Your executive presence, your image, and reputation all make up your personal brand! Add to these, your video brand. I like to say “get comfortable with being uncomfortable “on camera. Why? Because video is now way more important in building your brand than words, audio or pictures. People want to feel a connection with you and video is the best way to achieve that.

Here is an example of my bio that I put into video. I’m told that clients get a “sense” of who I am and what I do, with the added benefit of feeling they kinda, sorta know me just from watching. Check it out and consider doing something similar for your department, company, or using video to send a message to clients.

What’s the benefit?

By recording a brief video, in a few short minutes you’re able to give people a glimpse of who you are. You can bring to life the story you tell in your LinkedIn profile or in your online posts. You can present your authentic brand and re-purpose that digital real estate in multiple places online. It’s a quick way to show your digital savvy while sharing what you have to offer to the world.

Before you grab your camera, here are a few tips to consider as you start engaging your audience:

1. What’s your purpose? Be strategic in your message making sure it is scripted with a call to action for your primary target audience. Look dependable, trustworthy, and sincere. Don’t forget to smile.

2. Have you practiced? Do test runs to check for angles, lighting, and sound quality.

3. How do you feel? If you’re not comfortable being in front of a camera it helps to take a few deep breaths with your eyes closed. Think of things that make you relax, laugh, or remind you of a positive experience. Mainly, know you can do this! Now go for it.

4. How do you look? Check your hair, make-up, and grooming. Be sure your clothing is updated without being too trendy. Don’t wear dangle earrings or have a scruffy beard. Little things can derail a video.