I am about to share with you the ONLY 5 STEPS you need to effectively grow your business to 6 figures by using VIDEO.

 If you want to go on running around in circles, please DO NOT read this.
 DO NOT read this if you are ok following the masses and not standing out.

 Read this only if you are ready to see results by implementing what you are about to learn.
 Read this only if you are ready to STAND OUT and not ever think about the competition again.

Because here is the thing, when you do things above average, there is NO competition.

1- GET CLEAR

Get clear on wanting to use video and grow a strong Mindset that will support your Video Strategy in the long run.

This may sound weird but it is the #1 reason why so many video strategies fail. If you don´t take the time to set strong foundations, the whole plan will collapse. If you don´t take the time to create a habit of doing video, sooner or later, you will feel the overwhelm of creating content or being visible, the fear of judgement and you will need time away from livestreaming.

You can teach your brain to be ok with video. I am speaking from experience! Nobody was more petrified that I was a few months ago, ok? But if you follow these steps, you WILL be able to rock your videos, grow your business and have a hell of a time while doing it.

85% of the US internet audience watches videos online

Let´s get one thing clear, it is not enough to KNOW that you need to do video for your business to grow, you also need to develop a strong mindset that will allow you to be ok with:

-becoming visible
-being judged
-being consistent (if not, any strategy will fail)
-having to do videos, even when you are tired or don´t feel like doing them
-staying strong and balanced when the overwhelm of being visible and vulnerable hits home, and believe me, this will happen even to the most outgoing personalities

But I see too many people trying to step out of their comfort zone the wrong way.

If you take the approach of the “shock therapy”, the all or nothing, you are setting up to fail.

Building a Video Mindset (or visibility mindset) is exactly the same as building a muscle and creating a habit.

Here is how to do it:

Make your brain get used to getting out of its comfort zone every single day, by taking smaller actions. Build up the courage step by step, so that your brain gets used to the new connections it is starting to build.

By consistent repetition and progressive build up, you will be creating a long-term habit.

It is then fundamental that you reward yourself for every goal accomplished. This is how to do it:

So, your big GOAL is to build strong foundations for your Video strategy to work.
Break up that goal into smaller ones, why?
Because they will seem less scary and more achievable, this increases DOPAMINE, a neurotransmitter that helps with goal achievement and motivation.

 By feeding the brain higher levels of dopamine, it will remain motivated. YES!

Plan for a daily smaller goal to be achieved and reward yourself upon completion. Rewards can be anything that make you happy: a walk with the dog, watching your favourite series, having a glass of wine, checking out updates from your favourite influencers on Instagram… It is very important that the reward is immediate, not delayed, for maximum effect.

I teach my students how to naturally enhance Dopamine and other neurotransmitters in my programme VIDEOS that SELL, once you know how to use these neuro chemicals effectively, your videos will never be the same…

Apply this system and you will be creating a strong muscle that will set you up for success.
Fail to do this and your video strategy will suffer at some point, believe me, I have seen it too many times…

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 2- GET SMART

Ditch the expensive list of equipment…
Please, don´t follow what every other unsuccessful, boring, standard person is doing on video.

 STOP!
You don´t need that big, expensive, stupid equipment in the middle of your living room, only to show people that you are a livestreamer!

I can guarantee, if what you are going to be creating close up (or waist up) videos: livestreams, pre-recorded videos, courses, interviews and calls (yes, those are also videos), all you need is 1 PIECE OF EQUIPMENT under $30 (two at the most, depending on your case). If you want to know what it is, comment #one below and I will send you the info.

Even if you are doing full body videos, you can create professional looking videos by using 1 or 2 affordable pieces of equipment. Comment #two if you want to know what you need.

Light  and sound  are two very important elements in your videos, but there is still another one as powerful as these two that very few people are aware of… I will explain that further down.

 LIGHT:

You might even be able to use some natural light source, a.k.a. windows right at the beginning and invest in equipment a bit later, this is how to do it:

– Always face the light, I have lost count of how many people I see doing their videos with a window behind them, your light should always be in front of you, not behind.
– If you are not yet using any lighting equipment in your videos, and rely solely on natural daylight, find the most flattering light for your videos.

 To do this: Test the light at different times during the day and write down your preferences, that way you will have a good idea of when is the best time to go live. Stick to that time during a specific season, you will then have to test again when weather conditions change.

On the other hand, if you want to be sure of always having the right light for every video, no matter what the weather is like outside, comment #one below and I will share with you my go to light fixture under $30.

Light should be constant, uniform and interesting.

Interesting?

Yes, light is also a great way of making your videos recognizable and therefore, stand out from a saturated feed.

Not all light is the same, as you know, and you might have to test a few things before (or avoid all the time consuming testing by working with me).

 SOUND: 

The main reason why people stop watching a video is poor sound, so if you are not able to shoot your videos in a quiet, sound-proof space, you can use a microphone. Comment #three if you want to know a cost-effective option that will save the day.

In general, if you are livestreaming from a regular-sized room, have no sound distractions around, your windows and door are closed and you are close to the microphone on your device, you should be fine. If you are going to be a bit further away from the mic, or if you are moving in your videos , or you are going to shoot outdoors, you definitely need a microphone.

 Podcasts always require microphones, your audience will expect a certain quality.

If you want to improve your speech and delivery, you should follow Ariane de Melo. Her techniques will highly benefit your videos, she can teach you how to project your voice, breathing techniques and many other things that you need to be aware of when you speak in public.

And if you want to tackle your public speaking fears that have a deeper root (maybe a childhood event), you should follow Jim J Doyle, who will identify them and make them vanish using some of his amazing healing modalities.

There is still another piece in the puzzle, apart from light and sound: one that most people are not aware of… but you will have to read on to find out what it is.

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 3- GET HIGH

No, I would never recommend the use of any substance in order to livestream, absolutely not, but I will recommend a few neurochemicals, which your body can produce naturally and that will change the way you show up on screen.

I see this piece of advice everywhere: Be yourself on video and people will love you.
It is simply ridiculous!

What does being yourself mean, anyway?

Being your old grumpy you? 
Or
Being the nagging you? 
Or
Maybe, being the tired you?

People deserve to see only the better version of you.
The happy, fun, entertaining, knowledgeable and vibrant you, that is…if you want to be magnetic in front of an audience.

Nobody is going to follow a boring, nagging, grumpy or tired you, ok?

It is the same as dressing up nicely before your guests arrive for a dinner party, it is a sign of respect towards them in the first place, you want to look your best and, secondly, you need to show a charismatic, magnetic persona on video or else, not even your mum is going to want to watch you.

So, how can you make sure you show up being the best, prepared, energetic version of you?

By hacking a few neurochemicals that you can produce naturally! 

For instance, if you feel anxious or nervous before going live, increasing your ENDORPHIN levels will help you become more relaxed. You can increase levels by watching something funny right before you go live (laughter releases endorphins); have a small piece of dark chocolate, or smell certain scents.

There are more effective ways I teach all my clients, these tools can help you not only with video, but before a sales call, a speaking gig, a dentist appointment…!

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 4- GET CREATIVE

Content is king, I bet you have heard that a few times too.
Well, on video, many elements are king (and queen) but, obviously having something to say is rather important,   don´t ya think?

Creating content might seem like a humongous challenge but if you truly are an expert, you will never be short of ideas, what you might be short of is of creative ways of presenting them.
Not every video needs to be a Masterclass, you can show your knowledge in many ways.

Bear in mind that, when doing a video, you are trying to ATTRACT your ideal client – CONNECT to them emotionally so that they TRUST you and eventually BUY from you.

In order to do this, a variety of videos is required:

-Create inspiring and entertaining videos that WOW your viewers.
-Ask them what they want you to speak about or what questions they need answered (this alone is an infinite source of content ideas).
-Create videos where your personality can shine through.

 And always remember to:

–Create an experience for them, every single time, no matter what type of video you are doing.

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 5- GET REMEMBERED

And here comes the final, but hugely important last piece of the puzzle:

Viewers scrolling down a saturated feed will decide to watch you or keep scrolling in less that 2 SECONDS!

How can you get them to “Stop & Watch”?
How can you get their attention instantly?

•  90% of information transmitted to the brain is visual.
•  Visuals are processed 60,000X faster in the brain than text.

You guessed, by showing the RIGHT VISUALS in your videos, you can literally make people “Stop & Watch”.

But, what visuals should you use on video?

Well, let´s start from the beginning, whatever your viewers see behind you on video is called a BACKDROP and it is massively powerful tool (when used properly) and a very harmful tool if you are not aware of it.

Your backdrop can ATTRACT your ideal client immediately, it´s up too you later to follow with remarkable content and delivery.

Your backdrop can show your POSITIONING in seconds; trying to attract high-end clients? You will only be able to by showing a high-end backdrop yourself.

Your backdrop has the power of telling your story visually, without words.

Your backdrop can build an emotionally connection with your viewers. And it will build trust, which is vital if you want to sell on video.

Your backdrop will tell your viewers what you are about, what your business is about, without you having to speak.

A BACKDROP that SELLS (my signature system) can increase sales from 30-71%.

Not only that, it is the easiest, no software required way of branding every single video and no, not with a logo, that, I am sorry to break it to you, has no memory retention effect in your viewers.

And, although you can refer to some of my earlier posts, make sure you don´t make the mistake of becoming a “generic = forgettable brand” that uses a generic fabric screen in their videos, no, that is NOT a powerful backdrop. But more on that another day.

A backdrop will “create the scene” for your videos, thus helping you deliver an experience to your audience.

And you need to CREATE AN EXPERIENCE every time you connect to your viewers or clients, so you become MEMORABLE in their minds.

 So, when planning your next video, make sure your viewers can identify those bullets points above in your backdrop.

Believe me, if you follow these 5 steps, your videos will improve tenfold.

There is absolutely no excuse for you not to make better videos by implementing these 5 steps.

If you go even deeper by working with me, the changes will be outstanding.

THIS TYPE OF BACKDROP IS KILLING YOUR CREDIBILITY

People often ask me why I don´t recommend using generic backdrops (aka the ones you buy ready-made to hang on a wall or pole structure). You, know the fabric screen that are sold as video backdrops, but that are, in fact, only photography backdrops.

I think they can kill your brand, your credibility and they make you look lazy!

You see, one of the purposes of using a video backdrop is to make your videos recognisable in a saturated feed. To make you stand out from the crowd.

Your backdrop should be customised to you and your business.

Your message, your brand, your business, your personality…are not the same as another business owner´s message, brand, business, personality:

So why the flamingo would you use the same generic backdrop as somebody else?

The mere fact that you might be using what other people are using, for the exact same purpose, neutralises the purpose of making you stand out.

So why would you want to be faded out in the mass of live streamers that are using that same, uninspired backdrop?
It´s ridiculous!

Your backdrop is your most powerful visual branding tool when you are on screen!

Your video backdrop is the new “About Me” page !!!

You have spent time and money creating your brand and brand image, why would you toss it in the bin with a bad choice of a backdrop?

Your backdrop is your digital brand brought to life.

The wrong backdrop can seriously damage your credibility, and your authority.

Remember, people need to be able to see what you say you can help them with in your videos: Show the results you can help them get.

They need to trust that you can take them from A to B.
You need to show them the results they can get by working with you.
You need to be coherent with what you say.

This is the reason I created a proven system, that applies my years of experience designing commercial spaces and events, as an award winning designer, I have been able to create show stopping events and successful retail and commercial spaces for my clients, making them thousands of dollars, I now apply the same commercial, scenography and psychology principles to your backdrops so that your videos can become a powerful selling machine.

So, are you going to be a generic solution for your clients or a specific, exclusive, high-end  solution?
You decide.

If you want your videos to be your best selling tool, check this out. Limited time offer.

Download a full .pdf explaining everything a backdrop can do for your videos.

So you have decided to use Video in your business.

Congrats! It is a smart decision as by 2020, Cisco has estimated that video content will make 80-90% of all content online, this is huge and in order to be successful, you definitely need to embrace it as soon as possible.

If you are already using Video, you need to make sure you are doing it right or else, it could be doing nothing for you, or what´s even worse, it could be harming your brand and message *more on this below.

Here is what usually happens right after you decide to create Videos for your business:

1.- What type of videos should I create?

You start thinking about what type of content you would like to create , if you want a tip, don´t create the type of content you think your audience will like but ask them, do some research into what they are asking, what they need, what their struggles are…

This is a much more effective approach to content creation and will save you months, if not more of creating content for crickets…

Find a good balance of educational/inspiring videos as well as some behind the scenes (your viewers will love those!), entertaining content…it really comes down to what your audience wants to watch, so when you make it a habit to ask them, they will be an infinite source of ideas!

The best help on this topic (on how to structure and be consistent) I have found in all my years as an online entrepreneur has been this class by Desislava Dobreva   ,  a 3-hour masterclass that will help you destroy any confusion and overwhelm you have about positioning your business online with a powerful content strategy. After this, you’ll be able to create your entire social media strategy from scratch and become a content creation machine. I tell you, it is gold!

Now, if you would like to plan all your content like a PRO and even create each type of video and practice them before you go live, check out my VIDEOS that SELL Programme.

2.- What platform/s should I use?

Now, after you decide your Content plan, you need to start thinking on what platforms you will be using. Not every platform works the same way, and they each have their peculiarities when it comes to backdrops (more on that later) but to make it easy for you to decide, ask yourself this question:

Where is my Ideal client?

That´s it, you now have an answer to where you should be streaming from. Start small, on one or two platforms at the most. It takes time to get the grasp of how each platform works.

If you are going to be using Written Visuals in your videos (words, taglines, etc), you need to know the characteristics of each platform. I offer a free cheat sheet for people who join my facebook group (apart from other awesome trainings, and free content, oh, and a weekly giveaway). If you want to join and get my free cheat sheet, just click on the image below.

Click on image to join.

3.- How do I structure my videos?

Ok, so this, takes time to master, but the best script and outline, without doubt  I have found and I use as so do all my #peri10k peeps (It is a community of change makers and thought leaders) is this one by Katya Varbanova. At first, simply look at it while you are livestreaming, the more you use it , the more familiar you will become with the structure and it will soon be second nature. It really helped me with managing my nerves and making me feel more confident on camera. It is a way of seeming more professional, like you know what you are doing, lol! It also helps when you get nervous, and I know a thing or two about that…camera-shy was my second name, petrified was my first name!

In my new programme, you will be able to create your own script, completely adapted to your business and strategy and, yes, you guessed, you will be able to Practice before using it live. Learn more here.

4.- What equipment do I need?

Let´s be honest, when you are first starting out you have plenty enough equipment with your phone , a backdrop* , an affordable light and tripod (UK link) affordable light and tripod  (US link) and in some cases a mic . With this same equipment I recommend to all my clients, you can easily make videos until you are making big sales.

Remember you are trying to provide the best viewer experience, so you should eventually level up your video gear, although don´t let that stop you, you need to start doing video today, your can always up-level bit by bit.

I am going to break down this section and tell you exactly what you need when:

1. Starting out and until you are making money:

You just need a smartphone and a video backdrop*.

Optional: a tripod will make things easier but you can also use a stack of books, some sturdy box or candle…you should see how I did my first videos! Some of them are still up on my Facebook page , some people may argue I should take them down,(some are even blurry…) but you what, I keep them there as a reminder of how far I have come since I started livestreaming (but that is a whole other story!).

About the *backdrop:

As you saw in the video at the top of this page,

a backdrop is what your viewers can see behind you when you are on screen.

BUT it is NOT (or it should not be) that generic fabric screen some people are using (there is nothing wrong with the format, the power of a backdrop is in the Visuals you are using, not in the format). If you want to know why those screens are harming your brand, watch this super short video. 

or read this article.

When you are on camera, there is always something behind you, it is merely a physical fact, so why not make it work in your favour instead of against you? 

A backdrop is not only your physical support when you are doing videos , it acts as an emotional support too.

Your backdrop is your Visual Communication, it is the first impression your viewers will have of you. And you know what? It is the best selling machine for your business.

In a saturated feed, you need to make it easy for people to decide they want to “Stop & Watch” you.

 

Your Video Backdrop has the power (when designed right) to:

• Amplify your message
• Make your videos recognisable in a saturated feed.
• Brand all your videos.
• Tell your story.
• Show your expertise.
• Build the trust factor fast.
• Show your clients what results you ca get for them.
• Attract your Ideal client easily.
• Communicate your message visually.
• Market your offers subtly (using seller psychology).
• Use effective CTAs in your videos that will help you get subscribers, sales or whatever outcome you are aiming at.

Download my Free Checklist to know what key 3 elements you need to have in place.

Download to get the full Checklist.

Can you see how POWERFUL it is?

The terrible thing is, hardly anyone is using their backdrop to their full potential, moreover, most people are using the wrong backdrop (because they are not even aware they have one) or using the wrong solution, such as a generic fabric screen that is doing nothing to make their videos recognisable and unique.

Using the wrong backdrop is actually harming your branding, your message and your credibility.

 

It is confusing your viewers because what you say (your message) and what they see (your backdrop) doesn´t match.

A fully Optimised backdrop will have every key element in place, depending on your needs, your goals, your aspiration and your current surroundings.

I do not believe in invasive solutions such as big poles and screens unless you have a video studio, a dedicated space you can use solely for video creation. If that is not your situation, which, most likely isn´t, you need to make the living/video/working combo work for you and for the inhabitants of your home. I like creating the Perfect Backdrop for each client, the one that will act as a marketing, branding and communication tool but that will also enhance your surroundings and not be an obstacle in your space.

If you want to know whether you are using the right backdrop for your videos, check this article out.

If you are ready to start rocking your videos, let´s chat. Book an Initial Consultation with me in which I will see what the best solution would be for your needs and situation.

1. You are already making money in our business and/or creating Courses or Video ads:

I do recommend you invest in all or some of these if you are creating Courses or Video ads , or if you are a regular live streamer; at this stage you really should be delivering high quality videos, viewers will expect it.

I am listing a number of items I use myself and I recommend my clients, there are several options, at different price points.

• Although you can still use a smartphone (the higher range in Apple or Samsung, for instance, not quoting others as I have no experience with them), below you will find some cameras that are great for creating courses and webinars.

• Video Backdrop: this is a MUST. No video should be done without a proper, optimised backdrop as you have learnt in the point above. However, you might have started with a more simple video backdrop (Backdrop Quick-Fix) and now you are ready for the full version.
• I have created a System, that turns your backdrop into your best selling tool. I am an award winning designer and for years, I have designed commercial retail spaces and events, making millions for my clients, I now apply the same commercial design and psychology principles to your VIDEOS , so that you can easily grow your business to 6-figures by using video.

• A tripod, people get very nervous when a video is shaky, you don´t want that. I am sharing my two favourites at two different price points. You can start with the more affordable option and upgrade later on. It also depends on your needs, will you just use it from a desk? Or will you be taking it with you, even outdoors? In this case, I do recommend the Gorilla tripod as it is incredibly versatile, you can place it on the most extreme surfaces and it will remain steadily gripped.

• One of the main reasons not to follow someone´s videos is  bad SOUND. It is a top reason also for your course to be rejected on Udemy or other teaching platforms.  I highly recommend the Rode Smart Lav. This is definitely a sound investment (pun intended).

• Next piece of equipment would be lighting. If you need help finding the best spot for your video backdrops and making the most of natural lighting, book an Initial Consultation with me, sometimes you don´t even need any other type of lighting or other times, you will benefit more from other options. It all depends on the style of video you are going to shoot, your Ideal audience, your brand style…I can give you honest feedback on what features you should invest in and which you don´t need. However, if you already know that you do require lighting equipment, here are my go to recommendations; lightboxes only if you have a space you can use as a video set or studio, if not, this handy and super affordable option is my go to favourite to use with a mobile phone.

This is a similar option:

• If you are planning on creating high quality videos, courses or You Tube videos, you will eventually need to invest in a camera that works well both for video and photos.I love my Canon! They are easy to use (they even come with a free course) and photos and video are really professional looking. Of course, you can later go really professional with other cameras and lenses but wait until you start making money from your videos. On my list, the Canon EOS C100  below.
• If you are looking for an affordable option to use with your computer, this webcam does the trick at a reasonable price.

5.- You have it all sorted…but who is going to watch? How to find your audience.

The best way to grow an audience today is definitely via video, no question about that.

Luckily building a tribe just needs commitment, consistency and a proven system ……. I´ve got you covered!

The best training ever is ACE  , it gives you all the steps you need to take to go from 0 viewers to 1000 easily. After that, numbers (apparently) start piling up really fast! Ask me again in a couple of months, combining my different platforms I am way over that first thousand (remember I started livestreaming recently) but on the same platform, I am still not there). ACE has given me the step-by-step instructions (easy to implement, by the way), so it is just a question of being consistent.

And, once more, your Backdrop is the easiest and fastest way of attracting your Ideal tribe. If you want to know the exact visulas you should be using and where they need to be placed, check this out, my new programme covers every single element you need to have in place so that your videos SELL.

I really do hope this post will help you get started or uplevel your video game.

You simply cannot afford to wait any longer to hit that Go live button and start getting clients!

Let me know how else I can help you.

Remember:

A video backdrop and a smartphone is all you need to share your message and start getting clients from video!

But if you really want to do it fast and easily, join the VIDEOS that SELL Programme, right now, you can get in at a fraction of the price, while we run our BETA. In September, price will double.