when most people think of the online video, they think of viral videos on YouTube and other video sharing sites. While viral video can generate plenty of traffic, it’s not the only way online video can benefit your business. An online video series on your website can build your credibility, attract viewers, deliver a sales message, and keep customers coming back for more. Here are five tips for making effective use of online videos on your business website.
Share something interesting:
Bring your viewers something useful. Many people go online because they’re looking for information. If you give it to them, you’ll reap the rewards. Customers will see you as an expert in their field, remember your business name, and feel a certain level of trust for your company-you’ll give the impression that you care about your customers.
Post How-to videos:
Put together a how-to video series: if you’re a contractor, do a series on home repair techniques, anything from installing a ceiling fan to redesigning a bathroom. If you’re in retail, do a series on how to design an effective window display or strong floor sales techniques. Every business owner has something to teach. The ‘how-to videos’ get more YouTube views that help you to make your videos viral.
Be authentic:
Be funny and original. Humor is what drives the viral video phenomenon. While the aim of a video series on your website isn’t necessarily to make people laugh, it helps–and it can bring in a lot of traffic. If people think your video is funny, there’s a good chance they’ll tell their friends about it. That can add up to a lot of free publicity.
There are a lot of ways to make a fun, original video that relates to your business–even if you sell something that doesn’t seem very exciting at first glances, like blenders. The key is to have fun with your product. For example, the Blendtec blender company has a video series called “Will it Blends?” in which a man in a lab coat puts things like teddy bears, cubic zirconium, glow sticks, and magnets into one of their blenders–just to see what will happen. Original, interesting videos that showcase their product are blending power. And a lot of tiny teddy bears pieces.
Be interactive:
Be interactive. People are always more interested when they feel they’re involved. So encourage your customers to be a part of your online video efforts. Give a link for customers to make suggestions for your next video–Willitblend.com has a link where people can suggest things to put in the blender, for instance. Encourage viewers to submit their videos showcasing your product or their ads for your company–offer a prize for the best one. It’s highly likely viewers will respond.
Online video can do a lot for your business. It can get your message across, showcase your product, deliver a funny and effective sales pitch, build credibility, attract traffic and publicity, and get prospects interested in you. With all the benefits, it’s hard to find a reason why your site shouldn’t use online video.
