“Video Killed the Radio Star…” Catchy song lyrics never die. Do you remember this 1979 tune by Buggles along with Bruce Woolley and the Camera Club? I never knew who the artist was, but the tune still sticks in my head. As we think about the impact of video on social marketing and blogging, there are some parallels.
In today’s world, would we need to change the lyrics to “Video killed the blog post”?
Or has video helped the world of blogs?
Now that many people’s attention span is that of a gnat, creating attention-grabbing content gets trickier. Surprising your fans with multimedia is simple when you combine these 2 powerful mediums… Blogging + Video = Success
Benefits of blogging
- SEO. Having a consistent blogging schedule and reliable tags and categories will boost your SEO.
- Broaden your brand. Managing multiple channels (web, social, and video) expands your reach and gives people content they’re looking for in the medium they prefer. Did you know: Companies who blog receive 97% more links to their website?
- Connect with new audiences. Once you begin integrating your marketing across a variety of channels, you’ll find your content gets shared and reaches new viewers.
- Did you know that 33% of millennials rely mostly on blogs before they make a purchase?
- Start a conversation. Amplifying your message through your blog is an essential way to start new conversations, which leads to stronger relationships. Did you know: Small businesses that blog get 126% more lead growth than small businesses that do not blog?
Blog Tips & Tools
Ensuring that your blog is connected to your website and has an analytics tool is essential to your success. Here are some other tips that I’ve found helpful over the years:
- Headline analyzer tool. Want to be able to write better blog titles? A strong title will help your blog get found in an online search. Sometimes understanding what makes a title or headline a hit can be a bit of a mystery. Here’s a secret weapon in my toolbox.
- Content inspiration. Do you sit down and instantly develop a severe case of writer’s block? Here’s some inspiring content ideas to stimulate your creativity. Do you hate to write? Check out these tips for non-writers.
- Optimize your blog for mobile readership/consumption. Did you know: 80 percent of Facebook users are mobile users?
Benefits of Video
Are you among the 87% of marketers who use video? If not, you may be missing some key pieces of business as 90% of users say that seeing a video about a product is helpful in the decision process. Here are other reasons to jump-start your video production:
- Popular form of content consumption. Just think how many videos you’ve watched this past week. OK, those cute animal videos do count for something. If you’re like many others, 1/3 of your online time is spent watching videos. This extends to your clients as well. Imagine the reach YOUR video could achieve?
- Ranked highly by social platforms. Video posts have 135% greater organic reach than photo posts. This means your native video (not a link from YouTube or Vimeo) will generate more eyeballs than a simple text post. Weaving slideshows and live video into your social posts will elevate your reach and engagement. Here’s how to quickly create your next slideshow.
- Showcase your expertise. Video is the perfect medium for you to provide a quick travel tip, a hot destination idea, or a succinct benefit. While many people watch a video without the sound, it’s critical to add captions as you’re creating your video. Tip: choose an intriguing background when you’re filming.
- Buying increases after viewing a video. Did you know:After watching a video, 64% of viewers are more likely to purchase online.
Video Tips & Tools
While many people think video is too techy or challenging, there are some really easy tools to get you into the action quickly.
- Live streaming video like Facebook Live, Periscope, and Meerkat are powerful tools to reach your audience in real-time and inspire interaction.
- Tip: Invest in a good portable external microphone. This will come in handy when you’re interviewing or broadcasting from your next site inspection. A steady hand along with a selfie stick or tri-pod will minimize shakiness.
- Keep it short and use humor!
- Include video and still images. By using a tool like Screen Cast-o-Matic, iMovie, or MovieMaker, you can have variety as well as include transitions and music.
- Segment video into 10 second sound bites for short form video posts. These short videos can be posted to Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and used as short social ads.
The Power of Both
Imagine the potential of combining the powers of video and blogging. Success! Structuring your content marketing to optimize your time and talent will help you reach more people and amplify your message. Here are some tips:
- Embed video in your blog. What a great way to capture attention and bring life to your posts! Plus this gives reader/viewers another way to consume your information.
- Combine your video blog posts into an e-book. Since you’ve already done the work, now you get to bask in the repurposing sunshine.
- Reuse the video in social posts. Use the video to grab attention and then link back to your blog post.
When you’re able to present content in a myriad of ways to suit a myriad of client needs and styles, you’ll find your content marketing will be singing! The goal is to get it to be as catchy as some memorable songs.
What successes have you had combining video and blogging?
Catherine Heeg, international speaker and trainer, focuses on social media marketing & communication for the travel and tourism industry. Join the conversation and connect with her at www.cmsspeaking.com and socially.
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