Vlogging can be as simple, or complex, as you would like it to be. At its most basic level, all you need to do is sit down in front of your web cam and begin telling a story. As with writing however, there are a few things to keep in mind when you are telling a story.
Do you remember speech class in college? Do you remember the structure of a speech? The story you tell when you’re vlogging should follow that structure if you want it to be effective; tell them what you’re going to tell them; tell them; tell them what you’ve told them. That’s it…
What to include in your vlog post
Your vlog post should always include:
- The introduction – Explain what you are going to talk about;
- The body – Tell your story;
- The close – Remind them of what you just told them;
- A call-to-action – If you’re selling something – a product, a service, even a simple opt-in – always ask for “the sale”.
The call-to-action at the end of your vlog post is critical to your success. This is often the most difficult step for anyone who has not been trained in sales. It’s even difficult for many sales people who fear rejection. Just remember this; your visitor came to you because you have something she wants. It’s OK – in fact, you have the right – to ask for something in return.
Do-it-yourself video vs. professional video production
If you’re vlogging on a regular schedule, that is, sharing information with video as opposed to text, DIY video is probably fine. However, if you want to make a serious effort at marketing a product or service, you will want to at least consider getting some professional help.
DIY video will usually be simple and direct, and will look a bit like this…
- A “talking head” presentation
- Simple information sharing
- A “How to” explanation
- A product or service review
A professional video production will usually have much more “POP,” and will definitely make a stronger impression. You can expect a professional piece to have…
- Enhanced graphics and imagery
- Moving pictures
- Brighter colors and increased clarity
- Music overlays and video backgrounds
As with anything we do, understanding what we wish to accomplish through our efforts is necessary to the success of those efforts. If you simply wish to use a different, more engaging medium for sharing information with your visitors, DIY vlogging is probably for you. If you would like to make a more powerful statement and impression on your visitors though, a more professional video production is what you need.
The choice is yours, of course, just as the choice to begin vlogging is yours.