Tips for conducting a video interview

ProductivityCategory
3 min read
Nick Tibbets

According to comScore®, 64 percent of people are more likely to buy a product online after watching a video. That’s an impressive number. And an interview-style video is one of the easiest and most effective types of video to showcase your small business’s products and services. Think creating an interview video seems intimidating? It’s not! With a few basic pointers, you can create a spot that entices customers to do business with you.

Check out this list of quick tips to help you knock your first on-camera interview out of the park:

Get equipped.

Obviously, you’ll need a camera. These come in many shapes, sizes and prices – and you can even use a decent smartphone. Do your research to find the best camera for your needs. A wireless microphone will make for a more professional sounding video by helping reduce background noises. To keep the camera steady and record videos on your own, use a tripod, or sit your camera on an eye-level, flat surface. And finally, check out video editing software.

Light right.

This is one of the most important to-do items on this list. For a video to look polished, you must use proper lighting. eHow® has a great tutorial for this.

Select an appropriate backdrop.

Let’s say you’re running a small bakery. As a potential consumer I want to see your shop in the background—or at least some signature sweets. A general rule of thumb is to use a background that’s interesting but not distracting. Keep in mind that since you (the “interviewee”) will serve as the focal point, the background might be slightly out-of-focus.

Choose an interviewer.

Select someone who knows your business and products, and can ask the right questions to make sure the point you’re trying to get across hits home. Make sure they speak clearly and, if you plan on featuring this person on camera with you, that they’re dressed appropriately.

Keep it natural.

While planning the points you want to cover during your interview is important, using a script could bore your audience. Let your natural charisma shine through as you answer questions with authentic emotion, always maintaining eye contact with your interviewer. That’s going to let consumers know you’re being genuine and sincere.

Remember to smile.

This one’s self-explanatory. It’s the most important part of any uniform and subtly gives off an aura of confidence.

Once your interview has been filmed and edited, upload it to a video sharing site like YouTube® and embed the video on your own business website. The more places your video lives, the better.