice over narration, and music.
After you’ve created a slide deck, all you do is save or export as a movie (view this post for a quick how to).
The software converts you slide deck a .mp4 file. Then you upload to YouTube or another video hosting platform. An added bonus is most software keeps slide transitions and animations as part of the video.
Animated Video Presentations
Animations are fun and a unique way to create video. They can be a powerful way to attract and connect with your audience. And allow you to take into your creative side.
Most people avoid animation. They have visions of animation from major studios like Pixar, Disney, and Dreamworks. Fortunately, there are several free options available. One or more will most likely fit your skill set and needs. Don't think you have to be an animation master.
It is important to set realistic expectations. Most likely it will take you a bit longer to create an animation. You need to allow time for the learning curve with the software. Additionally, set aside time for pre-planning like writing a script and storyboarding. While you may be inclined to jump in and play around, some pre-planning does save time in the long run.
Once you’ve completed the animation, it is easy to share on your social media networks or embed on your website. If you find animation is your new go-to method, explore the fee-based options of the tools you like best.
Recorded/Talking Head Video Presentation
The recorded/talking head video is by far the most common type of video on the web. They can range from on-the-fly/in the moment to highly produced video. Even though these are quite common, they still rank high for engagement.
Our smartphones are handy for recording video the action around us or ourselves. They make it easier than ever to record, edit, and upload to YouTube or share on other platforms.
Other ways you can record is with a webcam or the video setting of a DSLR camera. If you are getting started with recording video don’t get hung up with which tech to have or buy.
Your smartphone has a great camera so start with that. If you are itching to get some new tech, check out this post from Wistia. It highlights options for those getting started and on a budget to high-end gear.
When creating a prerecorded video presentation give yourself plenty of time to practice. Don’t go down the perfection rabbit hole. Getting something done and out there is better than not doing anything. The more you do video the better you become.
Wrap Up
Video is here to stay. As an entrepreneur, look at using video presentations to engage your audience. My three recommends are options to help you get started now. You already have most of the equipment you need like a smartphone and computer.
Remember, there isn’t a right or wrong way to create video. What is important is to start creating, practicing, and sharing. Before you know it creating video will become an easy, natural way to convey your message and connect with your audience.
Leave a comment and share how you use video in your business. What has been most successful in engaging your audience?
