I talk about this a lot. Having a video on your crowdfunding project increases your chances of success by up to 30%.
While it’s not the only ingredient of a successful crowdfunding project, it is an important one. Today I thought I’d address why it’s so important, just in case you needed a push to get in front of that camera.
You probably hate asking for money
I think this is the #2 reason crowdfunding projects fail (#1 being that your idea sucks).
When done right, all of the asking for money should happen on your page, not through your promotion.
The goal of your promotion is to get people to your page.
The goal of your page is to sell your product, vision, or dream to the viewer.
Your video makes it easier by asking for you
In a quick (and hopefully entertaining) 3 minutes or less, your video should outline:
- Your ambitions
- How you plan to achieve them
- Why it’s important
- Invite people to support the campaign.
While I do know some people who don’t bother watching the video, preferring instead to read the description, it’s not a high percentage of overall backers.
Most backers will skim your page, and if they are interested, they will watch your video to find out what it’s all about.
Your video is your top conversion tool
Getting people to your page is half the struggle. Getting them to support you is the other half.
Which is why it’s worth understanding the difference between your video, and your description.
Your video introduces you, and what you are doing. It builds trust with the backer and it shows your passion. People will have a pretty good idea as to whether they will be contributing by the end of it.
Your description covers the detail and the nitty-gritty. It answers the questions you don’t have time to cover in your video. For many supporters, including myself, the description is the piece that seals the deal. But some will support you off the back of your video alone.
It says a lot about your project, without saying it
I often tell people that their video is a reflection of their dedication to, and the quality of their project.
It’s about what the backer thinks when they see your video.
To my mind as a backer, if you are dedicated to bringing something truly spectacular to life, then you will show that same dedication in your video. It will be well-made, and convincing. Your passion will shine through in the care and attention to detail you bring.
But if you are just going about things in a half-hearted manner, your video will be lazy – or perhaps even non-existent.
The best example of this principle in action (and one of my pet peeves) is movie/video projects without a crowdfunding video. This is actually a representation of what you are capable of – make sure it’s good!
Making a good video tells your viewers this is something you care about
It convinces them that this is something they should care about, or want, as well.
A video is proven to dramatically increase your chances of successfully funding. They can be made cheaply and quickly.
There’s no excuse not to make one.
Looking for more tips on your crowdfunding video? Check out the articles in the ‘Your Video’ category.
