5 Misconceptions about Online Video

 Online videos represent an important component of OpenView Venture Partner’s Online Marketing Strategy because they characterize a great method for driving website traffic. Though many brands consider using video as part of their marketing strategies, they are often scared by a few common misconceptions.

Under30CEO posted a great blog which exposed the 5 biggest misconceptions of online video. I listed them below and included my thoughts on each:

1) Your Videos Should be Short:

• The shorter the video, the more chance viewers will remain watching until the end, as is evident by my last post here. However, good content is good content and a lengthier video featuring truly compelling content will hold a relevant viewer’s attention as well. If your content requires a longer video, it will suffice, but in most situations consolidation is recommended. 

2) You must be really tech savvy to master online video:

• I am living proof you do not need to be a “super techie” to produce great online video. Decide if you want to edit the video on your own, or acquire the assistance of others. We chose to purchase an HD camera that requires the use of Final Cut Pro to edit the footage. As a result, we use a freelance video editor to tackle the piles of footage. If we chose a different camera, we could have edited it ourselves. I have seen great video produced from iMovie or flipCam software (both are incredibly easy to use), so don’t let the technology stand in your way!  

3) If it isn’t professional it will hurt your brand:

• I am a strong supporter of the Good Enough Revolution (blog on that topic here) and this misconception fits perfectly. Your videos do NOT need to be perfect. Sure, a polished video is nice, but an overly produced masterpiece is not necessary, especially for an expansion stage company! Don’t use this as an excuse to get sloppy–but use it as a reality check when you are obsessing over the minute details.

4) You must be “really good” on camera:

• While being a confident speaker will always help, perfection is not essential! The occasional “umm” or fumbling of words displays authenticity to your viewer. An overly polished delivery may seem too rehearsed and potentially “salesy” depending on the content of the video.

5) You need a green screen:

• False! We thought about getting a green screen, but they are much more difficult to use than a traditional background. Also, a green screen projects the idea that you are producing perfect, television quality videos instead of a more relaxed environment for your subjects. We opted for Asian screens for our background–you will see these videos released in the coming weeks!

Question of the week: What are your thoughts on these misconceptions? Any tips or suggestions for those getting started with online video?