When most of us think of using video on the social networks, it is often with the vision of having that video go viral. Not that we necessarily want to be worldwide celebrities – or do we?
That's exactly what can hold you back. If it happens, that's wonderful and something to celebrate. Until then, think about what's important here. You just want to be known in your market.
Today I was ready to turn a proposal loose to a new client. At the last minute I realized that taking an extra 15 minutes to shoot a 2 minute video introduction for anyone who might be involved in the decision-making process would be a good idea. Is it worth that to get the business? You know it is.
We're talking about relationships here. You obviously cannot develop a relationship with a video, but you can help give someone a glimpse into your personality – what it may be like to work with you. That is something you cannot do in words. And that is a powerful use of social media.
How It's Done
When I tried to load up the aforementioned video to YouTube, I discovered (for the first time) that YouTube was down. So, I strolled on over to Vimeo. For one thing, I know the quality of a video presentation is better with Vimeo. It may not have the audience of YouTube, but the quality is exceptional.
What I didn't know is their system of password protecting a video is very nice indeed. With just one click they will email the link of your video, along with your personal message and the necessary password to view it.
Time to Think Better
There is tendency among marketers to think bigger – we are trained to reach for more customers. While social media can help you with that, it also is ideal for helping you to better communicate with that small circle of prospects and customers that know you, that understand you, and are therefore more likely to do business with you.
There is an energy to marketing. You know it and I know it. However, at some point you need to get off of the energy train and focus on the opportunities that are right in front of you.
You understand the tools. Just consider how you can use them to more effectively get results now.
When we have access to the same tools, and similar skills for using them, it is often creativity that separates us.
You've got that creativity. How can you use it to differentiate your business?
Photo Credit: Scott Kinmartin