Facebook Live is a great way to engage audiences and can be an exciting part of your overall video strategy. Add to that how simple it is to use and there’s no reason to put off creating high-quality, authentic, and engaging streamed video content any longer. Oh, and did we mention it’s free?
Why you should use Facebook Live
Facebook Live videos not only receive 3 times higher engagement than other videos, they also receive 5 times more engagement than standard posts with still photos. Whether you’re using videos to raise brand awareness, track down more leads, or increase interaction with customers, Facebook Live is an essential tool you should be using.
Here are just 3 reasons why.
- They offer an incredibly powerful method for connecting with your audience in the most genuine way possible. There’s no post production involved which means instead of a slick often cookie-cutter like video, your audience get a raw and humanized look at your brand.
- There’s nothing like live interaction with your followers for getting them when they’re most interested in what you have to offer. With comments and reactions delivered in real time, you can create a synergy with your audience by asking and answering questions during your live stream.
- Nothing builds a loyal following like showing off your company culture to viewers. The long term benefits include not only getting new followers but recruiting new hires and developing relationships with brand ambassadors.
All you need to create your first live video is a mobile device, laptop, or desktop computer that has a good camera and microphone.
Video tips for getting started with Facebook Live
Here are some video tips for using Facebook Live to reach these goals.
- To deliver an open and honest experience with your audience, use a healthy dose of humor and try to relax. A format that’s been successful for many brands is the concept of a series or daily show. Take a look at Mashable’s “Mash on This” for inspiration. The brand delivers information its viewers are looking for but does it in a short period of time, all while breezily engaging with the audience.
- Yes, it’s still important to interact with and respond to follower comments on your Facebook page. But Facebook Live is just the ticket for interacting one-on-one with your audience, answering those questions in real time. One way to make this a successful endeavor is to schedule the Q&A sessions at recurring, consistent times. And be sure to post reminders in the days leading up to your Q&A session. Facebook has some great links to use cases and examples of how to do a Q&A that will keep your audience entertained and coming back for more.
- Who doesn’t love going behind the scenes? Some of the most successful Facebook Live videos are the ones that offer viewers an experience they can’t and won’t get anywhere else. Whether it’s a live entertainment event or just a peek into how your company operates, inviting people into the inner sanctum is one of the most beneficial ways to grow your business and build brand advocates. One great example of this technique is Target’s behind the scenes footage of a Gwen Stefani music video.
The Live takeaway
These video tips should give you a good jumping off point for getting started with your own Facebook Live strategy. We’re confident Facebook Live will continue to grow as an important social media marketing tool. It’s a fantastic way for you to engage audiences in a world where live broadcasts are becoming ever more popular.
