With streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime now the norm for watching video, cable TV is slowly becoming a thing of the past. Meanwhile, social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook and Instagram are capitalizing on live streaming for user-generated content. Live streaming is not just another piece of content; it’s a practical and entertaining way for your audience to engage with you and make your brand more personal.
Live streaming can be a challenge to add to your marketing plan, but it can produce big results. Here are the most common questions we get about becoming a live stream pro to give you the confidence you need to take on your first live stream!
Why should I live stream?
Live streams gives your followers a chance to engage with you directly. They can ask you questions live and feel like they are a part of the conversation. It adds a personal touch that standard posts on social media can sometimes lack. This helps further build a community through your brand and become a trusted voice and expert in your industry.
But I don't have fancy equipment - can I still live stream?
YES! Don’t feel intimidated by other users who might have more expensive recording equipment. As long as you have a smartphone equipped with a good camera (pretty much all smartphones are nowadays), microphone, and a well-lit space, you’re good to go! If you want to learn more about how to film on your smartphone, check out our other blog post: Best Tips for Shooting Video on your Phone.
What do I live stream about?
You know your audience, so you know what they respond to. Make sure the topic of your live stream is relevant to your brand and something your followers would be interested in watching. Product launches, unboxings, important announcements, tutorials, Q&As, interviews and behind-the-scenes videos make great content for live streams. If you are stumped, try asking your followers directly what they would like to see in a social media poll.
Where should I stream?
Think about the platform that generates the most engagement for your brand and make that your main live streaming platform. For instance, YouTube personalities benefit most from doing their live streams on YouTube. If your audience is more prominent on Instagram, it would make sense to host your streams on that platform.
How would people know that I'm live streaming?
Unfortunately, it takes more than pressing record to create a successful live stream. Make sure you plan ahead and promote the live stream days or weeks in advance so people know when to tune in (just like the old days before the DVR)! Creating a descriptive and optimized title for your stream will also make it easier for people who don’t follow you to find your live stream by searching for keywords.
When it comes to live streaming, don’t feel like you have to become a pro overnight. Live streaming is about building a wider audience, becoming an active voice in your industry, and connecting with your community. Have any other questions about live streaming and building your social media presence? We are all ears!