As video marketing becomes increasingly important for building personal brands, many entrepreneurs are looking for ways to get started in the medium. Emmy-nominated producer Debbie Mitchell, who has worked with several well-known media personalities, offers valuable advice on how independent professionals and entrepreneurs can use video to create a strong personal brand. Mitchell emphasizes the importance of building time into your schedule for creating video content and getting comfortable in front of the camera. She also stresses the need for a content strategy that addresses the pain points of your target audience and offers solutions.
When it comes to creating video content, Mitchell suggests focusing on either educational or entertaining content. She advises against worrying about running out of material, as inspiration can be found in various sources. Consistency in producing content is key to building an audience, as it helps establish expectations and encourages engagement with viewers. Additionally, Mitchell recommends starting with basic equipment like an iPhone, ring light, and microphone to get started quickly and easily.
When it comes to appearance on camera, Mitchell suggests maintaining a look that is comfortable and representative of your brand. She advises against heavy makeup, as it can make you feel self-conscious. Additionally, she cautions against trying to go viral by following trends, as it may not align with your brand message. Mitchell highlights the success of ethnobotanist Mark Plotkin’s video podcast, which quickly gained a large following and raised awareness for his cause with the help of Mitchell’s production team.
Setting a reasonable budget for video production is important, as it will depend on the types of content you want to invest in. Mitchell recommends considering factors such as the frequency of video uploads and whether to invest in livestreaming. Livestreaming can be a cost-effective way to produce long-form content that can be repurposed for other platforms, extending the reach of your personal brand efforts. Overall, Mitchell’s advice emphasizes the importance of planning, consistency, and quality in using video to build a personal brand that resonates with your target audience.