Improving video to boost sales: Best of the MarTechBot

Best of the MarTechBot showcases the MarTechBot’s responses to prompts submitted by readers. See more about how marketers are using MarTechBot here. The language model is based on content from MarTech embedded on top of ChatGPT. The editors of MarTech selected this response for its usefulness and have supplemented it with additional relevant content.

I am the first generative AI chatbot for marketing technology professionals. I am trained with MarTech content. Here’s something somebody asked me! After that, how to improve prompts to get even better answers from me.

Prompt:

What are some tips for taking better videos to use for content creation? Also where are some good sources of inspiration and training for that kind of learning?

Answer:

To enhance your video content creation, consider the following tips:

Tips for taking better videos

1. Plan your content: Outline your video’s purpose, key messages, and structure. A well-thought-out script or storyboard can help keep your content focused.

2. Invest in good equipment: While you don’t need the most expensive gear, a decent camera (even a smartphone with a good camera) and a tripod can significantly improve video quality. Consider using external microphones for better audio.

3. Lighting matters: Natural light is ideal, but if you’re shooting indoors, invest in softbox lights or ring lights to ensure your subject is well-lit and visually appealing.

4. Composition and framing: Use the rule of thirds to create balanced and engaging shots. Ensure your subject is well-framed and avoid cluttered backgrounds that can distract viewers.

5. Stabilization: Use a tripod or gimbal to avoid shaky footage. If you’re filming handheld, practice steady movements to maintain a professional look.

6. Engage your audience: Speak clearly and with enthusiasm. Make eye contact with the camera to create a connection with your viewers.

7. Edit thoughtfully: Use editing software to cut unnecessary parts, add transitions, and incorporate graphics or text overlays. This can enhance the overall flow and professionalism of your video.

8. Optimize for platforms: Tailor your video format and length to the platform you’re using (e.g., shorter videos for social media, longer for YouTube).

Sources of inspiration and training

1. YouTube channels: Channels like Peter McKinnon, Film Riot, and DSLR Video Shooter offer tutorials, tips, and inspiration for video creation.

2. Online courses: Platforms like Udemy, Skillshare, and Coursera provide comprehensive courses on video production and editing, often taught by industry professionals.

3. Social media: Follow creators on platforms like Instagram and TikTok to see trending styles and techniques. Engaging with their content can spark your creativity.

4. Industry blogs and websites: Websites like No Film School and Videomaker offer articles, tutorials, and resources for aspiring videographers.

5. Community forums: Engage with communities on Reddit (e.g., r/VideoEditing) or Facebook groups dedicated to video production for tips, feedback, and inspiration.

6. Workshops and meetups: Look for local workshops or meetups where you can learn from experienced videographers and network with fellow creators.

By combining these tips with the right resources, you can significantly improve your video content creation skills and produce engaging, high-quality videos.

Dig deeper: What makes content go viral, backed by research

Updated prompt:

Here’s one way this prompt could be refined to gather more specific, actionable information. MarTechBot now has 10+ personas to provide more targeted responses. For this prompt, try selecting the marketing manager persona. There are many possibilities, depending on the human user’s industry and main objectives:

• Before we start, you are a marketing manager for an outdoor apparel brand available direct-to-consumer and through boutique retailers. The brand wants to boost holiday sales with better video assets. What are the three top ways you would recommend improving video to boost sales? Please list what tools marketers should use and on which channels the videos should appear. How will this boost sales? Please keep language simple so everybody on the marketing team will understand.

The key elements and enhancements to this prompt are as follows:

(Task)

What are the three top ways you would recommend improving video to boost sales?

(Context)

You are a marketing manager for an outdoor apparel brand available direct-to-consumer and through boutique retailers. The brand wants to boost holiday sales with better video assets.

(Format)

Please list what tools marketers should use and on which channels the videos should appear. How will this boost sales?

(Tone)

Please keep language simple so everybody on the marketing team will understand.

Updated answer:

To boost holiday sales for our outdoor apparel brand using better video assets, here are three top recommendations:

1. Create engaging product videos

What to do: Produce high-quality videos showcasing our products in action. Highlight features like durability, comfort, and style by showing them being used in outdoor settings (e.g., hiking, camping).

Tools to use:

• Cameras: DSLR or mirrorless cameras for high-quality footage.
• Editing software: Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro for professional editing.

Channels to use:

• Website: Embed videos on product pages.
• YouTube: Create a dedicated channel for product showcases.

How this boosts sales: Engaging product videos help customers visualize how the apparel performs in real-life situations, increasing their confidence in making a purchase.

2. Leverage user-generated content (UGC)

What to do: Encourage customers to share their own videos wearing our products. This can include testimonials or adventure clips featuring our apparel.

Tools to use:

• Social media platforms: Instagram and TikTok for easy sharing.
• Hashtag campaigns: Create a unique hashtag to track submissions.

Channels to use:

• Instagram Stories/Reels: Share UGC to build community and authenticity.
• TikTok: Use trending sounds and challenges to reach a wider audience.

How this boosts sales: UGC builds trust and authenticity, as potential customers see real people enjoying our products, which can lead to increased conversions.

3. Run holiday-themed video campaigns

What to do: Develop short, festive videos that highlight holiday gift ideas, special promotions, or limited-time offers. Use storytelling to connect emotionally with viewers.

Tools to use:

• Animation software: Canva or Adobe After Effects for animated videos.
• Video editing apps: InShot or Animoto for quick edits on mobile.

Channels to use:

• Facebook and Instagram Ads: Target specific demographics with paid ads.
• Email marketing: Include video links in holiday newsletters.

How this boosts sales: Holiday-themed campaigns create urgency and excitement, encouraging customers to make purchases as gifts or for themselves during the festive season.

By focusing on engaging product videos, leveraging user-generated content, and running holiday-themed campaigns, we can create a strong video marketing strategy. These efforts will enhance customer engagement, build trust, and drive sales during the holiday season.

Now it’s your turn to give MarTechBot a try. It’s free and includes multiple expert personas to choose from, as well as an image generator.