How to Get the Right Talent for Your Video

The talent in your video need not be professional actors. In fact, in many cases you will be better served with genuine statements from people who work for and patronize your business: the owner, managers, staff, customers, etc. Hired actors can be counterproductive to a business video, because your potential customers want the inside scoop on what you do, not your sales pitch.

In a 60 - 90 second video, the ideal amount of speakers is 1 - 5 people: 1-2 main speakers (owner, staff member), with up to three additional "testimonial speakers" who tell the camera about their experience with your business. The important thing is to decide in advance who these speakers will be, so that you can schedule them for the date and time of the shoot.

The speakers' preparation can be minimal, or even nonexistent. A script is neither necessary nor encouraged. All that is required of the speaker is genuine enthusiasm. The editor can take care of the rest.

In additional to speakers, you may need to schedule people who will prominently appear on camera, visually presenting your business in action. For example, if your business is a hair salon, you will want several people available to appear as clients getting their hair done, as well as plenty of stylists around to do the work. Just ask yourself, "on an ideal day, who would be here?" and then make the necessary arrangements to get those people at your business on the day of the shoot. Usually it's an easy task - call up a few customers and offer them a free service in exchange for appearing in your video.