How to get started using video in sales

Getting started using video in your sales process can feel like a scary thing. Some individuals may feel uncomfortable in front of a camera and fear being recorded. In this post we will take a look at how to get started in the easiest way possible.

Find a recording tool

It can be daunting to break away from traditional sales methods and embrace a new approach, especially if one's comfort zone is reliant on non-visual methods. There is a fairly easy fix for this, but before we take a look the actual recording process, you will first need your video tool in place. In this example we are suggesting Vidyard:

1. Go to vidyard.com
2. Sign up for a free account
3. Install the extension to your browser
4. Click on the extension button on the top right of your browser and pin your Vidyard extension
5. Click on the Vidyard extension to log in
6. Allow Vidyard to access your computer’s camera and microphone. You might have to enable Screen Recording permissions in your Security & Privacy settings. If so, you will also have to restart your computer when you are finished.

Getting started

When you are all set it is time to get comfortable with your acting skills. The number one most important thing is to just start practicing. Here are some essential tips to help get started with your recordings:

• Choose a recording option: When you click on the Vidyard icon, you will be able to choose whether you want to record your screen, yourself and the screen, or simply yourself. Your choice depends on the purpose of the video. For example, if the purpose is to demo a tool or a website, choose an appropriate option that allows you to show your screen.
• Prepare in advance: If you are recording only yourself, prepare notes and put them in the section for speaker notes. If you are about to share your screen or specific tabs, make sure to have everything ready as you start recording to avoid losing momentum.
• Use bullet points: While many individuals would like to prepare a script it is preferable to practice some bullet points instead. A script could be difficult to remember and it is easy to get thrown off. Reading through a few bullet points beforehand helps you remember what you were supposed to talk about, rather than what to say exactly.
• Do not be a perfectionist: It is easy to end up in a seemingly infinite loop of retakes. When this happens, try to remember that most people will not notice what you consider to be mistakes. Some hesitance or irregularity could actually be positive and considered a human touch.
• Keep it simple: Do not over complicate your video. The whole purpose is to make a fun, informative and easily digested piece of content. Keep it short and happy. Typically, you will end up saying much more than what would fit in a regular email anyway.
• Start with your colleagues: Why not start practicing by sending some internal videos to your colleagues? This is a great chance to get comfortable in front of the camera and ask for feedback.

Now that you know how to get started, remember that the key to get comfortable is to start recording!