You probably know that video is a powerful way to put yourself out there and start a meaningful relationship with your ideal clients. But did you know that there are different great ways to use video, and some don’t even require you to be on camera? And some are even free and are so easy the even most technically challenged among us, myself being first in line, can create professional video? It’s true! Here’s a quick overview of three different ways to create and use video in your business.

1: Shoot and Share-Type Videos

In this kind of video, all you need is a Flip camera or other personal video camera. As the name implies, this is video that you can take anywhere at a moment’s notice and share with anyone you choose. This kind of video is perfect for sharing through social media or for video blogging. It’s not professional-level video, but everyone on social media and blog readers understand that not every video needs to be hired out.

Here are some occasions where you can pull out your video camera:

• While you’re at an event, networking group or other function
• Shooting weekly tips to share
• Information sharing in your ezine
• Video blogging
• Giving and collecting testimonials

A Flip camera is so simple that my kids started using it before they were five years old. It can be found at most any electronic store, on or offline. Kodak also has a great pocket camera options because of the external microphone feature which allows you to hear the person on camera bit better than with a Flip.

Here are some examples of how to use your shoot and share video camera:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bzf1sdOJEpc – this is a compilation video that is used as a lead-generation tool.

Marketing Mojo – this was a short-lived online TV show I did with a few amazing marketing/branding/PR people.

Donna Olson talks to Meredith Liepelt at the NAPO Conference – Testimonial/conversation

2: Video Creation

This is great if you don’t want to be on film or you just want to repurpose photos you have on hand.

• To share a quick message
• To send a “video card” instead of a card or e-card
• Sending weekly video tips
• Video blogging

Free resource for video creation:

• Animoto.com

Examples:

http://animoto.com/play/zaonuw6YxJ2zf0nzzRkgzw – This is a free 30 second shout out to some friends and colleagues

http://video214.com/play/4kWfy1rYS0RPsHpZV6LK7Q/s/dark – This is a tips-based video that is mostly text. This was created using the Pro version of Animoto.com

3: Professional Video

This is putting your best foot forward. There are times when a flip just won’t due and you need the look and feel of a professional video. For example:

• A professional business profile for your web site
• A welcome message for your web site or blog
• To show/teach at a workshop/event
• A book launch party or other event coverage

Example: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzljP7eGvCs

As you can see, there are many ways to use video. Online video is not new by any means, but it’s also not being used by everyone just yet. With the new tools that are on the market, anyone can produce great video messages as a means of connecting and engaging with their clients and potential clients. If you can add video to your marketing mix, it is a great way to stand out in your industry.

© 2011 Meredith Liepelt, Rich Life Marketing

Meredith Liepelt, President of Rich Life Marketing, offers a free report called “101 Ways to Attract Ideal Clients, Build Your List and Raise Your Profile,” which can be downloaded immediately at www.RisingStarPublicity.com.

This article may be reprinted when the copyright and author bio are included.