Think…Errr…Write Before You Speak

Written by Alice Seba

think For the most part, we’re still stuck in the so-called dark ages at Contentrix. We like to work with and communicate with the (VERY EFFECTIVE) written word. Sure, we do audio interviews and even some video – but it all comes back to our roots – words.

And seriously, if you want polished multi-media content – written words.

Every interview or video I’ve created (or at least the good ones…I apologize for the others), started with detailed notes, a script or some kind of written guideline. I’m not an accomplished speaker – just a half-decent writer – but having done my silent homework first helped create much more polished and informative audio and video marketing pieces.

Just look at or listen to some of the content some people have out there. It’s awkward. It’s repetitive. It’s dull. Spontaneity does have it’s place, but if you want to make an impact, you’ve got to know where you’re headed. Sometimes that means planning a script or at least jotting down some brief notes so you know what you want to end up with.

That’s why movies are done with a script. What if we let the actors run wild? You might say we’d end up with ever-popular reality TV, but reality TV is NOT the same as winging it on your audio or video (you lose control of your desired marketing message). Reality TV is often scripted to some degree, but even when it’s not…it’s massively edited before it reaches our drama-hungry eyes. Even a documentary is prepared with a very specific written plan, even if some of the commentary is completely off-the-cuff.

Some tips for thinking before you speak:

If someone asks to interview you for an audio or video, insist that they send you the questions ahead of time.
Prepare for an interview in a way that suits you best. For some, it will be writing out a complete script (but only if you can do it without sounding like you’re simply reading) and for others, it will be jotting down speaking points, so you remember what the heck you want to say.
If you’re recording a video of yourself talking to your audience – keep some notes or a script handy. If you’re using a web cam, you can have your notes on the screen. Or place the notes near your camera. That way, it will look natural as you refer to them.
Break up your audio and video between scripted talk and spontaneous discussion. Add a scripted introduction and/or conclusion to your recordings that addresses details you may have missed, promotion you want to mention, etc.

Nobody’s perfect and we all stumble when we speak…but having a written plan ahead of time will allow you to wow your audience and draw them in to take action on your offers.

Ready for More Profit with Content?

If you'd like to learn to create content that builds your business, simply enter your first name and email address below and click "Subscribe". You'll instantly receive your guide and we'll keep you up-to-date with what's happening at Contentrix, content marketing news and more.