Boost Online Video Presence for Your Small Business

Want to boost your video presence and boost sales within a shorter time span? If you're looking for a bootstrap method to increase sales, look no further.

As you've no doubt noticed, online video is booming. It's the fastest way to get your message out to the public — without having to spend a fortune buying business lists, attending trade shows or investing in advertising.

If you want to get the most out of your online video, there's a thing or two that is essential to know.

Rule 1. Be Authentic

In online video, you show up! If you are genuine, natural and completely yourself — it's obvious to the viewer. On the other hand, if you are arrogant, pompous and self-centered…well, everyone can tell.

When you're on camera, a lot of the little things count big. Master the art of speaking conversationally on camera. Your audience is listening and watching!

Rule 2. Do Not Overspend

Strange rule, right? Well, one of the wonderful facts today is this: audiences are kind of bored and fed up with super-slick videos. They don't trust them.

This can work for you, if you're just starting out or working on a shoestring budget. The grainy, fuzzy video that is shot in a raw style often outperforms the all-slick studio version. Go figure. This is one time when a low budget can work for your business instead of against it.

Rule 3. Speak The Truth

To paraphrase an ancient proverb: A lie needs a thousand lies.

If you lie on camera, your lie grows exponentially. A lot of people will see and hear what you're saying. Not just a little local circle of people. A global network. A little fudging, an unchecked fact, an innocent cover-up can have huge negative affects that last a long, long time.

Don't do it. It's not worth it.

Hint: if you don't know an answer, say so. If you aren't sure of a fact, check it or leave it out. When in doubt…leave it out.

Rule 4. Be Fresh

Technology changes. Trends change. Public expectations change. And your online video productions need to keep up with the ever-changing landscape.

Even if you do a great video today, you're going to need to re-do it soon. Update frequently. It will keep your brand and your business looking fresh and current.

Rule 5. Provide Links To Your Site

Let's say you've made your online video. That is a moment to celebrate — it's fantastic. But if you don't have a link to your site, your video has a very limited shelf life. It is like throwing snow on a sunny street. All the beauty and inspiration will melt in seconds. Your video will fade into oblivion.

Links help viewers know what to do next. This is the true reason why you're making your video. Make it easy for viewers to take action, and don't be shy about it.

At this point, you might be wondering, "But isn't that link thing too pushy?" Not at all. Links to your site are helpful. They are like sign posts pointing the way and showing clearly what to do next. This is very helpful for busy people who are in search of valuable products and services. Like yours!

For instance, if this short article were an online video, this would be a good place to include a link. Right about now it would be helpful to know where to find a resource to get essential skills for giving video presentations. So since we're on the topic, here is a great link to an online course on presentation skills: http://www.presentationstoryboarding.com

At this site, you get specific instruction, a 'score yourself' quiz, blueprints – plus wonderful video tutorials to improve your confidence on camera – and off camera.

Now, let's recap. What's the good news about these rules? They make sense. Each one is simple, every day common sense. Plus all these rules all easy to do – on your own, and on a limited budget. Even in a tough economy, you can grow your skills and improve your bottom line. See, it's not so rough.

Don't give up on learning online video presentation skills so you can communicate effectively to your audience. With the right skills and training you can reach more customers and grow your business. For instant video access to learn how this works, visit http://www.presentationstoryboarding.com/