How Can Writers Use Video During the Pandemic?

Earlier, I blogged about how writers can use social media during the pandemic to support their promotional efforts for their books when traditional avenues are literally closed down for them.

Live, in person events are but a fond memory now.

But, that doesn’t mean a writer’s readers can’t see or hear from her.

Let’s talk about that!

What I want to discuss in this blogpost is video and why writers should use it.

Now, I know many writers who react, when I bring this up, by saying either “I don’t want to buy an expensive camera.” or “I don’t have the time to make a lengthy video.”

Well, I’m here to disabuse everyone of both these notions as well as a couple of others.

First off, let’s start with expensive cameras (and associated gear like lighting.)

In the age of the personal, mobile devices, fairly decent videos can be taken easily and affordably.

If you want to edit the video, there are even free and near free video editing tools available which give professional results.

All the major social media channels (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram) support video.

YouTube is available to provide a repository for recordings.

Your blog can be linked to YouTube for your community to find your work.

(Storing videos on your blog/website is not recommended unless you have a very big budget.)

OK, I’ve taken apart that argument, let’s move on to the next one.

And that is videos are lengthy and take time to produce.

Videos don’t have to be lengthy, in fact, most shouldn’t be!

For most purposes on social media, a short (two to three minute) video is enough and can be done easily with your preexisting mobile devices which I referred to above.

Ask a question, read a quote, give holiday greetings.

Short videos can be about almost anything, just don’t forget to use hashtags or tags!

Longer videos for readings or panels are fine too.

None of these videos have to be formal Hollywood productions.

You want an informal dialogue with your community.

That being said, don’t overdo it, I wouldn’t recommend recording while you’re washing the dishes.

(Don’t ask!)

Other reasons for avoiding the use of video are it’s too complicated and it’s too expensive.

The tools today are relatively straight forward and online resources exist to help users.

(And there are always folks like me available to assist if you’re willing to spend a modest sum.)

Too expensive?

Nope, a professional video presence online can be had for little or no money.

If you have some spare funds available then, yes, you can do more with video but for most small users, the results would be marginal at best.

The one element that is critical here and that can’t be purchased is your time.

Yes, a minimum amount of time needs to be set aside to do this and do it right.

But, since as writers, all your events have been cancelled, you should have more than enough time on your hands to do video and to do it right.

Studies have shown that social media with video content gets viewed and shared more than either simple images or plain text.

Why shouldn’t you be using video?

Think about it!

That’s it for now!

Please check-out my 8 step approach for developing a social media program to get some more ideas on how to use social media.

Also, never forget to reach out to either ask questions or to ask for help from someone like myself!
In the meantime, thank you for following and reading my blog!

I look forward to any and all comments that you may have. I will reply to any comments made to this blog post as promptly as I can.

And, remember!

I do this for a living and if I can be of any assistance to either you or your organization, please feel free to call on me. Our initial discussion will be of no charge to you.

I can also be reached at conpsweeney@someddi.com.

My Twitter handle is @conpsweeney.

Stay well!