Like any good blog owner, I read several of the top blogs about blogging. Over the last few months in particular, one of them has talked a lot about using video in your blog and how you can benefit from it. I haven’t yet made the jump into adding video posts to Outlaw Design Blog, but that will be coming with the sites upgrade in a few months. Some of the points Pro Blogger, Darren Rowse, made me ask myself; why not use video a portfolio site as well?
Why Use Video on Your Portfolio?
Now, I am not suggesting you start a little video blog for your portfolio site, but more use it as a tool to promote yourself and your brand. We will talk about ways to do this later in the port. For now, I want to concentrate on why you should use video in your portfolio.
See this video on Pro Blogger for a great example.
How many times have you worked on a project and never even talked to the client on the phone, let alone met them in person? It is easy to forget that clients are people and not just a project. On the flip side of the coin, many clients tend to see freelancers as disposable goods and forget that they too are people.
By using video on your site, you can help bring a face and personality to your name and your blog. Even if you one go so far as to add short bio video on your about page, you will have a one up on the competition. That video on your portfolio helps make you stand out. You are no longer just another portfolio on the internet, but a real person with a face and everything!
Some clients are still timid about doing work over the web. Having that video on your site will make them feel more comfortable about working with you. They will instantly feel more connected to you and thus more interested in working with you over the mystery man on the other website who doesn’t even have a photo on his about page.
How to Use Video on Your Portfolio
About Me Video
Many freelancers have an about me page. Some are better than others, that is for sure. Usually people add a photo of themselves here, but why not add a video as well? Make a short two or three minute video telling your potential client a little bit about who you are, how you design, and your business ethics? That is sure to create an about page that people will remember.
Video Project Briefs
Normally designers will write a little information about each project that is in their portfolio. Why not record a video about the project as well? This doesn’t have to be anything long, just a short minute long video talking about your thoughts on the project, working with the client, and other notes about the design.
Welcome Message
You can always record a super short video to post up on your home page as well. Make a 30 or 45 second video welcoming clients to your websites and tell them to check out your about me page for more information on who you are.
Add a Link to Your Video Bio in Your Signature
You probably already have a link to your portfolio in your email signature, but why not promote your newly recorded video as well? Add a small line under your portfolio link that reads something like; About Me - Check out my short bio video here.
Customer Testimonials
Videos don’t have to be limited to you. See if you can get clients to record their own 30 second video testimonial about working with you? This will go a long way in making new clients feel more comfortable about working with you.
