There have always been multiple options for business owners to communicate with their customers. or clients. Videocasting (online video) is the next phase of marketing communication methods. Videocasting is easy and has many applications for small business owners and entrepreneurs. Aside from the initial low-cost purchase of a video camera, which you may already own, there is little expense in producing short digital video clips and adding this feature to your marketing efforts. However, there is a little know-how involved.

Videocasting has some unique advantages for many different types of business owners, like “Main Street” owners. How many times do you get asked the same questions on how to do basic maintenance by your customers? By filming yourself doing small basic maintenance tasks, you can answer these questions one time and provide a fantastic service for current and potential customers and a new reason for potential customers to seek out your site!

Service businesses can offer video to build rapport and loyalty as well. By videotaping an introduction, you introduce your self and team online to potential clients and tell them directly what you do and how they can benefit. Short training videos on various topics help create trust in you. Because they already “know” you, they are more likely to contact you for additional services because they have seen the content you have to offer.

Videocasting isn’t expensive. There are excellent video cameras for $150 or less. You may already have decent video recording capabilities on your digital camera. Digitally recorded video clips should be 3 minutes or less. If you are sitting at a desk, use a tripod. If you are recording a process, it may be better to have someone else managing the video camera for you.

Natural lighting is always preferred, but make sure whatever you use is of decent quality. Keep your filming area quiet. But, do note that many successful entrepreneurs have built loyal followings while breaking every recording rule, like walking when talking or having moderate quality video. In the end, it is about offering something unique to your viewers. Be prepared to do several takes at first while you get used to the recording process.

Don’t worry about purchasing expensive video editing software. More than likely your video camera came with it or there are inexpensive and “freeware” programs available online. All of these will allow you to load your video to your YouTube account, which you should have set up in advance. There are additional benefits to YouTube like the social networking features which allows you to interact and network with viewers. Be sure when you set up your account, you have a link to your company website in your profile!

When your video is uploaded to YouTube, make it public so people can find it easily. YouTube offers the “share” feature and you can retrieve either the URL link or the code to add the video to your website. Videocasting is an inexpensive but very worthwhile marketing tool that can help you stand out from your competitors!

With 30 years of consulting experience, Steven Schlagel offers training and coaching for startups, entrepreneurs and small business owners. Check his site for more articles to increase your success!

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