Ok, so you’ve got your business up and running, and a great product that’s going to solve people’s problems. How to sell it? Easy! Make an explainer video. But wait, what is an explainer video and how do you make one? We’re glad you asked, because we’re about to tell you.
What It Is
Explainer videos are easily the most powerful type of video your brand can (and should) make. They explain what your product or service is, and how to use it. Plus, they’re reported to have increased conversion rates for some sites by up to 144%! Yep, you read that right. Incredible! Because video is by far the preferred method of learning for most potential customers. And it’s memorable, which is what you want for your product or service: to be remembered.
Types of Explainer Videos
One of the great benefits of using video for your brand, is creativity. As with all video, explainer videos come in several forms. 3 of these types are listed below:
- Animated explainer videos. These are great if your product is intangible (like a financial company). They allow for extra creativity, and don’t require a full cast of actors. Here’s one we created, to give you an idea.
- Live-action explainer videos. Probably the most common type, these work well if you want to make it more relatable. After all, we as humans are naturally drawn to other human faces.
- Whiteboard animation explainer videos. These are as they sound: video in which animation is hand drawn and erased on a whiteboard. Simple and cost effective, if that’s what you need.
How to Make an Explainer Video
Depending on whether or not you’re using a video production company, some of these responsibilities may (or may not) be yours. But the essential needs to make an explainer video are:
- Writing the script. This is the most important part, usually written by you or one of your team members. Keep it clear and short, explaining why your product solves your customer’s problem.
- Adding voiceover. Again, this is a choice you’ll need to make, depending on if you’re hiring a pro voiceover actor or recording it yourself. If going solo, be sure to record on a high quality mic, in a soundproof (or quiet) space. Keep it natural, as heard here.
- Adding music/sound effects. While you may be hiring a professional audio engineer to tackle this, it’s still very likely you’ll want to choose the music. Music sets the overall tone for the viewer, so be sure it compliments what’s being said.
To Hire or Not Hire?
Of course making an explainer video requires proper cameras and editing software to film and finish, depending on which type of video you’re producing. If your business has these capabilities, wonderful! If not, plan on either hiring a freelance videographer or a full-fledged video production company to bring your vision to life. The cost may seem intimidating at first for these, but once you factor in time and equipment rentals, etc…it actually will save you money in the end. And hey, if you need a referral, we might know a guy. 🙂