You don’t need a degree in marketing to promote your video production; just the right tools and some solid tactics.
Starting a video production company or career in film is hard work. Growing your portfolio and clientele might be even more difficult. The trick is knowing how to market your brand. As an artist or entrepreneur, marketing doesn’t always come easy. The odds are that your area of expertise is in something other than marketing and you’d rather be crafting your next video shoot rather than crafting marketing tactics.
However, the truth is that you really don’t have to have a degree in marketing to know how to promote your video production skills and services. All you need are a few, niche-specific marketing ideas. With that in mind, what follows are some underrated tactics you can use to promote your video production endeavors.
Know Your Market
This is pretty basic, but you’d be surprised how often it’s overlooked. If you’re introducing your services to a new market, spend time getting to know who your competition is, what their strengths and weaknesses are, and what you could implement to set your company apart from the rest.
Never make the mistake of undercutting your competition. Why? This could put you at a competitive disadvantage. Low rates could signal potential clients that your services are sub-par and you may end up losing a connection with other companies in your area.
Also, consider where your interests lie and find out if there’s a gap in the market. For example, if you find there are many wedding videographers in your area, your chances of succeeding in that field are minimal. Consider other areas such as real estate marketing, entertainment, or corporate video services.
Network
Networking online or in person is almost always the best way to promote your video production skills. You can always take the initiative to message a potential client or collaborator via social media or email, but don’t be afraid to physically put yourself out there.
On all those same platforms where you might digitally interact, you can also research upcoming networking events, mixers, and other social meet-ups where you can make more personal, memorable connections. These personal connections make it easier for people to feel confident sending some work your way. Be authentic and approachable. Let potential partners feel special by engaging with them and learning more about their product, service, or other specialty. And don’t forget your business cards!
Use Social Media
Social media also provides you with one of the easiest ways to promote and market your company. However, do not expect immediate results. Social media marketing takes time and effort.
The great thing about social media is that it allows you to connect with current and potential fans and partners, get feedback, and engage in conversation. While you don’t want your accounts to come across as being solely a promotional vehicle from the onset, you still need to make sure to strategically place marketing ads and promotions.
Ask For Referrals
In the video production industry, whether you’re doing big budget film work or commercial work, it’s all about who can vouch for your services. It’s therefore important to seriously consider referrals.
If you have an amazing connection with clients or collaborators and they’re happy with the results, ask them to provide you with a few words about their experience. These could be put up on your website as testimonials, on LinkedIn as endorsements, or on Facebook as reviews.
To establish credibility, be sure to provide the name of the references or their company name. You want to make sure that interested parties can confirm your references’ reliability by contacting them if they so choose.
Offer Live Streaming
There’s a huge demand for live streaming content, especially among businesses looking to market their products and services.
According to Business Insider, 88% of advertisers have stated they might or definitely will invest in live stream video advertising sometime in the future. By adding this to your services, you are not only making yourself more marketable, you are also differentiating yourself from the crowd.
Let Your Work Speak For Itself
Quality work speaks for itself. Once clients and coworkers see the quality of your service, they’ll tell others about your skills and professionalism.
When working with a client, ensure that you plan and develop the strategy for your film carefully. Clients easily notice a rush job and may choose not to use your services again. Take your time to exceed their expectations and this will open more doors for you in the future.
These are some of the best tactics you can use to promote your video production skills and services. Remember to focus on achieving your clients’ or partners’ visions while still incorporating your unique style and skill. In time, you will not only establish credibility but get invaluable referrals from those you’ve worked with.