With platforms like TikTok going crazy at the moment, there has never been a better time to start recording videos. Since the pandemic, many business owners have realised that the internet gives them a potentially global audience.
And one of the best ways to make a human connection is through videos. It is one of the best mediums to showcase your personality and allows potential clients to see what you are all about.
If you are new to video content, you may feel a little overwhelmed. And, talking to a camera may feel weird. This is perfectly normal, but once you have had a little practice, you'll start to feel more natural in front of the camera.
You'll then be able to showcase your thoughts and experience authentically.
Here are some top tips on how to show up authentically on camera.
But before we get started, let's get some common questions out of the way!
Is There A Right Way To Do Videos?
NOPE!
Do My Videos Have To Be Perfect?
NOPE
Do I need fancy editing skills and to be an extrovert?
NOPE and NOPE
Now that we have got that out of the way let's focus on the things that actually matter.
YOU and YOUR MESSAGE
Here are some ways that you can start to feel more authentic on camera.
Body Language
One way to make yourself more relatable is to focus on your body language. Even online, humans still respond well to eye contact and open body language.
Here are a few things to try when you're doing your videos.
1. Look at the lens the whole time you are speaking. Your audience will feel like you are talking directly to them.
2. Make sure your camera lens is at eye level so people can see your eyes. If you are looking down at the camera, your audience will get to see up your nose. Plus, it can seem like you're looking down on your audience, which can be very off-putting.
3. Keep your body language open. If possible, do your videos standing up with your shoulders back and your back straight. This makes it easier for you to move around and look confident.
If you are slouching or have your arms across your chest, it makes you look defensive, making it harder to project positivity into your message.
Don't be afraid of moving around and using your hands to emphasise your points. Just don't forget to look at the camera.
4. Smile! A smile goes a long way and makes you more relatable. Please don't force it or do a Cheshire Cat impression during the whole video.
5. Have fun! If you are in a bad mood or having a bad day, don't try and fake it. Chose a day when you are in the zone, get playful, laugh at your mistakes and let your personality shine.
Personality
The secret ingredient of any video is YOU, so let your personality shine.
When you log onto social media, you may think you have to sing and dance or be a massive extrovert to get any traction. This couldn't be further from the truth.
Showing up in a way that isn't you will feel uncomfortable and come across as fake. Even if you manage to wing your way through it and appear confident on camera, you are setting yourself up for trouble.
For example, if you build an online version of yourself that is not what you are really like in the real world, people will get a surprise when they finally meet you. There will be a disconnect, and they are unlikely to trust you because they will feel cheated.
That is why it is always a good idea to show up authentically in a way you feel aligned with.
I often sing, dance, and do silly stuff online because I have an extroverted side that loves to entertain! But, I also have a large introverted and serious side that likes to get down to business or enjoy quiet times. That is why I strike a balance with my content and show both sides of my personality.
And, that is what I recommend you do.
Share what you feel comfortable with.
Don't do things that feel yucky.
If you are doing something because you feel you should be doing it, then don't do it!
Play around with different things until you find your groove.
Your personality acts as a fantastic filter in your business. It will attract the people who get you and repel those who don't! And this will save you so much time and energy in the long run!
Ultimately, your people will get you! They will laugh with you or nod along as you dish out some truth bombs in your style. And the other people will scroll on by.
Only Start Recording Videos If You Think It Will Make A Difference For You and Your Business
Aye up, Ashley, why are you talking us out of doing videos? I am not! I want you to know that if you are not 100% committed to the process, you'll start looking for reasons why it was a bad idea.
And, it won't be hard to find when you are on take 57 of a 1-minute introduction video.
So, leave it on the to-do list for now and focus on another task.
On the other hand, if you feel that doing videos is a good option for your business, you are in a much more empowered position to play outside of your comfort zone.
You'll embrace the learning curve and accept that the first video won't be perfect, but you'll make it happen. From there, you'll slowly find your groove and start growing in confidence on camera, which will come through in your content.
Ready To Let Your Personality Shine?
If you need some support getting started with videos, I offer 1:1 coaching on how to show up confidently on camera.
Book a call today or click here to learn more about the Get Awesome On Video Program