Discover how to turn camera-shy experts into confident presenters with easy coaching tips. Learn diplomatic ways to manage differing opinions during video projects. Is it time to update those old videos? Find out why talking heads still reign supreme. Get insights on video analytics for better viewer engagement and retention. Plus, uncover whether shelling out for fancy cameras is really necessary. Planning and collaboration are key to elevating video production quality—don’t miss these essential strategies!
Coaching camera-shy subject-matter experts requires understanding their comfort levels and using supportive techniques to enhance their confidence.
Navigating differing opinions in video production involves collaborating through research-backed strategies while demonstrating the effectiveness of established best practices.
Deep dives
Coaching Subject Matter Experts on Video Presence
To coach subject matter experts (SMEs) for video presentations, it's essential to assess their comfort levels with being on camera. This involves understanding whether they are terrified or moderately comfortable, and then adapting the coaching style accordingly. For those who may struggle, being physically present during their recording can help ease anxiety, allowing them to engage naturally as if conversing with a friend. Encouraging them to practice their delivery, possibly by rehearsing with prompts or using timers to achieve desired response lengths, can also enhance their confidence and effectiveness on camera.
Persuading Others to Embrace Video Best Practices
When faced with individuals who may resist video best practices, it is important to be open to their opinions while strategically steering the project toward proven methods. Using research and successful examples to support your points can help alleviate skepticism and foster collaboration. Demonstrating the benefits of established video rules through experimentation may also persuade them to see the value, especially if they witness the positive impact of following these guidelines firsthand. Ultimately, the focus should be on making changes that yield results without being confrontational or dismissive of others' perspectives.
Updating Old Video Content
The decision to edit or recreate outdated video content involves assessing the nature of the existing videos and the relevance of new topics. If the new content can be integrated seamlessly without compromising the original video, it may be a suitable approach to update the existing material. However, if significant changes in the topic or style have occurred over five years, creating a fresh video might be the best option to ensure clarity and modern appeal. Considering the available project files and the overall quality of updates versus remakes is crucial, as this decision impacts both budget and effectiveness.
The Preference for Talking Head Videos
While some may question why talking head videos remain popular, they often arise from their simplicity for creators rather than audience preference. Viewers may not necessarily prefer this style; rather, it is an easy format that fosters a personal connection with the presenter. Ultimately, it is essential to balance talking heads with engaging visuals, ensuring videos remain informative and captivating without solely relying on this format. Creators should strive for creativity in presentations and think critically about how to effectively illustrate their messages to enhance viewer engagement.
You asked, and we’re here to answer! Host of The Visual Lounge Matt Pierce has collected some of the most burning questions video trainers have about the art and science of making great videos.
Ever wondered how to coach a camera-shy subject-matter expert to shine on screen? Matt's got you covered with tips that'll turn even the most reluctant expert into a video pro. And for those battling with stubborn colleagues who think they know better than the "rules of video," fear not! Matt shares diplomatic strategies to work with differing opinions without rocking the boat.
We also address whether to update or remake outdated videos, why talking heads seem to dominate videos, and how to think about video analytics like engagement and viewer retention. Matt also gives his take on whether you really need to drop thousands on a new camera to make a great video.
Learning points from the episode include:
00:00 - 01:56 Introduction
01:56 - 06:00 How to make subject-matter experts feel comfortable on camera
06:00 - 08:35 How to work with differing opinions on how to make a great video
08:35 - 12:03 Should you update or remake older videos?
12:03 - 14:47 Why are talking head videos so popular?
14:47 - 16:59 How to think about data analytics
16:59 - 20:15 First 5 seconds are critical for engagement
20:15 - 25:14 How to make videos engaging
25:14 - 27:05 What equipment is really needed to make a good video?
27:05 - 30:04 How can you get colleagues to understand the power of pre-planning?