& how to create compelling videos on a budget
In 2023, there’s no way around it: video content is a must. No matter the industry you work in or the audience you’re targeting, videos win every time – even over photographs, copy, and quips.
We’re on a mission to share actionable tips that make a difference, and luckily for you, videos don’t need to be high-budget or overly complicated to launch a career, further a cause, and fast-track a business’s growth.
Ready to see some videos in action? Here are just a few strategies that illustrate the power of simple content:
8 Figure Agency’s Loom Strategy
Jordan Ross from 8 Figure Agency produces Loom videos for his agency’s website, and they’re free for anyone to watch. This video marketing tactic requires very little effort and virtually zero budget, but does a fantastic job of luring in its target audience. Though short, they provide just enough information to engage that “I need to know more about this” part of your brain.
By spending 15 minutes in front of a webcam, Ross is both making his customers' lives easier and fostering new connections he might otherwise struggle to make.
Questions to Keep in Mind
Whether you have all the money in the world, are trying to create something within a tight budget (who isn’t), or have no funding beyond the phone in your pocket, the same three key questions still apply:
1. Who is this for?
2. What am I trying to tell the viewer?
3. What is the action I want the viewer to take?
Powerful video marketing messages are clear, compelling, and emotionally resonant. You should both have a specific target audience in mind and call back to the overall brand message of your company. If you don’t have one, start there! Oh, and never forget the call to action – the best videos have a sense of urgency.
Apple’s “Here’s to the Crazy Ones”
For those of us old enough to remember Apple’s affectionately titled “Here’s to the Crazy Ones” campaign, you may remember the powerful imagery of Einstein, Amelia Earhart, Gandhi, Martin Luther King, Jr., and other world-changers. Though none of us likely have the same resources as Apple, it’s interesting to note that they used just pictures and copy to bring this to life. The closing line of the spot is especially short and punchy:
“While some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”
In just 30-60 seconds, anyone can string together compelling copy and straightforward imagery.
Google’s “Years In Search” Videos
Google’s annual end-of-year video is so good, people look forward to its release. They’re a perfect example of effective ethos, smoothly blending subtle emotional scenes with a big-picture celebration of the brand. In many ways, the tactic is something we can all replicate – Google uses what it has on-hand (search data) to remind viewers how it personally helps them. How can you humanize your brand? When do you help people the most? What juicy information do you have laying around? Don’t overthink it, and allow the answer to dictate your next video.
The Customer POV
One of the easiest ways to compel your audience is to show them who you authentically are and what you realistically do. For example, a spa could make a quick video showing the actual process of a popular treatment from a customer’s POV. Allow your staff’s personality to shine through, and focus on highlighting your product in a genuine way. Audiences know when they’re watching something real, and they’ll get excited to get a piece of the action!
Smart leaders and entrepreneurs know the power of video content and lean on it to tell their stories, unlock new audiences, and advance their mission. Curious to see what videos can do for your bottom line? We’d love to help! Click here to get in touch.
