Kickstart Your Personal Brand with Pro Video Tips from an Emmy-Nominee

With YouTube standing proudly as the second-largest search engine and TikTok turning brands into viral sensations overnight, entrepreneurs are increasingly aware of the untapped potential in video content. But, how does one dive into this ocean of possibilities without being the next Gary Vee or a comedian ready for their Instagram close-up? To demystify this realm, I spoke with Debbie Mitchell, an Emmy-nominated producer with over two decades of experience working alongside media heavyweights like Geraldo Rivera, Barbara Walters, and Bryant Gumbel. Here’s Mitchell’s expert advice on leveraging video marketing to bolster your personal brand.

First and foremost, Mitchell emphasizes the dichotomy of video content: educational and entertaining. While entertaining videos often dominate platforms like TikTok and Instagram, it’s crucial for entrepreneurs to carve out their niche. The cornerstone of any successful video strategy is consistency. Whether you’re posting educational tutorials or entertaining clips, your audience needs to know when to expect new content. Mitchell insists on a predictable schedule, suggesting a lineup like Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. This regularity not only keeps your audience engaged but also helps build a loyal following over time.

The good news for those intimidated by high production costs is that you don’t need a Hollywood budget to get started. Mitchell recommends beginning with basic tools: an iPhone, a ring light, and a high-quality microphone. While audiences might forgive subpar visuals, poor audio is a deal-breaker. Investing in a good microphone ensures that your message comes through loud and clear. With these three essentials, anyone can start producing professional-looking videos with minimal hassle.

However, Mitchell cautions against the viral video trap. While the allure of an overnight sensation is tempting, chasing trends often leads to straying from your core message. Entrepreneurs should focus on staying true to their brand’s voice and mission, which is what initially attracted their audience. Consistency in messaging and content quality is key to sustainable growth. A viral video might give you a fleeting moment of fame, but a consistent brand message builds a long-term relationship with your audience.

For those willing to invest more seriously in video content, Mitchell’s production team offers a robust solution. They have successfully live-streamed, edited, and posted content to YouTube for various brands. Budget considerations will vary based on the type of content and frequency. Serious video marketing efforts can run into a couple of thousand dollars a month. Before diving in, entrepreneurs should consider their goals: How often do they want to post videos? Are they interested in live streaming?

Mitchell is a proponent of live streaming for a good reason. Although it requires a heftier initial investment, live streams can be edited into shorter, more digestible pieces of content. This approach allows for versatile use across multiple platforms, maximizing your content’s reach and effectiveness. Essentially, a single live stream can be repurposed into various formats, making it a cost-effective strategy in the long run.

In summary, while the world of video marketing may seem daunting, the path to success is paved with consistency, authenticity, and smart investments. By following Mitchell’s advice, entrepreneurs can leverage the power of video to build a compelling and enduring personal brand. Whether you’re just starting with an iPhone or ready to delve into live streaming, the opportunities are vast and waiting to be explored.