YouTube Introduction to Video
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Why Video?
Video is currently the fastest growing website feature for small businesses. Why? Adding video to your website can help you improve customer relationships, and increase profits and brand awareness.
The best news is that you don't need to be a Hollywood producer to get started. In fact, some of the most popular videos are simple, straightforward, and shot by amateurs. And most importantly, they are short - less than 3 minutes.
How Can Video Help My Business?
Using video to market your business can help you:
- Raise awareness
- Generate word-of-mouth
- Improve search rankings
- Increase referrals
- Personalize your brand
You've Probably Got Some Questions
Q. I don't know the first thing about creating a video, where should I start?
A. First of all, remember that production quality doesn't matter as much as content. As long as you start with the goal of providing helpful information or something entertaining you'll be on the right path.
Q. What should my videos be about?
A. There are lots of options. You could post a video showcasing your business in a traditional way, like interviewing the founders, or touring the company offices. Or, you could create a parody video, lip dub, or even a short commercial.
How One Small Business Uses Video
There are lots of small businesses using video to engage with customers and prospects. One we really like is Chaumette Winery. Below is an example of how they're using video to let their customers behind the scenes and build interest in future batches of wine.
Know Your Options: YouTube
YouTube is currently the 2nd largest search engine in the world after Google. If you decide to post company videos, this is the place to do it. We’ll show you how in the next section.
Pros: Audience. You can reach a much bigger audience by posting your videos to YouTube compared to other sites, including iPhone and iPad users. Plus, you’ll benefit from YouTube search.
Cons: This isn’t the place to host your full-length feature masterpiece. Video size is limited to 15 minutes.
Know Your Options: Facebook
Facebook can be a great place to host your company videos. Visit our Facebook Video Section to learn more about uploading videos to Facebook.
Pros: You can tag Facebook friends and colleagues in videos. This will send them a notification, encouraging them to watch and share.
Cons: Your videos won’t reach as wide an audience as on YouTube, and people won’t be able to find your videos using Google.
Know Your Options: Vimeo
Vimeo is ideal for high-end videos like documentaries, short features, and full-length movies.
Pros: Length! You can post videos longer than 15 minutes. Vimeo also accepts High Quality HD video.
Cons: Your videos won’t reach as wide an audience as on YouTube, and if you want to take advantage of all Vimeo’s great features, you might have to purchase a premium account.
Know Your Options: Blip.tv
Blip.tv is perfect for creating online TV shows and generating revenue from your content.
Pros: You can create a personalized channel that is easy to embed on your website or blog. Monetizing your content is simple and encouraged.
Cons: Your videos won't reach as wide an audience as on YouTube. The site is more obscure and can be more complicated for beginners than alternatives like YouTube or Facebook.
