So, you decide to jump into the wonderful and wacky world of online content creating for your business. You are going to become your own media source and a trusted resource not just pushing your product at people, but instead educating, entertaining and inspiring. Perhaps you are going to do a video interview series with thought leaders and your customers or weekly tips on your blog. Or animated cartoons. Or videos of you playing tennis with monkeys (hey, it could happen). Whatever floats your boat. To get started, you have to have the right tools. Of course, your budget might vary, but I’ve always preferred the smarter, faster, cheaper approach to the dumber, slower, expensive approach (and trust me I’ve experimented with both and have learned from my mistakes). Why buy stuff you don’t need? You can always add on later if you want to (once you are bling blinging). The key here is many people are overwhelmed by the technology to get started. Don’t be. It isn’t that tough. I’m a person who enjoys technology, but probably like you, only if it is easy. None of us have hours to spend playing with wires and buttons (unless you do…). Smarter in this case is defined by simple and intuitive. Nothing is worse than buying something and it takes a physicist to figure out how to use. Faster is defined as minimizing the time it takes to get something from your big brain to the online world. Cheaper is just… Read More

We Are In The Midst Of An Online Video Revolution It is no secret that online video is a great (well…more than great) way to bring your business to life. Video adds personality, depth and much more (here are 7 ways entrepreneurs can maximize online video) But how do you jump into video even if you don’t know the first thing about it and/or a beginner on the tech side? Well, you are in for a treat today. Steve Garfield is a veteran video blogger to say the least with a passion for media and video. He has worked in media in front of and behind the camera in the traditional media world and then he REALLY came to life when video tools became available online. His first video blog was in 2004 (!). In Internet time periods that is like saying 1847. Steve is the author of a must read book for entrepreneurs called “Get Seen” (Amazon Link) which will walk you step-by-step through the world of online video (do yourself a favor and DEFINITELY pick it up). In this interview: Why “I feel like I already know you!” is a phrase every business owner wants to hear more of. Why ALL businesses need a face. Casual video. No, it isn’t dirty. Yes, it is useful. Tips: Find the natural fit for video in your organization. Don’t want to be on camera? Steve has some solutions. Converting website viewers into customers. Video can increase conversion rate up to 30%… Read More