Video Marketing – The way Of The Future?

Attendees to MLS Tech Fair - Camille and Juan of All Star Real Estate Brokers

On October 14th, I attended the MLS 9th Annual Tech Fair in Woodbury NY and was intrigued by the vast differences in opinions of the panelists discussing the topic , “Utilizing Social Media Video To Expand  Your Business”.  Some thought a professionally made video was more effective while others thought that an amateur home made video — made with your phone — could be just as effective.

Bob Birkentail of Optimum Homes at newsday.com, was all about creating a story board with a very structured way of producing the video. This included an introduction, main topic and a closing with the additions of  background music and images that enhanced the theme or story line.

Ines Hegedus of Majestic Properties, was all about capturing whatever took our fancy with a phone camera or any other medium available, unscripted but  authentic. Here she is doing another in her series of Mojito Madness Reviews.

I was somewhat hesitant about using homemade videos in social media marketing camapign but having watched Ines’ videos and noting the audience’s spontaneous reaction during her presentation, I am ready to venture into that arena. Of course the fact that homemade videos were cost very little is a great advantage.

Whatever your views and personal bias towards posting videos to your website, Facebook or LinkedIn pages, here are some facts you might want to give some consideration to.

1. Video is enticing to the consumer because it combines both the visual and audio appeal of the television as well as the interactivity and easy access of the internet.
2. It is a lot less expensive than the more traditional forms of marketing, as disseminating videos cost nothing as compared to TV time, newspaper space or billboard space.
3. Since videos can be searched before they are played, you can be sure that only those that are interested in your product will watch your videos. This makes your videos more target specific than other forms of advertisement.
4. Videos, compared to text posts, give you more colorful and creative ideas to capture your audience’s interest.

So are you using videos on your website yet?  Do you favor the professional look or are you willing to explore the homemade style? Do share your views and feel free to post links to your videos.