If you’re not using video in your marketing, you’re missing out on one of the most powerful marketing tools you can use.

In previous issues, we’ve shared some of the software we use that incorpo­rate video. For example, we use Skype to make video calls, Eyejot to send video e-mail, and Camtasia and Jing for desktop recording.

The problem is that when you start mixing Skype calls and webcams, and PowerPoint slides from your desktop, it can get a little confusing. Professional video studios have entire editing consoles with all kinds of special effects, and now you can too, with a program called ManyCam.

Your Own Video Editing Studio!

Of course it has all the “standard” functions like switching audio and video sources for recording videos or live streaming, and lots of professional-looking transitions, and even picture-in-picture displays.

But you can also be creative and even have some fun with different camera and full-screen effects. You can even get downright silly by adding glasses, hats, hair, and masks to your image in real time.

From a more practical perspective, you can use the same webcam in several applications at the same time. ManyCam even gives you the ability to annotate whatever is being shown on the screen, letting you mark up and comment on materials being reviewed or shared on a conference call, much like we do on our Gold Coaching Critique Webinars.

So What Can You Do With All This Video?

Actually, quite a bit! For example, you can record promotional videos on YouTube and switch between “talking head,” desktop, or PowerPoint displays, or a combination of the two as you record them.

You can also use YouTube videos as a support tool to demonstrate how to correctly use a product you’re selling. And if that’s not enough, you can produce videos that are the actual product being sold, for example, a series of instructional videos on how to play guitar.

You can hold live events and stream them from remote offices so people can participate even when they can’t be there in person. Many associations are offering this as an affordable alternative to the travel, food, and lodging expenses associated with attending a conference in person.

Web sites should have videos as well. These can be a special welcome from a company spokesperson or even testimonials from satisfied customers, clients, and members.

Video can also be used to add a personal touch to virtual meetings or one-on-one sales calls. Think about how much easier it would be to establish rap­port when you can see the other person’s face and the subtle cues that come along with that!

What About Webinars?

Well, I can tell you from personal experience, having presented over 100 live webinars, that including a variety of sources–not just PowerPoint slides– makes it a lot more interesting for the viewer, and increases the likelihood that they’ll actually stay on the call.

If you’re doing any kind of webinar replays, having a good mix of content will get you better results all around.

So if you’ve been reluctant to add video to your marketing mix, there’s no reason to hold back–there are more than enough tools to help you become successful.