According to Cisco, by the year 2017, 69% of consumer internet traffic will be from online video. If you think about it, that makes a lot of sense - video is a great way to satisfy the people's information and entertainment needs. Not only do they obtain the information they want, but they also become visually engaged in what you're presenting to them.

Here are some simple tips to get you started in using videos to drive more traffic to your website:

Use the Basics to your Advantage

Although you don't need to hire a professional videographer to shoot your videos, you do need to remember the very basics of lighting, audio and camera to make a polished video.

1. To see what you're presenting, make sure that sufficient lighting is available on the person or the object that's on camera. There's nothing more annoying than not being able to see the expressions on the presenter's face or the details of the item being shown.
2. In conjunction to presenting, ensure that a microphone is available to catch the presenter's voice. You wouldn't want your customers to miss out on the important information you're promoting.
3. While filming, ensure that you're holding the camera steadily and avoid quick and jerky movements. If you have the funds, invest in a camera stand so you don't have to hold it up throughout the filming process.
4. If you're the one presenting, keep it simple and always look at the camera. This is your way of keeping eye contact with your customers. Emotions are contagious, so remember to be passionate and excited about what you're presenting.

Incorporate Social Media

Once you have edited your video, use the different social media pages to distribute and post your videos; this may include posting it on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest and YouTube. Remember that the more outlet you have, the more likely people will stumble upon your page and view your video.

Add Links

After people watch your videos, they will likely want more information about the ideas and/or items that were presented. This is your chance to re-direct them to your website. Often people visiting a website can be converted to a customer. But even if visitors don't end up purchasing anything, the traffic to your site means an increase in ranking in search engines.

Content

Remember, use videos as your voice to the online community. You don't need a complicated idea or expensive production to make a compelling video. A simple "how-to" of the products you're selling will be useful to your customers. Customers enjoy watching simple and creative videos of products they have recently bought and its many uses - take advantage of that.

The process of making a video may seem like a daunting task, but research has shown that it is an effective medium in reaching your audience. Use the above tips and get started on filming your online video now!