How can you make videos more compelling?
Here are 5 EEEEEASY things you can do now!
We’ll cover practical tips as well as some neuroscience insight!
It takes time and energy to record a video.
There are some things we can do to capitalize on our invested energy.
And they are all super easy and can be implemented right away!
#1 — Don’t do it after Lunch.
There are lots of reasons why trying to speak on video immediately after a meal isn’t great.
I can certainly understand the logic of wanting to feel energized, but this isn’t the way!
For a little while immediately after eating, food may stick in your throat.
Especially if you ate peanuts, chips, or any other sundry foods that tend to “choke you up.”
(So if you MUST eat directly prior, do choose something smooth!)
We also get a teeny bit sleepy right after a meal, and our energy may lower slightly.
Instead, plan your video recording when you are most alert and hydrated.
We’ve all had that mystical “coughing fit” at an inopportune time.
But with a dash of planning (and some water or hot tea), you can hopefully avoid this common pitfall!
#2 — The cam is your BFF – no, I mean literally.
How many times have you watched a “stiff” deliver a cold, unrelatable vid?
It’s really important to talk to the camera like you would a buddy, because the point of video content is to build a relationship.
If you need to, you can hang a photo of your actual best friend, a client, or just use your imagination.
Try to stick to relatable, conversational language, and act like a human – LOL.
Sometimes we slip into “profesh” mode on camera.
It’s fine to be your usual articulate self, just turn it into a conversation.
Remember that how they FEEL towards you will play a big role in deciding to work with you, (or not)!
#3 — Tryyyyy not to use a script.
I know it’s tempting!!
In our nervousness, we assume we’ll be sooo much better off having the full thing written out.
This is really only true when recording a training video such as a technical, screen-sharing type of video.
(In that case, it definitely pays to be succinct and cut the annoying “ums” out!)
But when your primary goal is CONNECTION, then a more conversational approach will be vital.
Have just a few bullets listed out instead.
That way you can stay on track (without being tangential), and remember what your key points are.
#4 — Be succinct, to the tune of less than 15 minutes.
They. Just. Can’t.
It’s not about how interesting we are, or how interested they are — it’s neuroscience.
Humans can’t continue to absorb info longer than 15 minutes without a brain break.
So you’ll lose them — and that defeats the purpose of all that work you put in!
If you are handling a complex topic, maybe make it 2 vids – a background one and then a deeper one.
It’s more important to keep them engaged than cover everything.
And since they didn’t fall asleep or give up listening in favor of laundry (yikes!), maybe they’ll even come back for more!
#5 — Give them a 5-minute (or less) “to do” item.
Again with the neuroscience!
We retain new material best if we can implement it within 24 hours or make it directly relatable to our lives.
So instead of recommending a month-long exercise to them, give them ONE bite-sized action item.
Make sure it’s something that is EASY, that they can do IMMEDIATELY, because otherwise, they likely just WON’T.
This is the best, easiest way to make you and your Content memorable to them.
And coming back for more. That is the definition of compelling!
Which of these 5 tips was most useful?
Which can you choose to try right away?
Maybe you can add to this list as you go.
xx
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