Small Businesses Produce Big Returns Using Video Online

Small businesses can benefit from the use of video online in big ways, but have been slow to adopt video because clear, simple information on when, where, why, what and how to do it right have been missing. A new website and meeting series aim to fill the void.

Roscoe, IL (PRWEB) May 20, 2006 -- Small businesses who are unsure of what they need to do or how they can use or profit from today's new online video creation and distribution tools have two new places to turn for answers beginning this week. Internet Consultant, Liz Micik, today announced the launch a new website, http://www.usevideoonline.com and that she will offer classes open to anyone interested in learning more about how to profit from online video use.

“Right now, anyone with a PC, an Internet connection and a webcam can switch from text to videoemail, easily post videos on websites and even create and broadcast their own live TV programs,” Micik said. “But creating your own video that will help drive sales, or teach a customer how to do something, is a totally different story. You can't just do it; you have to do it right."

Micik has gathered links to more than 20 examples of streaming videos created and used by businesses on the usevideoonline website. Only one was shot and edited by a professional videographer, though many are intended for use as company commercials. Another is a half hour long documentary that aired on cable TV.

Micik's favorite example, however, literally is a home movie. It comes from a realtor who refuses to pay for the professionally produced virtual home tours available through video specialists in her area. Instead, Ms. Charmaine Hornick of Las Vegas, NV, relies on a friend to hold the camera while she personally walks through a home tour. Hornick says her use of video alone has helped her sell more than 16 houses.

“The most difficult part of the video production process for most people is not technical,” Micik explained. “It’s getting over the idea that what they produce has to rival what comes out of Hollywood. What people see on this site is what really works, what’s bringing in 30% more responses for an average sales message, and why more companies are committing more of their advertising and marketing dollars to video use online.”

Micik is also offering introductory briefings on the emerging online video marketplace, the business behind the tools she uses and how they will be reshaping business over the next five years on Wednesday evenings. During the one hour meeting, she also gives attendees a chance to take a close up look at how the web-based, video tools work by sending a videoemail message to anyone they want.

“Once someone has a chance to use video for themselves, they’re hooked,” she said. “My goal is to get people over that initial hurdle to video adoption now, so when the really big changes arrive in three months, no one will be shocked. They’ll be ready for them.”

Briefings begin promptly at 7:45 pm on Wednesday evenings through June when Micik expects a new version of her suite of video products to be released. People interested in attending a briefing should call 815-986-8682 for locations and directions.

Liz Micik is a 27 year veteran marketer who has spent the last 10 working with online clients. She owns two firms operating in the northern Illinois area and on the Internet; Stateline WebWorks and Power Presenters. Stateline WebWorks helps clients develop effective Internet business strategies and the websites and web marketing that execute them. Through Power Presenters, Micik delivers her consulting services to corporate clients who want to create or repurpose existing multimedia for online use, and to the public through seminars, workshops and the articles and books she has written on the subject. More information can be found by visiting http://www.usevideonline.com, http://www.powerpresenters.com, or http://www.wsiwebcomms.com

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