Just thinking about making a video can be scary or intimidating. But the good news is that if you follow the tips below, you can create an effective video with a few takes on your phone.
First, your audience matters.That’s why before you start working on the video, do some research on the leader(s) you selected. Their Vintro profile outlines the type of engagement they are interested in. You should also search for information that will help you establish any points of intersection between your business and them. For example, if you have a golf product, and you know they play golf, mention it. People like to see you’ve done your homework!
The goal is to make your ask crystal clear so that the leader watching it doesn’t spend time trying to figure out what your business is, and what you’re after.
Watch Alastair Lukies, CBE, explain what makes a perfect video introduction.
How do you make a good video great?
1. Hook the viewer
You don’t have time for a slow start. Within the first 30 seconds, you should:
- Grab the viewer’s attention
- Introduce yourself, share why this company/product/idea matters to you. A personal story or anecdote is a great way to do this!
- Introduce your product
- Show users how it will benefit them
2. Focus on benefits: how does your product make life better?
There’s a difference between benefits and features. A feature is a technical part of a product. Nike has soles with great stability. However, the benefit is how it makes our lives better. Nike helps us feel like an athlete. Focus on the benefits of a product first. Then talk about the product’s key features.
3. Be authentic!
Fundamentally, Vintro is about connecting people. Flashy graphics should be used only if they directly support a point you’re trying to make. Some of the most successful Vintro videos have been selfie-style taken on iPhones. Leaders and experts get excited about a product or business when they connect with the person behind it. So keep it real.
4. Make sure your audio is clear!
Good audio is key. Record your video in a quiet space to eliminate white noise and static. If anything is at all unclear, or if you have an accent, consider using subtitles.
6. End with your ask - what kind of help do you need?
A call-to-action is a direct statement that asks people to do something. If you want them to invest or partner with you, give you advice or make introductions — then make sure you say it!
Try to see the video through the eyes of someone who knows nothing about your product. You don’t need to explain every detail. You just need to answer the questions above in the clearest and most engaging way possible.
THE STRUCTURE - 3 Simple Steps:
1) Introduce Yourself
Great business relationships start with human connections. The Vintro Leader won’t know who you are unless you tell them! What makes you uniquely qualified to bring this business to life?
You don’t have time for a slow start. Within the first 30 seconds, you should:
- Grab the viewer’s attention
- Introduce your product clearly
- Show users how it will benefit them
- If you have a team, show a photo.
2) Describe your Business or Opportunity
Here’s your time to talk passionately about what you’re working on. What problem are you trying to solve for the world? Why are you passionate about it? Be specific and avoid embellishment or fluffy adjectives.
Every video should answer some very basic questions for the leader:
- Who are you? Why is this your passion?
- What is the product?
- How does it make my life better?
- How will I use it?
- What phase are you in? (Idea, Start-up, Seed A, etc).
The better you describe your opportunity, the more insightful they can be with their feedback.
Pro Tips: Add a couple photos or visuals to bring your opportunity to life. For example, show photos of your product, website/app, and any metrics if they support your case.
3) What are you asking for?
End the video by clearly stating what kind of help you need.
Specify what you need, but be open to other help as well.
For example, if you're asking for investment, you should consider broadening the chances that the person you're pitching will help by also asking for any introductions to anyone that the leader knows that can help with your capital raise.
"We are raising our [X] round of $[X], and want you to be an investor. Also, if you know someone that would be a good fit, we'd love it if you could make an introduction or point us in the right direction."
120 Second Pitch Summary:
-
Who you are
-
What you do
-
Why you do it
-
What your ask is
Final Tips:
- Most leaders watch videos on their phones, so keep in mind that text embedded in screenshots is often too small to read. Vintro discourages the use of PowerPoint-style slides in your video.
- Vintro does not recommend using music in your pitch. If you choose to do so, make sure your voice is clearly audible above the background music.
Remember, Vintro Leaders are always looking for great businesses to support or the next big idea, and are hoping it will be you! Be yourself, show your passion and you’re on your way!
Our Vintro Customer Success Team is ready to help you make your video great! Send us a copy of your draft video message to hello@myvintro.com and we will get back to you shortly.