Ghost Writer

Video and Search Engine Optimization

June 6, 2008 on 3:34 am | In SEO | No Comments

One of the most effective methods for marketing on the Internet and generating Web Site traffic, is through the production and distribution of Internet video. Done properly, Web video can create dramatic and nearly immediate results, however if not done well, it will have at best have no effect and can possibly even negatively impact your Internet marketing strategies.

I do not suggesting that you hire a professional production crew. An amateur video can go just as far and be just as effective, but it’s essential to understand a few things:

It is imperative that you keep your video short and to the point. The length of your video should be limited to between one and five minutes. People who are looking for information on the Internet, particularly in the video arena, are looking for quick concise information. Many of the most successful videos on the web are actually under 60 seconds.

Make certain that your video has value. If a surfer finds and takes the time to view your video, he is looking for expedited knowledge. You must provide the information promised. Failure to do so will produce negative comments negative ratings and destroy the possibility of a positive viral effect.

To be well received, a video should be professionally crafted and by that I mean, it should have a beginning, a middle and an end. The beginning should be a brief (ten second or so) introduction, explaining the nature of the video, the middle should be solid meat , all wrapped up nice and neatly with a ten second close. These are not hard and fast rules, obviously, but they should give you an idea about basic structure.

Make certain your videos if not humorous, are at least entertaining. Competition is stiff. If you wish your videos to stand out, they must produce some satisfaction in the eyes of viewer. Some of the most effective videos, even on topics as dry as Internet marketing, are conceived in humor, not necessarily childish slapstick, but enough mirth to make a viewer smile inside while learning.

If you produce your video properly, you will be widely accepted and word of it will spread throughout your corner of the web and beyond, bearing the fruit of increased page views and a boost to your bottom line, which after all is why you’re doing it. Failure to craft your video properly will cause it to die on the vine.

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Jeff Wild, founder and president Artitude Inc. and Strategic Web Success has been helping businesses achieve success on the Web since 1994. He’s a master of traditional traffic generating techniques as well as innovative Web 2.0 strategies.