Clever marketing with YouTube 4:33pm 10.04.08

YouTube, it’s free, easy to use, and an estimated 100 million clips are viewed daily. Kristen Vang from Media Motivators describes it as “a marketer’s dream.” She gives the example of a blender company that became an international sensation, after posting their Will It Blend video clip online. Marbles, coke cans and rakes were all blended. The clip has been viewed more than 5 million times with 10,000 comments made.

Vang lists eight points on how to use the marketing tool, which Time Magazine named 2006’s Invention of the Year.

1. Rehearse

A quick rehearsal will ensure you don’t stumble and stutter through your words, and will make the clip will flow.

2. Make your video worth watching

Success on the site depends on how interesting your clip is. Consider whether you would watch it if you weren’t promoting your own business.

3. Know the difference between demonstrations and commercials

Commercials are not permitted on YouTube, but demonstrations are completely different. Just show what your product or service does.

4. Edit

Chances are your computer will have simple editing software, and if it doesn’t it can be purchased on the cheap. You don’t want your audio and video to be a mess.

5. Tags are everything

Tags will make your clip clear and easy to find. They’re also what search engines like Google look for, so be clear and concise to make your clip pop up.

6. Develop a Personal Channel

YouTube is a social network – make the most of it! Get community members to subscribe, so they’re alerted whenever you load a new clip. Also encourage them to rate your clip and leave feedback. Plus don’t forget to add your clip to other similar clips as a video response.

7. Embed your video in your other online media

Don’t just leave your clip on YouTube. Load it onto other websites, blogs and more, with the HTML code YouTube provides.

8. Have fun

Marketing is a great way to get your business name out there, but remember YouTube is a form of entertainment. Watch other clips, get inspired and have fun making your own!