Overcome Tech Overwhelm: An introvert's guide to creating video content
As a sensitive, female small business owner striving for more balance with work and life is tough. And the idea of creating video content can seem overwhelming and time-consuming for an introvert. When you’re on your own, there’s no tech department to call. But I think with focused, succinct online learning and accountability, you can develop the skills to enhance your online presence.
The best part? You can do it with minimal gear, in small pockets of time, without resorting to gimmicky trends you see on social media like dancing around pointing at things on a screen for views. I believe there is space to create authentic, impactful video content that aligns with your values, respects your time, and maybe even has fun, too.
Why create video content for social media or any online platforms?
Knowing the reason why you need to tackle a new skill is important - it's the juice that will motivate you to move forward with learning a new skill. Here are some of the reasons to create video marketing content:
To share your experience and expertise = they value the price of your product or service more
To teach your audience something new = to build trust in your skills because you're helping them fix a problem. I have recently started a YouTube channel where I interview other women in business - so I’m using this as a tool to learn new things myself and bonus it gives value to my audience through education.
To build connection and community = the-feel-good-vibes when you get to know people in your online community - they are more likely to buy from you when they might need something you offer.
To inspire them = what part of your work/life could you share to inspire you audience - what excites you?
When you break it down into what you're trying to achieve it makes the idea of creating video marketing content feel less sleazy and salesy. You're really just using video as a tool to build trust and connection with your audience.
working through the learning curve
My university degree in photography gave me confidence in my skill set early on in my career. But for video, I've been on a self-taught path, using online resources, gradually expanding my comfort zone, and learning from both successes and challenges.
I have felt overwhelmed constantly, not knowing which information to take on board, buying camera gear I didn’t need and following advice that was really misaligned with my personality type. I know what course I would have wanted when I first started, but it wasn’t most of the ones I’ve paid for.
Learn from people who speak your language
An internet search can be so overwhelming when deciding whose advice to follow or what video equipment to choose. Many tech-focused creators are men and use highly technical language and talk fast; which can be off-putting for those of us seeking relatable guidance.
The key is to find resources that speak to your needs – instructors or guides who explain concepts in everyday terms and understand your perspective as a thoughtful business owner. You don't need to become a tech expert; or be obsessed about the latest tech trends, understanding the basics is enough to create engaging content.
Focus on the bare minimum
As busy business owners, we often just need the essential tips to create content that connects with our audience. Focus on learning the minimum necessary to create simple, quality content pieces that showcase your products and services.
Your goal is to connect with your audience through valuable content that reflects your approach to business and life - not to be someone you’re not. Your sensitivity and varied interests are strengths - I promise you don't have to be an extrovert to find your place.
By focusing on intentional learning and being accountable to someone, you can overcome tech overwhelm and confidently create video content that builds connection with your audience.
Learning Tips for Video Content
1. Learn: Find a concise, relatable online resource or course that explains concepts in simple terms. Opt for succinct content - don't get swayed by unnecessary extras or overpromising of someone's one-size-fits-all marketing strategies. You're investing in focused learning, not endless chapter you
2. Research/Inspiration: Identify content creators whose style resonates with you. Study their videos closely:
What aspects of their approach appeal to you?
How many different shots do they use?
Do you notice any imperfections? (see, it’s ok to be “imperfect”)
Analyse their format: talking to camera, behind-the-scenes, how-to guides, etc.
3. Plan: Dedicate specific time for learning and practice within your routine. Start with simple videos to build confidence, try just doing voice-over videos to begin before talking straight to the camera. Outline a basic story and list potential shots - video requires more pre-planning than photography.
4. Be Accountable + Share: Find an accountability partner or join a course with built-in accountability to ensure you complete and share your videos. This approach has been particularly effective for me when joining some online courses that require me submit work by a due date, like courses that Dani Gardener offers. I’ve signed up for so many online courses I haven’t finish and this is the first course I’ve 100% completed, the most important ingredient being: dues dates give you accountability.
And I have also connected with a few women in business, both in-person and online, who know what my goals are, and they ask me how I am tracking my progress. By finding a crew of other women to share your failures and success stories you'll avoid the constant feeling of imposter syndrome that loves to creep into our consciousness whenever we try trying something new.
Final advice
You can create authentic videos without compromising your values or work-life balance by focusing on essential skills and finding resources that speak your language. Start small, learn the basics, and build confidence gradually - your communication skills will get better. Remember, your unique perspective and your introvert quirks are an asset. With some focused learning and accountability, you can develop the skills to enhance your online presence through video - on your own terms and in your own time.
Thanks for reading Honey x
You can check out my bio here.
