“Where can I get content for my YouTube Channel?”

It’s a no-brainer at this point that you have a channel on the biggest video website and take advantage of a portion of the 2 billion people that watch YouTube videos daily, but it may seem overwhelming at first to develop good content. Have no fear! It can be easier than you first think to come up with fabulous video ideas to help promote your brand and showcase you as the “go to” expert.

Think about creating tutorials–a series of them.

It’s easy if you consider what questions or problems your clients or customers most often bring to you. Extend that answer into a short “lesson” of two or three minutes. Share your best information with passion and enthusiasm and make a difference in a prospective client’s life. Sharing your best stuff can not only impress the person seeking help but should intrigue him to wonder what else you’ve got!

If you have a hard product, your tutorial could be a product demonstration. Keep in mind that with this you may want to do some easy editing. A zoom in or out to clearly show how the product is used or highlight special features. It doesn’t have to be fancy–just effective!

Another use for the tutorial or demonstration video is showcasing or pitching your product to prospective investors or big buyers. Rather than still photos, you can give them an “experience”! It’s not a bad idea to make sure your flash player is up to date on your smart phone. You can access your channel anywhere and share your message or product via video in seconds when the opportunity arises. Last year, the number of mobile viewers of YouTube tripled! Think about how connected (literally) you are to your smartphone. Now, it really makes sense to have your video tutorial easily accessible when you need it!

The last use of a tutorial type video is customer care. Why not offer a video to illustrate clearly how to assemble, use, or fix your product? After all, YouTube is quickly becoming a resource center; for instance, I recently searched for a solution to a problem I was having with my clothes dryer. I found my answer demonstrated on YouTube. That little video saved me hundreds of dollars. I am so grateful. I absolutely would refer the man that created that video! And I have never met him!

Never underestimate the power of the moving picture. It can open doors and pull paying clients through them. What can you do this week that will help others and highlight your expertise?

Today I want you to share the information that you know like the back of your hand.  Pretty easy, huh?

I would venture to guess that no matter what your field of expertise, you have the same questions asked of you over and over. Yep, I am referring to the “frequently asked questions.”

You should have a FAQ area on your website. Think of the ease with which you can utilize video answers to these:

FIRST, you have no homework; you know these answers inside out… most times you are asked them on a daily basis.  Easy!

SECOND, It’s the simplest formula in the world:

1. Take the question.
2. Hit “record” on your camera
3. Repeat the question in the answer.
4. Hit “stop recording” on your camera
5. Rinse and repeat (well, kind of) at least 10 times. (10 videos)

A quick example:

The question: “Will training on camera help me with public speaking?”

Answer: “Training on camera helps public speakers tap into a deeper level of confidence. I recommend training on camera not only to get even more solid in your presentation style and brand, but also to avoid any self-consciousness that can arise when a speaker spots a camera pointed at them during their time on stage. Quite often, presentations are video taped now. It’s better to be prepared for it.”

Less than 30 second answer.

Easy.

THE EXTRA BONUS? You can use these little videos in multiple ways from posting them on social networks or on your YouTube channel as a regular “tip” series, to utilizing them in a streaming video in your waiting room where your next potential client or patient is formulating their own questions for you. This helps to create effective consultations, if that is a part of your business!

These are just a few ideas. Take a few minutes and you’ll probably come up with a few of your own. By creating multiple uses for your content you are preserving your most precious resource, your time!

Take some time today and write out your ten most often-asked questions. Pick an hour to shoot this week, and get your videos out there to promote your brand.

EASY.

PS: A quick word of advice, while it is most important that you get the video footage done and in use, you may want to have an editor ( or spend some time on your own) to place your logo in a corner of the video FAQ’s. This protects your information, and further promotes your brand.

Want more examples? Take a look at our FAQ answer videos… I did them myself in one afternoon.

http://charismaoncamera.com/contact-us/faqs

“Do you ever teach a class on testimonials?”

The light went on; until that moment, I had not considered the degree to which testimonials are overlooked as promotion for business!  Since the person asking me the question was not only a friend, but a marketing genius, I decided to give this testimonial idea a bit more thought….

You may be thinking,” well, it’s obvious that testimonials for my business are great for my website and other promotion.  I know this already….”

Hold your horses because I am talking about the incredible value in the giving of testimonials!

As much as you appreciate a good testimonial, you know you will not hesitate to use a good customer’s complimentary video on your website if it’s done well.  So, if you get to be excellent at giving great testimonials, think of all the websites you may show up on! Each time you are reminding people of who you are and what you do!

All that extra exposure for FREE!  Actually, I like to think of it as better than free because you are, after all, helping a fellow entrepreneur or expert by giving a heartfelt endorsement.  It’s a win-win!  When you get to help a new client or customer because they found you on website giving a testimonial (it happens, a lot!) then it’s actually a win-win-win!

So how can you consistently give great testimonials?

It’s a simple process really:

1.  Start with your name and your company. Don’t rush this!  Add in your tag line if you have one. This is where we get our first sense of who you are, so show us a bit of your brand.

2. The content of the testimonial.  This is where some people falter. The question, “What exactly do I say?” can be paralyzing.  I admit, I avoided giving testimonials in the beginning because I was not sure how to assemble a good testimonial.  Try this:

“Before I attended______________________ (or used___________ or was coached by ___________________…you get the idea), I was ________________________(choose an undesirable  state, like  “frustrated by _______” or “struggling with ________”).  Now I am _______________________ (choose a desirable state, “ excited to be________,  confident in______________).

Thank you so much ___________________________!

3.  Close with your name and website or company name again.  Be friendly (not “salesy”) and clear…  realize someone may be writing or typing your website at that moment!

Pretty simple but effective!

The next time you have the opportunity to give a video testimonial for someone that has helped you, jump at the chance!  In fact, why not think of someone that has helped you and send them a testimonial today!  What a great gift to receive from a client or happy customer.  At the very least, you may just make someone’s day.  At the best, you may attract a great client or two from that person’s website.

For more ideas on how you can think outside the box to use video and other visual media to increase your business, attend a workshop, seminar, tele-class or just call for a free consultation!  Don’t wait to get started towards making the impact you are designed to make in the world. www.CharismaONCamera.com  877.605.3322

For some great, formatted testimonial examples check out these Charisma ON Camera clients!

While the media goals had been well met, perhaps the campaign itself had not been all that successful.  After all, here I was, alongside my friend and animal trainer, Jessie, answering the call to help the woman who initiated this ill- fated campaign; it was the end of the line for her.. and her horses needed a forever home.  (We were the right ones to call. They are happy, safe, and maybe a bit spoiled now!)

What happened?

It could have been the common misconception that media exposure is always a good thing.  Many people seek to grab the opportunity for exposure whenever it arises, believing that the more people they reach, the better.

Not always true.

In the case of this animal right activist, for instance, a well-meaning soul, heartfelt in her approach, but some of the planning was lacking in detail.  There was not enough solid research for her points to be considered seriously, and ultimately, no sufficient call to action.. she had no website to inform or petition to sign.  Awareness was raised slightly, perhaps, but the outcome was not what it might have been.

Other ways that media may not be so friendly is when the call to appear on a TV show is accepted without the proper research on the show’s audience demographics.  Just because a show might be high in the ratings does not necessarily mean that your product or service is what that audience will want.  I know the story of a woman who manufactured thousands of extra products to appear on Oprah, thinking that she would sell out and become a household name overnight with the exposure on her show.  Unfortunately, her products were not appropriate for the viewers; the price point was too high.  Her media opportunity on one of the highest rated shows at the time was a costly mistake.

In both circumstances, and in so many others, the mistake is in the planning, or the lack thereof.

Have a big goal that you are moving toward.  Some call it a big picture.  With that big picture in mind, work backwards and realize the structure you need in order to accomplish your goal.  Who do you need to meet to get you there?  Who do you need to  become your biggest fans?  Now, where do you find them and what do they need right now?

Provide the correct solution, in the correct media outlet and that can be an incredible way to build recognition and trust.  You might even become a household name!

“Make it matter.”  What do I mean by that?

First… Think of your big picture. Even if, at this moment you don’t know the “how,” go ahead and picture the impact that you would like to make in the world .

Consider, too, that if your company is fueling a charitable cause and that’s what you are passionate about… that is your big picture. Your business success is directly related to that positive outcome. So,  even if you sell magic markers, I know you have a big picture!

It’s the picture of what you can accomplish that can strengthen your mindset as you head into the sharing of your message on video, TV or even public speaking.  Your big goal serves as a constant reminder of the “why” that drives you.  It’s like a quiet computer program, running in the background to keep you  on point.

But, this is just step one!

Now think of the specific person that you want to reach. How exactly will you help them?  You might even think of a particular client or customer from the past that showed great appreciation for what you did for them.  It is this person and people just like them that you will be reaching when you talk through that most powerful tool… the camera lens.

If this seems rudimentary, it’s not.  Beginning your video prep with this simple exercise is similar to a runner’s starting stretch.  You are getting in tune with the machine that is going to carry you to your goal.  Your visual brand is that machine for your business or cause.

There are two significant benefits to this simple ritual:

1. It’s the best way to develop your message.  By considering exactly who you want to reach, and what problem you solve for them, you can determine the specific questions that might be in their head when they “Google search” and find you.  Build your message by first answering that question! From there, share your expertise and don’t forget to let them know that you are like them… explain why you “get” them by sharing a bit of your personal story!

2. You are keeping your thoughts occupied and away from fear. You may have heard the phrase, “where there is faith, fear cannot exist.”  Because if you concentrate on anything positive (faith, giving back, helping others) you cannot actively engage the negative thoughts.  Without the hurdle of your own negative thoughts, imagine how much faster you can move forward in your business, career and life!

Having a clear idea of your desired outcome before you speak will not only keep you on point but will allow you to come from a place of genuine passion for your topic.  When you hold a clear picture of what can be, we want to see it too!  By making it matter to you, you can create a movement or move a market.

And that big picture will come into focus.

What’s the number one reason people hesitate on moving forward in the use of video or other visual media in their business?  I’ve found it to be nearly always fear of some form.

Ranging from absolute paralyzing terror of the lens to negative self-talk and overall-fish out of water feeling, fear can cost you!

 Here are five easy rules to get over it!

1.  No winging it! Just like starting a new sport, prepare as best you can before you start shooting.  Is your next project a video for your business, or Facebook fan page? Are you looking to be a guest expert on TV and other media? Think big!  Maybe your own show? Now get clear on what you want to accomplish and understand what your visual brand needs to say about you!  Hey, hiring a coach for this is a great thing to consider. Bottom line:  A racehorse that stumbles out of the gate rarely wins…why not make sure your first steps are the right ones?

2.  Clear your focus: No matter where you are, or what you might be unhappy with, move your focus to what you want instead.  Don’t worry about the website that needs to be perfect (it will never be) or the 5 pounds you want to lose (we’ll never notice) or for your book to be published: build the momentum now and just say “yes” to starting onto the next level of your media goals.  Now is not the time to waste. Bottom line: If you have an online presence, and you want to keep your business you need video now.  Period.

3.  Register your value: Whether you are in front of  TV, radio or a live audience, magazine readers, or your personal clients, believe unwaveringly in your ability to bring value to others.  If you have trouble with the word “ unwaveringly” in that last sentence, then get yourself a coach and /or some cheerleaders, because you do have incredible value, and the world will be better if you share your knowledge and talent!  Bottom line: By keeping attention outward, it is impossible to focus on feel bad about yourself.

4.  Recognize what negative self-talk is holding you back:  If you hear yourself saying things like “but” or using  “should”, “always”, “not” or “never”, your self-criticism is probably at work.  Stop it before it stops you!  Allow some quiet time to listen to your verbiage that you use with yourself; how do you describe your talent.  Confidence, intelligence and body?  Replace all negative phrases and disclaimers with positive terms and powerful statements. It may seem awkward at first, that why step five is:     

5.  Go back to step one and repeat the series as often as necessary!

The ability to transcend fear and all negative thought is the key to accelerated change in your life, and in your performances… even if your performances are in your local networking groups, or meeting rooms!

Replace that fear with faith in the impact you were designed to make!

It is the connection that helps them to see that you are like them… that you can understand where they are, and you are living proof that you have the solution to help them with their problem. Video and visual media can put you in the position to create rapport with your audience, your story can secure it, and move them closer to action (becoming a client, customer or even a sponsor).

Of course we have more than one story, and other stories can be used throughout your marketing, interviews and videos to create metaphors, highlight problems and solutions. The signature story though is one that can be used in visual media to create your following of enthusiastic fans (aka: clients and customers).

Three secrets to telling your story with success?

1.  Don’t disregard the best part; so often that thing that “no one will want to know” or that “ you couldn’t tell your customers” might be JUST the thing that helps your target market really trust you. Idea: journal your most important moments in the development of your business, or career and share them with a trusted advisor or coach. You might be surprised at what will resonate with others.

2.  Focus on the recovery, not the problem. It’s great to share your struggles and show where you’ve come from but keep the focus on your recovery and how it has helped you see clearly how to help others. Positivity is attractive and empowering.

3.  Be sure to have a few different versions.  Have a short version, 30 seconds to two minutes, for networking and introductory videos. Plus, have a longer version that you can share in a longer format, like on stage or on your ‘about us” page of your website. You may even do slight adjustments to emphasize different elements when you are speaking to a select niche audience.

Spend some time on your signature story. It may feel self indulgent to some, but the ability to help others and increase your business is directly related to rapport with your market, and your unique story is the best way to connect that you’ve got!

One of the best parts of working on TV is the clothes…I wish I could keep them, and some of the jewels as well.

Dressing like a soap star every day in real life isn’t in most people’s budget, but with the holidays just around the corner (hard to believe but true!) your VISUAL BRAND needs some go to soap-opera worthy glamour!

I love the idea of dressing up, and I also love the idea of keeping my bank account growing… THAT’S why I love these two companies!

I met Carol at an event and loved her… and her bling!  Borrowed Bling is the best way to look movie star fabulous and stay in your budget!  I mean, hey, the red carpet at the Oscars are filled with jewels that are borrowed, so why shouldn’t you do the same thing?

And another accessory that  speaks for you… your bag!  Check out Bag Borrow or Steal!

The holidays can be a great time to network.  People are just a touch more relaxed and the atmosphere a bit more fun.  You’ve been working on your messaging and your pitch (including the super short networking one) all year long, so put on that party dress(and bling and fab bag) and get out there!

You can make an impact with your life.. making an impact with your image doesn’t hurt!

Creation of your visual brand is a powerful marketing step.  That’s a given.  But what if you are trying to reach executives?  Don’t they prefer charts, figures, whitepaper and written statistics to video?

Truth is, executives are just like the rest of us.   A recent study by Forbes  (Forbes Insights) shows that while it is true that younger execs have a higher preference for video, even their senior counterparts are turning to visual medium more often.

75% of executives surveyed said they watch work-related videos on business-related websites at least weekly; and 52% watch work-related videos on YouTube at least weekly.

So they are watching, but are they reacting to video?  Yes; Overall, 65% have visited a vendor’s website after watching a video. Younger executives, however, may be more fully engaged with this type of media, and appear more likely to make a purchase, call a vendor, or respond to an ad.

Video has a social appeal that written word is lacking.  The same sense of connection that we get from a conversation with someone in the same room is duplicated when they are looking at us through a camera lens.  We have a sense of knowing that person, and being connected with them.  That’s why I say that nothing builds recognition and credibility faster than visual media.

Executives may love their facts and figures, but they react with the same primitive instincts that we all have when it comes to preferring a face and movement with a message as compare to written word.  Facts and figures can accompany your video pitch, or communication either embedded in the video or alongside.

It’s good to know that executives are among the masses that prefer more and more to have their information delivered in a visual format. Whether you are pitching an idea, product, charitable opportunity, or looking for investors, video formatting your message may be the most effective way to get your message across.

For more ideas on how you can utilize video or visual media in your business ventures contact Charisma on Camera for a consultation and a brainstorming session!  Our production team is always available.

Guidelines to Get What You Really Need 

Are you being swindled?  Are you handing your credit card to people marketing information to you that you already know? Or, worse yet, are you buying from people marketing information to you that you never actually get? Your immediate response is most likely, “not me!”   If that’s true, fantastic!  Now read on and consider which of your friends you may help… you might save them thousand of dollars.

First, I confess, I’m hopping onto the complaint train for just a quick trip here…it’s not typical of me, at all (in fact, “complaining “ is a dirty word as far as I am concerned), but if it keeps even one of you ( or your friend) from spending your valuable cash on a faux guru that it’s worth it.

What do I mean by “faux guru?”

I am referring to someone who positions themselves as a guru in business, mindset, marketing, spirituality, etc., but whose true skill is sales. (Ironically, I must respect the skill because many of them are very financially successful)  They sell you on the idea that you will learn something, and when you get to the event/ seminar/ webinar you are sold again on the idea that there is a BIGGER something that you need to pay to learn and so on and so on.   I have seen an incredible amount of this manipulation, and I am offended.  I am offended because I consider content to be of utmost importance when I “have the stage,” whether it is a literal stage or a webinar.   Lately, I have seen a few “gurus” deliver little, if any, value to their audience. (This is where any respect I had for their sales abilities is negated).

For me, if someone leaves without a at least a nugget of new and valuable information that they can take and use immediately, then I have failed.

I work with visionaries, and my responsibility to them is to provide them with the tools to enable them to make the difference they were designed to make in the world.  If I do not provide tools for them that they can take away and build with, my time with them is wasted.

That’s what it come down to … are you getting what you really need? How can you know?

Here are a few guidelines:

1. Will this “expert” give you something you can use immediately, and effectively, to change your current state for better?  Will you develop skills or clarity that will be able to be utilized and built upon in order to create the life that you want?
2. Will this “expert” provide a product for you that you can utilize immediately and effectively to change your current state for better? And: Is this product something you cannot create on your own?
3. Will this “expert” introduce you to people who can immediately and effectively change your current state for better?

If the answer to any of these is a very strong yes, then go for it!  Full speed ahead! Set course for your biggest goals and call me when you get there!

If you hesitated for a second in any of these answers, it might be because you already possess the knowledge to get yourself from your current state to the better!

What may not help you:

1. Learning how to sell, from being sold (seriously, look for it!).
2. Interpreting your dreams (you do this already).
3. Interpreting your true calling (you and God do this already… just listen).

My bottom line…trust in your brilliance, your talent and your dream.  Your “big picture” is drawn by YOU every day.

Surround yourself with a great support team that can make that big picture happen, but before you bring someone onto your team… run them through the guidelines above. Do they truly qualify to help you make the impact you are designed to make? Will they deliver?

The world is waiting for you to make your impact.  We are counting on you to do it effectively.  I have faith that you will!