Most people have just what they need to create a video on their smartphone. Below are a few tips to get you started.

1.Position your subject based on the rule of thirds.

2. Using an external microphone can dramatically improve your video. Here is an option for the iPhone and for the Android, both of which can be ordered on Amazon. If you don’t have an external microphone make sure that anyone who is talking is within three feet of the phone.

3. Be aware of your light source. If your light source is behind the subject you are filming, the subject will be in dark shadow.

4. Film your subject on a simple background. The background does not have to be a solid color, but it should not have several distracting elements like things moving or colors that are similar to the subject.

Lay out your goals and objectives

When you set your goals, make them attainable and break them down into smaller action steps.
Examples:

• Use numbers (such as: reach 5000 Instagram followers)
• Always set a deadline
• Be specific with your goals
• Make your goals in line with your entire marketing strategy

Research and learn about your audience

• Survey your audience to help answer potential questions or solve problems
• Look carefully at their demographics
• Take part in conversations on forums filled with your target audience
• Reply to all comments or questions on your social media channels
• Collect feedback (using one of the many user feedback tools available)

Run contests to amp up your social media strategy

• Figure out your goals (do you want more Facebook page likes? Instagram followers? How many?)
• Decide what social media channel you’ll host the contest on
• Come up with a deadline for when it’ll end and when the winner will receive their prize
• Create the contest (look at different types and choose the right one for your audience)
• Promote it heavily

Craft your social media content carefully

• Use copywriting techniques
• Address your audience directly
• Use snappy, witty, or intriguing hooks to begin your social media posts
• Switch it up with different content types (Try linking to blog posts, videos, ask questions, etc)
• Always write a description on every link you post (Don’t just put the headline of the post)
• Use scheduling tools to help organize your content

Take advantage of video content in your strategy

• Have student workers in your office help you gather videos that help amplify your message
• Look for video tips online (YouTube has a ton of great examples)
• Share videos to your stories

Create and share images that grab the users attention

YouTube is great for learning how to take great photos with your phone

Promotion is key to your entire strategy

• Cross promote between your other social profiles
• Collaborate with influencers in your industry
• Run a social media contest that encourages participants to follow you
• Leverage other platforms you have access to -for example, after someone subscribes to your email list, invite them to follow you on social media

Consider the latest trends and changes

• Live video content is only climbing and is continuing to grow
• Instagram stories are a go-to tactic for businesses
• Messaging apps are on the rise for a way for consumers to speak to businesses
• Influencer marketing is all the rage
• Virtual reality in marketing is becoming more popular.