“Being able to tolerate the sound of your own voice in a video is probably the highest form of self acceptance.”
When I’m working with video clients, I often hear one similar worry from them, an anxiety conveyed by this quote I found on Facebook today. So many people are afraid to market themselves with video because of cosmetic concerns: hair, clothing, voice, anything. What everyone forgets, though (yes, even I do from time to time!), is that WE are our harshest critic. When a viewer watches your video, and you are addressing a concern or need they have, they’re not thinking about your hairstyle, your outfit, or the pitch of your voice — they’re listening to what you have to say, and realizing that you are the expert. And that’s because you are! You know your business better than anyone.
When my children were younger, they would get so pissed off when they were not perfect at something right out of the gate. I would always have to tell them that perfection is EARNED BY BEING CONSISTENT.
When you engage viewers face-to-face, you start a relationship with them. Even in our digital world, people will STILL want to do business with those they know, like, and trust. Think of videos like a conversation — it’s the closest thing to having an in-person discussion. Overall, the thing that truly matters is consistent engagement, consistent relationship building. Talk with your viewers and show them what you know often. Plus, don’t be afraid to show your personality! After all, you are your business. Being true to yourself will come through in videos and make your viewers feel comfortable as well. Be their friend, and I promise, they will respond in kind.
My friend and mentor, Lou Bortone, shared a recent blog where he shared this graphic that Wave.video made – and this is really everyone’s issue in a nutshell:
To address the top issues, getting started, as far as equipment goes, is the easy part. All you need is a tripod, some lighting, (because no one wants to watch a shaky video and they need to see your face) and your expertise. Check out some of my equipment recommendations here.
Content – answer questions, solve problems, educate – that is what your target audience needs. Even if you think it is silly or “everyone already knows that”, trust me – they DON’T. Share your knowledge, your resources, it builds the trust people need to hire you. So to get your business out there, to get people to consider using your company, you have to put yourself out there – ONCE AGAIN, ON A CONSISTENT BASIS!
You have to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, or else nothing is going to change. Embrace your personality. Realize that you are the expert on your business, and know that I am here to help you along the way! As far as finding time goes, if you cannot make this happen, stop whining! Get some help! Don’t drag your feet and miss out on getting your face out there. Hire help – like I am sure you do for a number of things in your business.
My video program will make this easy. I help you with topics, take care of the shooting, editing and promoting, but most of all – the ACCOUNTABILITY of being consistent! Hit me up and let’s take your business to the next level this year!