Develop a Future-Proof Streaming Video Strategy

Watching videos or listening to audio in real-time is called ‘streaming’. This means we are not downloading the file first to view it later. When we watch videos online or a webcast of live events – we view it as a continuous stream of data. Files used for streaming are highly compressed to use as little bandwidth as possible which means a smooth viewing experience without any visible buffering.

Live internet streaming is when we watch an event or video in real-time as it happens. It is commonly used by gamers, sports channels and websites which show live interviews.If you are travelling and decide to show your footage of a metro like say Chicago, Boston or New York, it can be uploaded to 

YouTube and viewed as a streaming video by your subscribers or connections at their leisure. Alternately, if you have 1000 subscribers on YouTube you can broadcast live from your mobile device as you visit the sites and shops that interest you and the target audience.

Following are a few things to keep in mind when developing a livestream strategy:

Post a teaser: give your followers a heads up when you will be broadcasting and what it will be about. Use your social media account or create a short video to advertise your livestream beforehand.

Create a rough script: draft some bullet points and practice a bit before you go live. Spontaneity is important for live streaming but don’t leave your viewers confused.

Use fresh content: viewers are more likely to watch your content if it doesn’t involve directly marketing your product or contain a sales pitch. Understand your target audience and try to create something unique for them.

As most marketing professionals are aware, creating an emotional bond is important for converting prospective customers. Dry and technical videos will not have the same appeal to users as an emotionally engaging video.

Carefully study the comments to understand how to progressively improve your video content and product. Ask your followers to appear in 30 second videos to share a testimonial on your product online. Respond to any queries that are posted and apologise for any shortcomings pointed out by viewers. This will show others that your customers matter to you.

As more and more consumers watch streaming videos on YouTube and Facebook Live, be ready to provide content that helps retain their interest in your brand and products or services without being cheesy. Ensure your video strategy is future proof and keeps your company miles ahead of the competition.