Hi. Welcome to CNU on video. Today I want to talk a little bit about testimonials. But I prefer to call them Client Success Stories. This is because you don’t just want someone “giving a testimonial” for your company on video.

People want to hear an actual story.

So, here are some tips on how you can turn testimonials into great Video Success Stories.

First, this isn’t a grade school photo, so don’t have your subject stand against a wall. This can make the video look flat and two dimensional. To add more depth and remove shadows, put them in the middle of the room about 6-8 feet from the background.

Next, this is the Shape of Video. This is your cell phone. Video, cell phone, Video, Cell phone. Hold your cell phone horizontally when shooting. It’s the shape of video.

Next, line up your shot. Make sure there’s not too much room above their head, but don’t cut it off at the top either.
Try to have them either centered, or slightly off center facing inward.

The message is the most important part, so if you can, use a microphone. There are clip on microphones available for less than $20 that plug right into your cell phone. It reduces background noise and makes their voice more clear.

Also, stop shaky video. Put your camera or cell phone on a tripod or steady surface when recording.

If you don’t have a tripod, you can use a simple piece of string to help keep it stable.

Like I said earlier you want a success story, not just a testimonial. In order to get that success story, you’ll need to ask the right questions. Before, during, and after.

What was the problem you had that prompted you to talk to me?What did you like best about working with me? And how have things improved since working with me?

Also, keep in mind that some people ramble the first time you ask a question and are much more concise the second time, and other people give a great answer the first time but struggle the second because they are trying to remember what they said the first time. Always ask the question twice so you can pick the better of the two.

Finally, keep the video short. Tell them you’re looking for 30 seconds. You’ll get about a minute. You really don’t want anything longer than that.

I hope this has been helpful. Now go get some fabulous success stories from your clients. If you have any additional questions or need any extra help. Give us a call at (314) 843-3663, that’s 314-video me.