During conversations with a number of subscribers this week the theme of video has come up several times. 

I just wanted to offer some info on the subject of video marketing for you today.

First of all although video is becoming one of the best ways to market online, that doesn't mean you need to suddenly become a video star! So don't let this put you off if the idea of appearing on camera is daunting (it is for most people - at least at first) 

The truth is that there are lots of ways you can use video in your online marketing without actually facing a camera.

At present for example I'm using a system called Veeroll to do video ads for Youtube. The videos used are short animations that don't feature any actual people at all and they are extremely effective. 

I just choose one of their cool templates, insert a few lines of text and send it off to them. 15 minutes or so later it's uploaded to my channel for me ready to rock! 

With Powerpoint, Keynote or many other presentation programs you can make seriously good slide show presentations and turn them into videos. You can insert text, pictures and animations into those and quickly create some great video.

      Here's one I made for an energy saving product as an example

You can also outsource the whole thing very cheaply with resources like fiverr.com 

That's an extremely useful place where all sorts of skilled people provide a huge range of services costing (as the name suggests) $5 each. There are loads of people there offering to do short videos for you at that price. 

I'd still encourage you to consider getting in front of a camera eventually though. You don't need fancy equipment or incredible acting skills - in fact the more natural the better.  

One of SFM's senior affiliates kicked off an idea last year called the 90 day video challenge to help people get started with video. It's been so popular and successful that it has become a suggested part of the curriculum. 

It's a completely private Facebook group so you don't need to worry about the whole world seeing your early videos! 

It's purely for SFM members and as you are evolving your video skills along in the company of lots of other people in a "safe" environment, it's a fantastic way to learn and get encouragement, tips and support as you go. 

But as I say - it's by no means essential to use videos of you in your marketing if it's seriously not for you. 

If you are a member of SFM and want help with video just ask - I have considerable experience in video production and editing and am always happy to help. 

So don't fear the video!  

Have a great weekend! 

Cheers