The coronavirus pandemic has changed a lot about the way many industries and individual companies think about and do business.  That includes us, our clients, and probably even your own organization.

The changing economic climate has left small businesses and large corporations alike facing all kinds of uncertainty.  The result has been closures, layoffs, and, to say the least, marketing budget freezes.

Here’s one thing we can say for certain: Video is one of the most effective tactics you can implement into your marketing strategy right now.  

Not only does video content significantly boost conversions and help your brand stand out online, but they can actually be incredibly easy and cost effective to make.

Research by Gartner found that online video is a key differentiator for businesses during COVID-19, and much of that trend is expected to become a permanent staple in the future of marketing.

That’s why we want to share a few high-engagement, low-cost ideas that you can implement from wherever you are right now.

Four types of video you can produce right now

Social distancing due to the coronavirus doesn’t have to keep your brand from being fresh on your customers’ minds.  Video, while gaining popularity, is still well within reach.  Here are four ways to get started.

1. Live Videos

Facebook Live viewers increased 50% in the United States from February to March, according to the platform which boasts 2.5 billion active users per month.  The next month, Meltwater reported that general social media across platforms went up by 83%.

Use live videos to authentically connect with your audience in real time.  All you really need is your phone.

2. Company Message / Behind the Scenes

During COVID-19, people want to know what you’re up to.  That includes everything from highlighting safety measures to casual status updates to a behind-the-scenes look at what business is like day-to-day.

However, DO make sure that your content stands out.  43% of consumers feel that brand messaging during the coronavirus pandemic is too similar and is “losing its impact,” according to a Conviva report.

If you need some convincing on that last point, here’s what we mean:

3. Product Videos

Many types of video can provide opportunities for user-generated content.  If your business sells a product, ask your customers to show it off.  They can highlight their favorite features or record themselves using it in their everyday lives.  

If you have the budget, you can also think about a giveaway or other contest where the best video wins!  That’s a great way to ensure that you’ll have high-quality content to reuse and repurpose in the future.

4. Testimonials

Testimonials are one of the best ways to build trust for your brand.  And when you do them successfully, they practically sell your product or service for you.

Like product videos, you can also use testimonial videos as an opportunity for user-generated content.  If you’d rather produce a higher-end video yourself, check out our post on why testimonial videos are ESSENTIAL to your marketing strategy.

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We clearly like the number four — so we want to send you our free video series, “The Four Overlooked Secrets to Making Emotionally Engaging Videos.”

You’ll learn how to script and produce videos that capture your audience’s attention and inspire them to take action through the art of emotional storytelling.