google-site-verification: google65e716d80989ba07.html How to Use Video in Your Genealogy Business | The Armchair Genealogist

How to Use Video in Your Genealogy Business



Videos are a huge part of business these days. It’s nearly impossible not to be using video in your business either through your website and blog content or through marketing your company and products.

There are a number of reasons why you should be using videos in your business. I’m also offering up a couple of ideas of how you can use video in your genealogy business.

Videos build trust. Videos are engaging and ignite emotions. Consider a video 15-second testimonial from a client that will share the satisfaction and emotional reward they received from your services. Or create short “thank you” videos from yourself to new customers.

Videos allow you to present material in a conversational format. Videos are great for explaining your research services or products. Film a screencast demo of your product.

 People like videos to solve problems. When people are looking to solve a problem, they are more likely to watch a video. Turn a how-to blog post into a how-to video. Use video to share a client success story or to explain your product.

 Google loves videos. If you have a video embedded on your homepage you are more likely going to show up higher in a google search.  Do a short introduction of your company, your mission and vision. Tell potential customers who land on your homepage how you can help them.

Mobile users also love videos. These days it’s all about mobile. Most videos are watched on mobile devices, and so video is must because everyone has a mobile device. Consider using live video from an industry event, conference. Etc.

Consumers find it easier to watch a video than reading a blog post. We live in a time of quick consumable information. We would rather watch a video than read a blog post. I’m not saying all your blog posts need to be videos but change it up from time to time. Maybe once in awhile do a live video or have a Q & A via Skype, Zoom or Google Hangouts. Instead of writing a genealogy tip or writing a story about a genealogy find, share it via a recorded video.

Videos are more likely to be shared across social media. Facebook loves videos. If you’re using video, you’re more likely to get shared. Consider filming one of your presentations with Q & A and then offer it up for free to watch across your platforms. Or consider a quick Facebook live event or a behind-the-scenes look at a genealogy field trip.



Here are some of my favourite video tools.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money to get started in video. Like I said earlier it’s not about perfection but rather about useful, engaging content.

Screencast-o-matic – for recording my screen and for teaching. I also use it for editing videos. I keep trying new editing programs but always return to this one.

Adobe Spark – is an awesome program for creating short videos.
Smartphone/ Go Pros – They are my go-to for recording myself on video. You really don’t need expensive, complicated equipment to get started. However, I do recommend a tripod with a remote, (affiliate link) here’s the one I have. It really helps to cut down on the editing.

Wistia – I use Wistia to host my videos and to brand them and embed them into my emails and websites.

Want to know just how much video can influence your business. Check out this video for some interesting facts.