Video can be a great way to market your products and services, but it can also be a huge waste of time.
I would love to get your feedback on video for marketing and learning.
Watch this short video to find out the pros and cons, how to do video for free and then leave your comments below.
Comments encouraged!
I’m just getting started in business and in the process of setting up my new site and tranferring old posts over to it, but I love video. I like seeing people do the task, not just reading what to do. I have done several video’s teaching others, sometimes I share my screen, sometimes I talk into the camera. I get more engagement and feedback from these than when I write something in my blog.
I think it is easier for people to get a feel for who I am and what I mean when using video than writing it, or even using audio.
Thanks for your input Robin. You are so correct when you say it is easier for people to get a feel for who you are. The more we are ourselves in the videos we do the more people feel like they know us. The more they know us the better. It’s all about building our relationships with a high level of authenticity.
Hi Kathleen,
After a ‘detour’ because of health issues I am stepping back into my work more fully, playing a bit of catch up. I have one question. Do you think it is optimum to have a ‘clip on’ microphone, or do you think it works well enough without one? I know the FLIP does not have a port for an external mic. Does the Zi8?
Also, I have an unrelated question. I have several printed versions of several manuscripts I would love to re-work and re-purpose, but am without easy access to the external hard drive on which the documents are stored. I was hoping you might be able to suggest the best way I might get these documents scanned and digital again in an editable format? I have a Mac. Would it be worth it to purchase a version of a program like ReadIris, or if that would be too tedious, is there an quicker bulk way to have these documents scanned and transformed into an editable digital format again?
The Zi8 does have a port but I have yet to find a lapel mic I like for the Zi8. I have been asking others in various locations and don’t have any answers. So if someone reading this does, please let us know. I have not used a mic other than the Zi8 built in. There are mixed reviews on this. Most people seem to think the sound is okay, but alas, a few say, “External Mic.” If I could find one that has great sound I would get it in a heartbeat.
I do not have an answer to your second question. Perhaps again, someone reading this does.
I do hope your health continues to improve.
Kathleen (and others),
I love using video and create not only for my business but for clients.
I have the Kodak zi8 and the microphone that was recommended to me is the Audio-Technica ATR3350 lavalier mic. See it here on Amazon…under $30 http://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-ATR-3350-Omnidirectional-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B002HJ9PTO/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1330562179&sr=8-3
A few tips:
Buy additional batteries (it takes the watch kind) since you’ll always want fresh ones on hand.
The mic comes with very little instruction. There are videos on YT (where else:)?) on how to connect this to your zi8 and optimize the use.
Note that this is a wired mic (not wireless).
One great tip I found is to place moleskin around the mic and adhere it under your shirt, collar, or blouse with tape. This not only keeps it in place (not visible) but avoids any scratching noises as fabrics rub against the mic.
Hope this is helpful!
I have done this with clients with great success.
Thank you for your valuable insights Diana. Much appreciated.
I use both the Kodak zi8 for talking head/demo/info and then Powerpoint/Keynote narrated slides. I use the audio technica with the zi8 and it works great…but is a hassle having the cord. These need some editing to make them flow a bit better. I also use an external mic for the narrated slides and love my iMovie for making it really easy to edit and get the timing right. The external mic for the narrated slides gives a better sound, especially when I use my home made fleece “sound booth” in a room that is really (sound) bright.
Love your very systematic approach Kathleen. I use a lot of video in my business and a few months ago replaced my weekly newsletter, which I had produced weekly for 3 years with a weekly 3 minute video called “Wonderful Web TV”. I email this to my list, add it to my blog and syndicate to itunes. The reason I changed? In the last 12 months I’ve noticed people want short and sweet and want to feel a closer connection with the people they follow. I have no doubt social media has been a big reason for the change in what people want and how they want to communicate. The response to my weekly videos has been brilliant. People tell me they love their Monday morning dose of “marketing, mindset and motivation” and I have lost count of the number of times new customers email me to say they bought because they felt as if they already knew me so well and they could trust me. This is the power of video. Another huge benefit for me is time. I shoot 2 months of videos in an hour or so, then my team schedules the blog posts and email broadcast months in advance. Then I can get on with creating new programs and helping my customers. Thanks for a great video Kathleen.
I am one of your Monday Morning fans. i love Wonderful Web TV and look forward to your tip in my inbox. You have done a great job producing these and I can see why your market is so keen on this with you.
Thanks for this discussion, Kathleen. I have used video in a very limited way so far. I plan to use it more, however.
Personally, I don’t like video as much as being able to read transcripts when I go to learn about something. Video takes way too much time! I can scan written material, underline or highlight for later reference. I can get about twice as much material digested in the same amount of time, transcript to video.
We live in a “movie culture”. I have not participated for a few years, because I’m busy doing things I love! I think video is great for the movie culture–just doesn’t fit what I seek right now.
Thanks for your insights Ilene. It’s nice to read about your learning style and why video is not your first choice. I appreciate your comments.
I like video and I like written transcripts. I am a visual learner and like to read/highlight. Video does take a bit more time so giving transcripts with video could be a real advantage.
And of course, Kathleen, you are authentic and easy on camera. Not so for many people which is what you are addressing here.
Net/Net – everyone learns and receives info differently, and video is certainly only going to get bigger.
Kathleen –
First off, I do enjoy your teaching videos. I love your energy and like how they are very targeted and focused. I also like the length because I can go grab, consume and implement fast! That being said, I find that I have a varied response to video overall.
– Video sales letters generally don’t work well for me. They are long and I end up tuning them out and thinking, I’d rather read the sales letter because that would be faster.
– There are some topics that I enjoy watching on video because the visual element adds to the learning, but some videos (talking heads) not so much. I’d rather have the audio that I could load up on my iPod and listen to where ever I want vs being stuck to my monitor.
I’m curious why you don’t include the iPhone4 in your mix of cameras. I have found it to be easier to use than my flip and you can even edit right on the phone.
You have given me a well-needed kick in the behind to go back and do some more videos for my business. Thanks! I also appreciate your suggestion of understanding what my market wants for learning. I feel a survey coming on.
To your outstanding success!
Stephanie
Thanks for your comments and insights Stephanie. Oh my, on the IPhone4 – it’s something I have yet to delve into so that would be the reason for not including yet. Heck, I just got my IPad and the IPhone is next.
Kathleen,
Great video! I love that it’s short and under 10 min! Those are the best videos.
Yes, I use video extensively in my marketing. I do live action videos, and I do screen cam videos with camtasiaa. I find that using video in my marketing very effective, because folks get to know me better that way.
And I like using screen flow software (camtasia) because some people learn better watching me on the screen moving my mouse (as I teach technology)
I love that you reminded us that we can do this all for free!
I have a Zi8 AND a flip video, and I prefer the flip video. Much easier to use.
-Christina Hills
Thanks so much for your input Christina. I have seen some of your incredibly creative videos and love them. The thing I really like about the Zi8 is the remote. If not for the remote I would still be an avid Flipper. 🙂
You sold me on video! Thank you for concrete technical tips on what one can buy. It’s hard to believe that there are only 2 choices…wiill look for the Kodak but thought they are going out of business.
Also, Kathleen, PLEASE invest in some really good markers for your whiteboard! It’s frustrating when we can’t read what you’re writing.
Thank you for a great ride on the learning curve!!
Mary Ellen
Hi Mary Ellen. There are more than two choices. I just used these two to show how simple it really is. With IPhones you have that option too. Of course, there are the very high end choices but it’s not necessary to spend a lot of money to get our message out to market.
Great post, Kathleen. Video is huge! I can think of two guys right off the bat who have become #1 New York Times Bestselling authors in large part due to video – Gary Vaynerchuk and Brendon Burchard. In my market I noticed an immediate spike in sales conversions when I went to video sales letters. We are also incorporating webcasting into our business and because people can see my face they outsell webinars 3 to 1. Video ROCKS!
So true Susan. Brendon and Gary have shot sales through the roof with video. Not only that but what they created on the back end which was a huge benefit to their markets. I know Brendon is a huge proponent of serving our market in many different ways with video definitely being near the top. Thanks for your comments and rock on!
ps. I have seen you on video and you definitely know how to get the message across in a fun, efficient and content driven way.
Great content, Kathleen! And I think that is the key to video. I’ve been toying with the idea of vido in my market, but my struggle is exactly what you’ve mastered – Content.
When I watch your video, I always learn – as a marketer turned author – your videos help me to bridge my two worlds.
However, I’ve also spent time watching video that leaves me wanting my 3 minutes back in my chaotic day, and then unsubscribing to the owner’s site. I see an abuse of people rushing to get the content live and they forget to include …Content and Value.
Still on the fence in the Toad Kingdom – I know video will enhance my platform, but I heisitate and likely overthink what goes in. Thanks so much for sharing – very helpful
Thanks so much Heidi. As with anything, the more we do it the more we feel comfortable with it. I have had some amazing mentors, one being Brendon Burchard. He is a master at video and with his simple approach I was able to emulate much of what he recommended. Glad you enjoyed the videos and I look forward to seeing yours.
I agree whole heartedly Kathleen.
I use videos all the time in my business and I recommend that all my clients learn to get comfortable with video ASAP. For me, the most important reason is that it allows me to develop a relationship with people faster than is possible using just the written word.
On the Internet, before a person feels comfortable about doing business with you, they must fell comfortable about who you are and what you stand for so using video can speed up that process. I think it is easier to get to know someone who I can see and hear talking.
This means you can serve more people that you are meant to serve faster with video.
Also, if you teach how to do anything, video works better than any explanation for most people. It is just easier to learn how to do something by watching someone go through the steps of the process than it is to try and follow written instructions.
Thanks for your insights Lauren. I agree 100% about building relationships with video. When people can see us and see our personality we tend to build trust faster than trying to do so in other ways. And yes, it is about serving our market.
As far as using it, I happened to see a great deal of the day recently on a TV show and was able to pick up the KodakPlaytouch very inexpensively. It appears to be the next generation of the Zi8 you like so I’m hoping that’s the case. Hope to test it out in the near future.
With regard to how I like to learn, as a few others have said, it kind of depends. There are times when I’ve got a few minutes to watch a short video, and times when I can watch something longer like those Brendon B usually does. However, I very much appreciate having transcripts as well so that I can quickly skim and/or save for later if that’s the time I have.
Talking about time, one of my biggest pet peeves by far about video training or marketing is when the producer does not indicate how long it’s going to be. I think it’s just plain rude and disrespectful to expect someone to guess, especially if it’s more than 5 minutes or so. It’s not like it’s hard to do, even if there isn’t a timer that shows automatically like in YouTube. If I have time, and you’ve caught my interest, I’ll gladly watch, but start off on the right foot by not assuming I have all the time in the world to give to you and your video.
While I’m the subject of time, the other thing that bugs me is having no way to review/go back without starting over. Again, do people think that we are always able to give our undivided attention? Even if we intend to, the phone may ring or a family member may need us. Again, I think it’s just common courtesy.
OK, guess that’s it for the soapbox 🙂 I’d be interested in knowing if anyone else feels this way.
One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not whether YOU like to do video, but whether your audience WANTS video. What you want and are comfortable with is irrelevant if you want to sell your books and products. I’ve done informal surveys asking about video vs. written text and while there’s always a mix of responses, more and more people want video. You build rapport with your audience faster, you can teach more complex ideas, especially for how-to videos, and it’s been shown for several years now that the number of people watching video is on the rise. Here’s a link to ComScore’s ranking of video in December 2011:
http://www.comscore.com/Press_Events/Press_Releases/2012/1/comScore_Releases_December_2011_U.S._Online_Video_Rankings
“182 million U.S. Internet users watched online video content in December for an average of 23.2 hours per viewer. The total U.S. Internet audience viewed 43.5 billion videos.”
For authors, I think it’s important to incorporate video into the marketing mix: book trailers, author readings, invitations to get on your list to get updates, Q&A, live video presentations, etc. It’s not all or nothing, but a mix of everything so you can reach people with different learning modalities.
Great subject, Kathleen!
Yes Cheryl, I agree that videos should let you know up front about how long they are and they should allow you to stop and start them over if necessary. Then if the video is too long, I can schedule time to watch it later. I actually have an email folder where I put longer videos from mentors I respect like Kathleen Gage or Brendon Burchard.
It also goes without saying they SHOULD NOT start automatically. That is a huge pet peeve of mine and if it happens I immediately delete the email it came in.
I forgot about that one Lauren, I don’t care for the auto play feature either. I’m guessing that strategy is a toss up between ticking off some and trying to catch other’s attention.
Studies have shown that the auto play is very effective. As Denise Wakeman explained very well, “it’s not whether YOU like to do video, but whether your audience WANTS video. What you want and are comfortable with is irrelevant if you want to sell your books and products.” The fact is, if we are doing something based on what we like and not taking our market into consideration we are missing the boat.
Many of the top marketers use auto play and they say (their millions each year attest to this) that the auto play does work in some markets. As with anything, we must do what the majority of the market (our market) likes as long as it is congruent with our message and our values.
I agree on the auto start. But if it’s a course that I’ve paid for that has
multiple videos in a module it’s nice to have the autoplay feature where when one video stops, the next one in the module starts. It beats having to go back to the link page to start the next vid.
Great topic! I love video especially when I have to learn something technical, I much prefer to watch than have to read it, show me once and I have it:) Couple comments on watching the video. If it has been published properly it should have a bar at the bottom that one, tells you how long the video goes for and two, the capability to pause and resume when needed.
What I have found is to provide all mediums for content. Since everyone is different in how they assimilate information. You have visual, audio and kinesthetic people. So it makes sense in trainings to provide:
Videos
Audios
Learning Guides
Transcripts
and Power points.
Of course it is based on whether it is a paid program or free program as it cost to have the information converted into different formats. Freebies just a video. Paid all of the above. Just my two cents
So true Karen. There is an investment in converting to transcripts, learning guides, etc. We must take all this into consideration.
Kathleen, I think video is a good tool but the key is still in the promotion. I have over 100 videos on 2 channels and their views etc are still minimal. It is concerning. While I am not the most photogenic, I have no problem getting in front of the camera and will talk on just about anything. I do find the editing a real challenge though. and using the free programs or even Screenomatic which I use with PowerPoint and my computer can be a challenge to edit as the tool is not totally responsive. I have tried to use Camtasia and again easy to use but the editing was challenging. I have not bought it.
Bottom line, I like video, prefer interactivity of teleseminars/webinars and will be trying hangouts this week as a learning tool/Q&A
Roberta, you hit the nail on the head with your comment about promotions. This is the missing link for so many people. Years ago I was in broadcast media. I worked in both production and sales. So often businesses would say they didn’t have a budget or time to market and promote and yet, the time they finally got off their backside to do so was when they were closing their doors and would do a major campaign to get folks in for the closeout sale.
Often the comment was, “If I would have had this much business all along I wouldn’t need to close my doors.”
The reality is if they would have promoted all along they likely would not have had to close their doors.
No matter who we are, no matter what we create, no matter who are market is….we MUST promote.
Check out my free video series on Product Creation. In Video II you will learn about marketing. And it’s FREE. Oy vey. I already said that. http://www.kathleengagetrains.com/
RIght now I don’t use video b/c of the learning curve. I just don’t know how to edit and upload them. I do plan to start using video, though.
As to learning from video. It depends. I recently took a course that had 6 modules and each module had at a minimum 15 videos, anywhere from 6-15 mins long. It took a loooong time to go through them. One thing I wish is that the teacher had given a little blurb about eachvideo so I can go back and find the info I’m looking for. I did watch nearly all of them and now, I’m using the PDF handouts to refresh my knowledge or search for something specific.
Bottom line: If I take a course and it’s strictly on video I wouldn’t like that. I like to have the pdf’s of the lessons for quick reference.
Great feedback Elizabeth. I actually have been a fan of Brendon Burchard, Jeff Walker and Jeff Johnson for quite some time. All use long videos and my learning style is such that I loved it. I would simply pause when I needed a break and come back to where I left of. With the increase in revenues from what I learned from all of them, it was worth the effort. That’s my experience and doesn’t mean that would work for everyone. I do like adding in PDFs and transcripts for those who get my paid programs (in most cases I add in transcripts) as it takes care of the many learning styles. We even convert the videos into MP3s so those who only want to listen can do that too.
I really like videos that I can look at on my own time. I learn best that way and like the short ones.
The advent of video is wrecking my pajama job – now I have to get dressed and comb my hair? LOL!
LOLOLOL Now that’s one reason never to do video. You hit the nail on the head with this reason Elizabeth.
Thanks. I do like your concise videos. But I also like to be in control:
Videos and audios have to be paced to suit the whole audience. So, some can feel too slow, especially if you already know part of the info; Other times, new info. can flash by too quickly. I also like something to keep for future study and to jog my memory.
I like to know the length of a video and to have access to the controls, especially the pause control. Some people hide the controls behind styling; some show no indication of length or position in the video.
Videos in emails fail completely: All my email and webmail client programs are set to ignore images and videos.
Love your video! Love video in general. I think it is an excellent way to reach people and to have them “get to know” you. Everyone talks about the “know, like and trust” factor. I’ve seen that video excellerates it. As a virtual assistant and online business manager, I can say that the clients I work with who are using video are getting far more opt-ins for free stuff when it includes video than when it doesn’t.
I believe this is an important topic for a number of reasons but primarily because I think we’re all seeing a return to a need for “high touch” in all of our “high tech” online world. It’s so much easier to create a bond and frankly believability when there is a visual connection with someone. Having said that, I also believe that’s why it can be a bit intimidating. Video is a big word to only have five letters… I was glad that you at least started to break down the kinds of videos that can be made. I believe that training needs to start there. What are you trying to do with the audience? Let that drive the RIGHT kind of video that will best communicate that message. Sometimes it’s a simple webcam message – very personal. Sometimes it’s as you’ve done here where there is some physical action being videoed. Others can be via Camtasia or other screen capture video capability. I’ve also seen very impressive power point conversions with those tools – particularly for inspirational messages. As with anything in our business strategy and marketing, we have to know our strategic intention for the tool and let that guide us. As always, you help us value progress over perfection and just get started! Thanks, Kathleen!
You are so correct on the need to return to high touch. Videos do give us more of a feeling of being right there with others. Thanks for your comments Kathi. Very much appreciated.
Hi Kathleen, I first came across your work about 3 years ago and bought an ebook from you I remember you were thinking of doing a marathon or triathlon at the time but ran into problems. Did you ever get that checked off the bucket list?
I’ve dabbled in video but am committing to using it more for products as well as marketing. So I appreciate your information.
I’m a personal trainer, triathlon coach. and the author of Exercising Values:Family Fitness with a Character Emphasis. So naturally I’m hoping you finished your race and have plans for more. Take care.
Great memory Pam. The last few years have been challenging to say the least. I broke my ankle, my dad was diagnosed with cancer and passed away four weeks later, my mom became very ill, I became one of her primary caretakers and she passed on a little over two months ago. I recently set the goal to again go for a marathon doing power walking. I have been training and plan to do one in the spring.
Video is great for products, marketing and working one on one with clients when you have specific training to do with them. I love video and the more I do it the more I love it.
So sorry to hear of all your struggles and losses and admire the way you continue to serve. BTW Power walking is hard!
Thanks Pam. I love power walking. I feel so em-“powered”.
I have a love hate relationship with video. I have all the equipment, have made a lot of videos with narrated power points and with my trusty Zi8 and Audio Technica mic. I have posted them on three different you tube channels and have used them as a “free resource with sign up” on one of my web sites.
What makes me nutso is what Elizabeth said: having to get dressed up. (but I do wear my comfy pants below the camera line) But more seriously it’s my own perfectionism, which means I sometimes have to do it three or four times before I am satisfied with how the recording went. Or what I looked like.
That being said, I love being on a Mac for doing video, iMovie is great for editing and it posts directly to YouTube, and also lets me use the Amazon player software so I can host my videos on Amazon and not have to use the space on my own web hosting site. The players also let you add an auto or chosen redirect after the video is finished.
More vids soon, Our remodel is finally done and includes a new video studio set up for me!
Here’s an insight into not being a perfectionist. If you were in front of a live group would you be able to stop and start? Nope! Imagine you are in front of a live group and go with it. You will save a lot of time, frustration and heartache.
And… dress as you not who you think folks want you to be. Be watching for the one I do when I’m out with the horses and on the tractor. If the darned rain would stop I could do it now. But, will wait until the weather cooperates. 🙂
I think that video is good as long as you know how to apply it. I am new but believe that learning new tools and techniques is helpful!
Great info…real concise and to the point. I’m inspired.
I would WAY more prefer to watch a powerpoint presentation than watch a person — any person — stand/sit there and speak.
My second choice (after a powerpoint) would be an audi-only.
That way, I can learn more thoroughly.
As for a person actually being IN the training video, here are the types of videos I would rather see a person than a powerpoint: things that involve showing “how” such as cooking, cutting pets’ nails, clipping a rose bush back, watercolor painting, etc..
Anything else, I give it a miss; even if it’s the person sitting/standing there reading the powerpoint info, it just seems to me like more fluff than a powerpoint (or even an audio where I can take notes while I’m keeping an eye on my little ones) .
Thanks for your input Omri. Always great to get many different perspectives.
Kathleen,
Since you asked for comments, I’ll weigh in.Unless I video has something I need to see graphically (like how to cut the shank on my pointe shoes), I HATE videos. One, if it contains info I need to remember, I need to take notes, which means typing fast enough to keep up rather than easily highlighting material. Two, video takes more time than reading through info. three, with written content, I can go right to the info I need. With a video, I have to watch the whole thing. Four, I usually don’t pay full attention to a video. I find myself checking email, facebook…. while the video is running. I may be old, and this is why I have problems with video. 🙂 As an aside, I’ve talked with some young folks about video. They said they usually skip around them rather than watching the whole thing.
That said, as always, your information is excellent. (I will watch your videos. It helps that they are usually short.)
Thank you for your comments Lynda. How fast ones computer is can determine a lot too. I appreciate your insights.
Lynda, It’s not about age. I’m young and I completely give it a miss if it’s video (some of the reasons are mentioned in my post above).
The only reason I watched this one (reluctantly) is that I was asked as a favor to and Kathleen is such a good trooper that I wanted to repay her kind nature — and because the video was somewhat shorter. Generally, if a video is over 3 minutes, it’s too long.
I completely agree with you about the ability to highlight notes in text. If I’m watching a powerpoint, I can quickly copy the info on the screen and highlight it later. The “talking head” video format doesn’t lend itself to remembering (ie, learning) what you’re being taught.
Appreciate the input. This is proof in the pudding that marketing is not a one size fits all nor is teaching and learning. We all have our favorites and those we don’t like or resonate with.
love the vid kathleen.
straight forward no hype, tired of hype,
I use video to market my business and i add music and voice over.
I have found 1 guy that does excellent voice over for cheap and
another guy that offers original music clips for cheap.
If anyone needs their info , let me know.
you can hear their work on my newest video.
I’m not sure about protocol here, but I can send link if ok with
kathleen.
I’ve got to put on youtube here in about 1 hour.
steve
Thanks for the feedback Steve. Feel free to post the information.
Hey I got it on youtube at
http://youtu.be/jpck36iaHWE
you can hear the music and voiceover quality.
If anyone needs their contact info, contact me.
email eznfun@gmail.com or call our tollfree line
888-285-1150 and I will put you in touch with these guys.
I always write a script and email it, then they email me the final
product for approval. If you need any changes they don’t get
bent out of shape , 🙂
very good prices too.
Thanks for sharing this Steve.
I love video as I make part of my living through video marketing. I love the personalization of video as it brings me closer to my prospective clients and associates. When I send a video e-mail I get such a huge response. People love the fact that when they press the play button I’m right there talking to them.
Some powerful statistics:
Video e-mails inspire a response within 48 hours 80% of the time according to Jupiter Research.
Video e-mail marketing offers a return 280% higher than traditional direct mail according to the Gartner Group.
It’s also been shown that video e-mail offers a 40% to 50% open rate over regular e-mail.
According to Cisco, by 2014 video will be 80% of internet traffic.
These are all impressive statistics in favor of video.
Thanks so much for this informative post Carol. Many people are not sure how effective video is and your stats lend themselves to lots of validity and reasoning in moving forward with video.
People have told me that video is a great marketing tool. Then I shrug my shoulders and realize I am in the minority. I can’t sit still for a long time and dislike videos. If sent a YouTube to view, I watch only out of respect for the person who sent it. If it is longer than 4 minutes , I go back and forth in my mind–Should I watch it or not. With anything that comes in from Kathleen Gage, I put everything down and watch it, even if it is longer than 30 minutes. Without video I would not have come to trust Kathleen as fast as I have, but in her hands, i.e. with her warmth, sincerity and authenticity, which comes across in a video, I watch her and learn.. But I know that Kathleen knows there are people out there who can[‘r sit still easily, and so she is focused, enthusiastic, and very pleasant and up-beat. Perhaps for me it boils down to energy or the right use of energy whether I like videos or not.
I am humbled by your comments Rebecca. Thank you for your kind words.
Hi Kathleen, thanks for asking about my thoughts! I do enjoy watching videos, but I often complete emails or research while I’m “watching” the videos. I think you get to the know, like, and trust faster with video..and as a marketer you are an instant celebrity.
I do use videos in my marketing but I often use one of my children or power points for my videos. I’ve never had too many hassles with learning about the software and I love things like Animoto for instant commercials.
That being said some people should really reconsider video! Or at least they should comb their hair and smile once in a while!
There is a fabulous product out there called iphonevideohero where Jules shows you exactly how to use that iphone.
If I had kids I would probably use them too. LOL Seriously though. Video is a great medium to have people get to know us quickly. And yes, do comb the hair, check the teeth and make sure your shirt looks good. 🙂
I love video, but haven’t used it very often yet. It is just a matter of time and adding in something new. I do enjoy watching quick videos. When they get too lengthy, I’d rather read about the subject at my own pace, since I can skim something and move on. I’d love your opinion of the video on my website, if you have a chance. Thank you!
I really like your video on your page. You convey very clearly who your market is, the background you use is perfect for your message, the bowl of healthy foods on the table is perfect and it makes your message very appealing.
Kathleen, I am SO GLAD you are addressing this point – I have an alternative opinion that I have not heard voiced from the industry. First, yes I have used video and plan to use it more. My limitation now is time and priorities; I need to have my new program completed (due out in April) to offer to my market. My CONS with video are this. 1. I don’t think video is the best format for all messages. I work @ a hospital and when I get a quick break to check emails I am NOT going to take 2 min to watch someone tell me info I can otherwise absorb in 10 seconds by glancing through type on an email. 2. I have to PAY for the DATA download on my iPhone – I am not paying for all these video messages to download. So with more and more mobile use I think many are on-board with me – keep the emails short, sweet and to the point and I will read them. Put the msg. in a video and it gets deleted. PRO- Video is PERFECT for learning. I am in your course where you used almost 1hr videos for teaching – I can watch the videos while on the treadmill and learn perfectly – that’s what it is best for. Otherwise if I don’t need visuals, mp3 that I can listen to while making dinner, driving, etc is best. THANK YOU for starting this discussion!
Hi Kathleen , A great video. Short and full of content; not one to go email surfing while running. I find that the actual delivery of oneself needs work.
One’s normal voice can be very dull, so working on animation and emphasis is important, and you have this in spades! Alos the content needs to be designed to be interesting.
I have begun coaching people on these aspect worlwide through Skype with great results for my clients.
Thank you for this video.
Thanks for your feedback Angela.
And yes, animation in one’s voice is absolutely essential Thanks for mentioning that. I was watching some videos yesterday and whoa!!!!! It seemed as if the two people I watched would rather have been doing anything but doing video. Being very present in the moment is key.
Kathleen,
Good solid content…
You missed the #1 most important part of video… audio!
Next time use a microphone and you’ll get an A on your video.
I have published over 3000 online videos since 2005. It drives
traffic like nothing else when used as you recommend with
keyword optimization.
Keep up the great work!
Duane
DigElog Publishing Network
Thanks for your comments Duane.
Because I didn’t know and because there are so many other ways to learn from, I have not attempted video marketing. Mainly because I didn’t know how. Now Kathleen is telling me in her video how easy it is and helps me to say to myself: “I can do this.”
I do have a Canon camera, and I assume that’s as good as a Flip or Zi8 camera.
Thanks Kathleen == you are teaching me so much and you are one of the “raisins” I pick out from all the emails I am getting before I delete much of the other stuff.
Britt
Thanks for your feedback Britt. I would venture to say the Canon should work great. Not sure on the loading to your computer though. You would need to do some research on that.
Thanks for the tips I’m a member of youtube.com member william2233 and have a T.V interview for my books and a few other thing. I should get into more more my children books that are published (3). I do have a digital camera it should do, I’ll have to try to do more with it
I would like to hear more about how you sold the cassette tapes.
This would show us how you started from the beginning and would let the newbies
learn how you started out.
thanks for the great vid kathleen
Beautiful presentation. I love the energy. I watch a lot of videos, I learn by visual. I remember body language and the emotions that go with the message more, that’s what makes impact in my learning. I haven’t used it myself. But like to start creating some small clips to be uploaded on Youtupe, and I really think you’ve done a good job in demystifying the stereo type that making videos is expensive. I think that’s what prevents a lot of people from doing them. Thanks again, very insightful..
I made my video without a camera.
If you don’t like to see yourself on film, do it this way.
almost all computers already have moviemaker installed in them,
so that part is free too.
I do not have a camera yet, but will look at getting a Flip camera on sale.
Probably the printed word is my favorite and easiest way to learn, but it’s what I am used to. I like videos as long as they are short, but always think twice about watching long ones. If I use them, I will like you, Kathleen, keep them short. I find them tedious because I feel shackled with the headset.
I will definitely use them.because other people like them so much.
Hi Kathleen,
Video is a MUST in this marketing climate. Live video and screencast using Power Point slides. Of course, I’m a bit biased (LOL) because I’ve produced a training course to help people navigate the waters of Camtasia – AND it includes the Camtasia license. If anyone wants the link click here http://tinyurl.com/VideoMasteryGage
Thanks for keeping us all updated on the latest!
Take Care!
Mynders
Yes, I love video. I have the flip and it is so easy. I’m in real estate so I do video tours of homes for sale or rent. I also do videos on me talking about real estate. I put them on YouTube and craigslist.
I also like to learn by watching videos. I have tried all these other things like power point for example but I just can’t get that all together and I would have to figure out how to a service like Camtasia. All that is too frustrating for me. So I am going to gett a white board like yours and just do my classes like that.
I do not mind videos if they are short. I do not like long ones. In fact I try not to watch them. You keep your videos upbeat and information packed. It is distressing when people just go on and on and on and on when they could say what they have to say briefly and succinctly.
Great video/post Kathleen!
Yes I use video. I go with the zi8 or the new iphone 4s (actually incredible quality). If I need a teleprompter I just put the camera on the keyboard of my laptop infront of my powerpoint presentation – you’re looking directly at the camera. So anyone who’s shy won’t have that memorization problem!
One incredible SEO bumping tip is to place the url of the video page on youtube at the end of the description. I got a video to rank #3 in the video section on google for a competitive keyword in 24 hours. In 72 hours it was #1. And two weeks later it was the first video displayed in general search. No traditional SEO can ever pull those kinds of numbers.
So keywords are important – but there’s more to seo-ing videos than that.
Keep up the great work! I’ve been reading your blog for awhile and want to thank you for putting out such good information!
Thanks for your comments and insights Jacob. And congratulations on you YouTube position. That’s awesome.
I am interested in learning how to use video in my marketing and I am taking a video course as I plan to use it in my marketing! I am a newbie! I noticed that a lot of marketers use video and I think pictures tell the message well! Thanks for your video! As usual it was interesting and relevant to my niche!
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Will likely be back to get more. Thanks