The vast majority of coaching clients (that I start to work with) would benefit from being brave and utilising video more. I know that this is one of the hardest aspects of social media for many because we are (in truth) far too self-conscious! But whilst we’re on the subject of cameras and video content creation, there are a few mistruths about social media success. One of which is that you should look a certain age (or way) to become good at being behind the camera. This just isn’t true - besides, I’m confident that it will deepen your customer’s connection with you as well as drive increased visibility of your business. 

Video is so important for Google and social media platform algorithms: it will help you rank higher organically, so you need to start creating more video or go live more frequently. Not sure what to go live with or create a video about? Here’s some ideas to get you started:

1. Collaborate with other (relevant) local businesses in the area and talk ‘shop’ – literally.

2. Do a walk through tour of your shop.

3. Try interviews with suppliers (or manufacturers).

4. Talk through some FAQ’s. Answer the most frequently asked questions you get asked by brides.

5. Show your top three favourite gowns, displayed on mannequins.

6. Interview your brides about their experience with you.

Preparation is key! Whatever the subject is, consider what the viewers will see when you hit record or go live and for that you need to do the following:

1. Tidy up behind you. Ensure you have checked what the viewers will see by selecting video and selfie mode.

2. Use a stand or ring light.  Position camera phone so viewers will see you from the waist up, not just your face.

3. Smile! Be warm! Be friendly! Be happy – your facial expression and body language is everything. Start smiling before you start recording or go live.

4. Prepare what you are going to say.  It’s okay to use notes.  Don’t worry if you fluff it - KEEP GOING if live.

5. Interreact with viewers on a live. Say hi, answer questions, have fun.

6. If it’s pre-recorded don’t fall into the trap of re-recording and re-recording because you fluff one or two words or hesitate.  Go with it, you will improve with time, keep it raw and authentic and real, the more you re-do the worse it can become and the harder it will get.

7. Don’t use the camera like a mirror and flick your hair and comment on yourself.  This is most off putting.  Make it about them not you.  Remember this video is for your customers, it’s not about you.

My last few words of wisdom in order to try and persuade you to do more lives and pieces to film is - and I mean this in the kindest possible way - to ’get over yourself’. Don’t worry about what people think of you, that isn’t what this is about! This is customer service, and an extension of your customer experience, so do it for them and for your followers who love you.