Making a Self-Promoting Video

I made  a short video to formally introduce myself and let my readers in on my business.

Let's face it, if you are in direct sales you aren't only selling product, you have to sell yourself as well. Video is one of the best platforms to do this, because it allows viewers to really connect with you.

So let me go into how I shot this video. In this post I won't discuss how to edit your video.

To get started you need to make sure you have your tools, you'll need:

1. Your smartphone.
2. a Selfie Stick or something to prop up your phone. 
3. Whatever props you are going to use in your video (don't be just a talking head).
4. Your BEST Personality - don't be shy!
5. Video editing software on your computer, on a Mac iMovie is the best solution, on a Windows machine MovieMaker is best - they come included with your machines  (Note: there are also video editing apps for your phone but they don't provide as much control). 

No worries, if editing your own video sounds super intimidating, you can hire someone to do the editing for your. There are a ton of pros on Fiverr.com that will do the task for you. 

It's time to plan out  your video, this shouldn't take you more than 30 minutes to do:

1. Start by planning out what you are going to say in your video. You don't have to write it down word for word - an outline or some scribbled notes should do.  
2. Gather any props you are going to use - I'm big on providing visuals - you don't just want to be a talking head. 
3. GET DRESSED! This is always a challenge for me because I spend most of the day in PJs (I work from home as an Instructional Designer - no one sees me).  Make sure to put on some makeup - even if you just put on some lipstick it will make a world of difference. Also put on a nice top. Unless you are shooting a full body video - no one will know you are in your husband's boxers. 
4. Decide where you will shoot your video. Pick an uncluttered space with good lighting (you want lots of natural sunlight).  Remove any distracting items around the space where you will shoot your video. Create the ambiance. 
5. Practice what you are going to say in front of a mirror several times, so it's as natural as possible. 

Now, that you have your plan and are all dolled up, it's time to shoot your video.  This is the easiest part. Don't be shy, just let it roll. 

1. Put your phone on Airplane Mode so you won't have any disruptions during recording. 
2. Prop your phone up, you want it to be at eye level with you. Once propped up, take a photo of the background alone. Then set the timer and take a photo with you in front of the background so you can see where you need to stand. You don't want to be too far from the camera. 
3. Hit Record and just start your talking. If you mess up ---- PAUSE yourself, take a deep breath and repeat the line.  You'll want to repeat the same lines at least twice so you can get the best clip for the final edit. 

Once you have recorded your video, all you have to do is transfer your file to your computer. You can do that by either connecting your phone to your computer and dragging and dropping the file to your desktop or using dropbox.com and sending the recording there right from your phone. 

So your homework for today it to go out and shoot your own video! Next time I'll give you some tips for editing your own video.