One billion people visit YouTube every month—and you can bet that your employees are part of the crowd viewing videos on how to make a margarita or fold a fitted sheet.
Why are videos so popular? Since we’re all so pressed for time, we’d rather watch a short clip than read a document. One of the best ways to use videos for internal communication is to explain a complex topic like a new IT process or choosing among medical plans.
9 elements of a great how-to video
1. Establish credibility right up front
Feature an expert
2. Make visuals the star
Show, don’t tell
3. Explain the end result in the beginning
Set expectations
4. Have fun
Don’t be stuffy
5. Emphasize information by using features like zoom
Make it stick
6. Be brief
Keep it short
7. Simplify language
Keep it easy to read
8. Organize content
Create a nice flow
9. Create a call to action
Leave your employees with something to do