Confidence Tips For Making Reels, TikToks & Videos For Your Small Business
I love making videos and being on TV - I have even appeared on live TV! I also enjoy making Reels, Tik Toks, and doing IGTV.
But I know many of you don't. You tell me that you hate how you look, how you sound. You tell me that you are too old. You tell me that no one is interested in what you have to say.
Newsflash - NONE OF THIS IS TRUE!
It is in our heads (it is sometimes in mine too - I HATE my voice and I have a weird eye that is smaller than the other one which I bet only I see) so today I wanted to share a few tips to help with confidence.
1. Get The Lighting Right
You need to have white light or natural light coming from behind your camera onto your face to look your best. Poor lighting will make the video look less professional but also make you look tired (basically it shows up my dark eyes!). Yellow light from a normal bulb isn't that great either. Position your camera in front of a window and let that light flood your face. Or invest in a light ring - you can get a small one for your phone or a larger one for an even better effect.
I made a Reel and TikTok about this - see them here!
2. Consider Makeup
Now this one is a bit contentious as I would never tell you how to look, but believe me, a bit of blusher works wonders for making you look brighter and more awake! Believe me! Even pinching your cheeks beforehand will help!
3. Review Your Background
Want to look professional? Have a look at what is in the background and ask yourself whether it reflects you and your brand? If you can not create a fancy backdrop, at least have a tidy up as no one wants to see an overflowing bin or the sink full of dirty dishes.
4. Plan What You Are Going To Say
This one really helps! If you worry about waffling or going off track, prepare what you are going to say. Write bullet points on a piece of paper and refer to them throughout. It is OK to look down occasionally (I mention that I have notes to ensure I capture everything). If need be you could always practice beforehand.
5. Pre-record
If you are nervous about going live, then choose to pre-record instead. This way you can redo it if you are not happy. But don't over analyse as done is better than perfect!
6. Start small
I started my videos by creating one minute pre-recorded tips. This way, they were easy to make and felt more manageable. Maybe start without your face in them but your voice only.
Finally remember, that video gets more engagement. About 60% more!
Oh and no one sees what you see as your imperfections. They see someone that is knowledgeable! They will love you!
If you want ideas on WHAT to post on Reels and on IGTV? Our Instagram Stories and Reels masterclass is still available to buy here.