Online video is exploding. It’s now the most popular online advertising format, beating out Facebook and Google Adwords. If you have anything to sell, promote or explain, you’d better be using video to help do it.
One type of video that small business owners have been doing for years is a basic video of them speaking. If you run a small business that offers some type of personal service, this personal touch type of video can be very effective.
On the other hand, if you’re not great on camera or your particular business doesn’t lend itself to this type of video, you’ve got other great video options. These two below have become both popular and effective with every type of business, product, service and organization.
Use Video to Build Your Business
Concept Videos
Also known as “big idea” videos, these short, creative videos are designed to captivate the viewer, convey a compelling message and leave the viewer with a desire to buy.
In essence, a great concept video is a great commercial.
A well done concept video should not only resonate with your prospect on an intellectual level, it needs to connect on an emotional level. Because studies have shown that it’s that emotional connection that makes the difference in a buying decision.
The goal of a concept video is to not only inform, but to convert your prospects into paying customers.
Explainer Videos
As the name suggests, “explainer” videos are designed to explain a product or service. They usually take the form of simple animated graphics that tell a story. It often involves a cartoon-like character and infographics. A “whiteboard” animation that simulates a hand quickly drawing on a whiteboard is another popular explainer video style.
Unlike a 30 or 15 second concept video, explainer videos usually average about 60 seconds.
Explainer videos have become very popular in the B2B arena because B2B products, in general, tend to be more esoteric. However, familiar products and services can also benefit from an explainer video. For example, while everyone knows what a dentist is, they may not know much about dental implants. An explainer video can explain what a dental implant is, why you might need one and how it’s done.
Smart business owners realize that even if they have the best product in the world, they won’t be successful if they don’t effectively excite and convince prospects. If done right these types of videos will help you do that.
Video Photo via Shutterstock
Mike
Working on creating a series of explainer videos right now. I find it difficult to balance informative with entertaining.
john follis
You’re not alone Mike. It’s a definite skill.
Check out our Explainer samples at: http://bit.ly/1d59Vwd and if you like, let’s chat.
And if not, good luck!
John
Video is a huge part of online marketing. Setting up a YouTube Channel for your business is FREE! You can house all the videos there for quick access and additional viewers. Videos can be quickly added to your website or social media pages. If you don’t think you have anything to say, ask your friends and clients: “What would you like to see in my video?” You will get more ideas than you know what to do with.
Agree 100%, Thad…
John
John
Great article. I own a video production/advertising company and we’ve really been pushing our clients to do more video. Testimonial videos on company websites are unbelievably important.
Thanks, John!
Robert Tafolla
Great points We are building a web site right now, this helps.
Thanks, Robert.
You can check out our samples at: http://bit.ly/1d59Vwd and if you think we can help, let’s chat.
And if not, good luck!
John
Aira Bongco
I think concept and explainer videos are now hotter than those personal videos. Why? There are simply too much personal videos already – all claiming the same thing. If you can come up with something unique, then that will let you stand out.
You nailed it, Aira. Thanks for sharing and stay tuned for my next piece!
John