Overcoming Fear of Making Videos: A Small Business Owner’s Guide to Effective Video Marketing

Overcoming the fear that comes from recording a video for YouTube or even short form videos can seem overwhelming, I know, but you are not alone. Here are some real, usable tips to help you get off on the right foot. 

Video marketing has become a crucial tool for small business owners in today’s digital landscape, so much so that not posting videos can be causing you to lose money. However, many entrepreneurs are apprehensive, nervous or even completely anxious about stepping in front of the camera. If you’re among them, it’s okay, you are in good company and absolutely not alone. This article will guide you through the process of overcoming your video anxiety and leveraging the power of video for your small business.

Why Video is Important for Small Business

Recording a short form video has long evolved from doing silly dances and lip-synching to sounds for a laugh. Short Form videos have now become a way for new clients and customers to find you and your business. Videos are highly engaging and captivating. They have the potential to convey complex information in a shorter amount of time, making it easier for your audience to absorb your message. In fact, studies have shown that viewers retain 95% of a message when they watch it in a video compared to 10% when reading it in text. This increased engagement can lead to better brand recall and customer loyalty.

SEO

Did you know that TikTok is the #1 search engine for Gen Z? And as we see a decrease in users for Meta, the number of users, especially with Millennials,  is only going to increase. On Instagram, the current way to get your account in front of new eye (aka potential customers) is through short form video, not from your images. This is in large due to the fact that Instagram has removed searching for “recent hashtags”.  All this to say that short-form videos has increasingly become the best way to increase reach when it comes to social media and it would be a disservice to your business if you don’t take advantage of it. 

Embrace Your Uniqueness and Record on Your Phone

First things first, let’s celebrate your uniqueness! Remember, being shy is not a flaw, but rather a part of what makes you, you. Embrace your authenticity and let it shine through in your videos. The more yourself you are, the more people are going to LOVE you. It’s hard to fake authenticity, so just take a deep breathe and be you. Overcoming the fear of making a video is just of fear of doing something that is unfamiliar. Once you start getting in the habit of recording for your small business, you will quickly figure out what works and what doesn’t and even how little effort it can take to make a viral video. Pro Hint: Viral videos are 97% luck. 

Now, onto the technical side – you don’t need a fancy camera setup to create amazing videos. Utilize your trusty smartphone! Experiment with different angles, lighting, and locations to find what works best for you. With your phone in hand, you have a powerful tool at your disposal.

Some useful tips:

• Use natural lighting. Stand in front of a window or place your product in front of natural sunlight, just make sure it’s not too harsh. 
• Record directly with your camera instead of recording on the app. It will give you a much clearer and crisper video. Don’t use 4K settings, instead use 1080. Most apps can’t support 4K.

Overcoming Common Fears with Practice and Preparation

It’s completely normal to experience fears and self-doubt when faced with recording videos. But trust me, every successful content creator has encountered these same challenges. Overcoming these fears starts with practice and preparation. Scripting your videos can provide a solid foundation and boost your confidence when you hit that record button. Practice in front of a mirror or a supportive friend, and gradually build your comfort level. 

Some Useful Tips:

• Instead of taking a deep breathe and hitting record, start recording, then calm down, (yes, while recording), and then edit out the first part (the part where you are calming down). This will help the video start at a natural place and even remove that dreaded “millenial pause”, if you do it (I know I do it!)
• Don’t expect perfection. It’s okay if it’s not perfect and most folks don’t expect it. 
• Make sure the space behind you (or in front ) is clear. You don’t want any embarrassing or questionable items that can distract from your message. 

Mastering the Art of Storytelling

Storytelling is the magic ingredient that engages your audience and leaves a lasting impact. Craft your videos with a clear beginning, middle, and end. Hook your viewers in the first few seconds, deliver your message effectively, and end with a compelling call-to-action. Inject personal anecdotes, customer testimonials, or relatable experiences to captivate your audience. Grab their attention and keep them coming back for more!

Useful Tips:

• Hooks are great, especially when it comes to platforms like TikTok. These include,
  • “I have the perfect alternative to…”
  • “This is your sign to finally get…”
  • “If you are stressed out, watch this”
  • “Best XYZ on the market”
  • “This is why your XYZ is not working”
• Get access to our Resource Library with Content Ideas

SEO to Boost Your Reach

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the secret sauce behind expanding your video’s visibility. Research relevant keywords and strategically incorporate them in your video title, description, and tags. Consider providing transcripts or subtitles to improve accessibility and searchability. By optimizing your videos for SEO, you’ll attract more viewers and organically grow your online presence.

Useful Tips:

• Use hashtags to reach your target audience. Hashtags should fit into your niche. 
• Use text (where applicable) on the video with your target key words
• Use your keyword in your caption

Let’s Overcome Your Shyness

Shyness should never hold you back from showcasing your brilliance through short-form videos as a small business owner or solopreneur. Embrace your unique qualities and remember that your audience craves authenticity. Utilize your smartphone’s capabilities, experiment with different techniques, and let your creativity soar. Overcome your fears by practicing and viewing each video as an opportunity for growth. Master the art of storytelling to captivate your audience and leave a lasting impact. And don’t forget about the power of SEO to boost your reach and attract new viewers.

Don’t forget, you don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great. 

At Michelle Melo Digital, we understand the unique challenges that small business owners like you face on their entrepreneurial journey. We’re here to support and empower you every step of the way. If you’re in need of additional support, expert tips, or personalized consultations for your small business, fill out the form below. Our team is excited to be your partner in success, helping you navigate the world of e-commerce and unleash your business’s full potential. You’ve found your business’s digital BFF.