So now that we've gotten that out of the way. Let's talk about how to jump in to video during the holidays. This is a great time of year to post video on social media.
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You already know video is huge right now. You'll read about it in industry publications, online articles, hear about it from consultants and marketing peers. Plus, I'm telling you about it right now. 

Here's the one thing I want you to remember. There are a lot of really cool things you can do with video and I don't want you to worry about that yet. Because first I just want you to focus on getting your first video out there before running down rabbit holes of "cool stuff" you can do. Here are 5 tips to help you get started in video: 

From all of the clients I've talked to, the ONLY thing holding them back from creating and posting a video on social media is themselves. I get it! It's a new world! Suddenly you have to make your own videos - from your phone! - and post them yourself. But if you think about it - this is actually a blessing. It's more affordable then finding a studio. It's faster than booking a studio and acting talent. And it's much more personable. People LOVE seeing the owners and employees of businesses on social media. It helps them connect to you.

There are a few (cheap) things you can buy to make your videos look a bit more profesh (i.e., professional).
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Get a tripod to keep your phone steady (and then you don't have to use your laptop camera which might give you that "second-chin" look you weren't going for. 

Use lapel microphone to cut out background noise. 

Employ a selfie light to brighten up your video. Makes your eyes look brighter!

So this sounds crazy, but just asking someone to be in your video with you (even if they're just standing there nodding at the camera) can calm you down, make you less nervous, and help you perform better. So grab a co-worker and ask them to nod into the camera while you talk.

It also doesn't hurt to ask around to see if any employees/co-workers LIKE to be on camera. Hey, maybe they want the spotlight and you can be behind the scenes. 

Because people can tell when you're not. Talk about awkward. You're worried about your hair and outfit and sounding stupid. Your audience is wondering if they should call 911 because it looks like you're having a stroke. I'm serious when I say, don't be so serious. SMILE! Breath. You'll get through it - promise!

(You don't really need Nikes.) Set a date/time for when you're going to make your video (or even go live on Facebook!) and crank it out. Force yourself to do it. Get it done. Check it off your list. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy because you'll see it wasn't so bad and you didn't look stupid.