Last Updated on Jan 14, 2013 by Jenna Scaglione
Do you know how you can use video marketing to increase traffic and drive sales?
It’s not a mystery why so many businesses use videos and receive hefty returns. But, in spite of the promising statistics, few Ecommerce stores participate.
If you are on the fence or you think that video marketing is too difficult, you are not alone. The prevailing theory is that videos…
- Are too difficult; you need a professional to create them
- Too expensive
- Won’t have an effect on sales
Year ago, it WAS too expensive to create videos. Today, with the declining costs and easy-to-implement strategies, video marketing is accessible to the masses.
There are many reasons why Ecommerce stores should participate in video marketing. Let’s take a look at some of the top ones:
1. It’s Visual
Your industry is based on visual stimulation. You sell products that can’t be touched through the screen so the more you can integrate visual elements into your marketing, the more connection your customers will feel to your products. Videos can be that strong connection that removes the skepticism and allows customers to feel safe when making a purchase.
2. It’s Personalized
Customers will feel comfortable purchasing on your site when they see your videos. They will feel you genuinely care, which eliminates their thoughts that you may be a scammer or a site with poor customer service. Videos convey a level of professionalism that rivals many other strategies.
3. It Demonstrates
Do you sell a product that demands a demonstration? Some products must be seen “in action” to be appreciated. Use videos to further detail the uses of your products and discuss any “how to” information along with it.
4. It Engages
Consumers love to communicate, and videos allow them to interact with you. Use your videos to welcome customers and develop professional connections with them. Make them feel comfortable engaging with your brand and when they are ready to purchase, they will remember your products.
5. It Drives Traffic
You can use SEO techniques to rank your videos in Google and drive traffic to your website. Once the views and comments increase, you can also rank in YouTube for your keyword.
Here are some tips:
- Use your keywords in the title, description and video file name.
- Build links to your YouTube channel and your individual videos.
- Embed your videos on your website or blog.
- Use annotations in your videos to lead customers directly to your website from the video. They are easy to add in YouTube.
- Share your videos on your social sites.
- Embed a YouTube subscribe widget on your website.
- Think about video content such as: 5-part series, “how to” tips to using your products, tips and tricks, company news, discounts and promotions, contests, etc.
6. It is NOT expensive
If you have a decent video camera and a tripod, you can shoot a video. If you do not want to film yourself talking, consider screen capture videos or recording creative Powerpoint presentations. You will need video recording and editing software like Camtasia for this. Camtasia has an easy learning curve and it is a one-time investment well worth the price. You can also record yourself on your website navigating the internet, but these videos are generally more effective in the internet marketing industry or similar niches.
The above are just some of the benefits of Ecommerce video marketing. In Part 2, I will discuss what types of videos you can create as well as some marketing tips you don’t want to miss.