One picture is worth a thousand words. We know this is true. So do our web developers, who like to point out that our sites could use more graphics, more visuals, fewer words. They base their assertions on some pretty solid research. You may have seen this oft-cited fact attributed to Dr. James McQuivey of Forrester Research: one minute of video is worth 1.8 million words. Another Forrester blogger, Nate Elliot, advised years ago that using video would boost your site's chances of landing upfront in a Google search. And executives searching online for new service providers and vendors have told me that video grabs their attention: they will happily watch a short video to learn about you and your business. Make a positive video impression, and they will likely proceed to your written details: bio, client list, and other content.

OK (you are thinking), I am sure many companies have stories that lend themselves easily to video. A virtual "tour" of their recently completed projects, cool infographics explaining why their products or services can increase customer ROI. But that's not me. And yet. . . I am sure many of us carry around the mental image of our perfect video: great testimonials from super-satisfied clients or business partners, B-roll of us purposefully striding through myriad workplaces (underscored by individual "theme music"). Of course this personal business "commercial" contains fun graphics and ends with a killer tag line. Such a 90-second spot is a worthy marketing goal -- but something we really need to save up for!

Meeting you where you are

Your foray into the world of business video need not feel like "one giant leap." Consider a short 60-second biography, a "story of you," pitching your expertise and sharing your unique personal approach to problem-solving. Show prospective clients your winning personality and positive attitude. This precious minute will accomplish what those 1.8 million words never could. You will actively engage the viewer, the first step toward turning that viewer into a client.

Sound a bit daunting? Never fear: I have developed Focus on You, a service for creating a compelling, professionally-produced video to put on your website, post to LinkedIn, YouTube, wherever it can generate "buzz." I will use all the tools in my Communications Artist toolbox to help you make a video that shows you at your best. And I guarantee you will enjoy the process.

Take the chance to be the star in your own business story; you'll be glad you did (special introductory rate and returning client discount available)!