“Don’t live stream just for the sake of doing it.”

Most people are familiar with live streaming and know that you can livestream to YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, your own website, or to a service like Twitch. Things such as Running a “Facebook Live” have become mainstream, where a business or individual will host a live Q&A session. This type of livestream marketing is growing in popularity so much so that even LinkedIn launched a live streaming platform for things such as product announcements, live coverage of events, Q&As, tutorials, brand takeovers, earnings calls, ceremonies, and more.

Here are a few tips for live streaming:

1. Make sure the subject you’re livestreaming about is live stream worthy

Don’t live stream just for the sake of doing it. Have a plan so you know what points you want to make, and the goal for the stream. Just like any other marketing video, live streams should decide if its goal is attracting an audience, engaging followers, nurturing leads, customer relations, or some combination of these. Live streams should also be interactive and give the audience a chance to connect and ask questions.

2. Rehearse, but don’t over do it.

In general, live stream audiences expect a more personal, authentic experience. You can have your key points for reference, but try not to read them like a script. Be your authentic self – just with a defined topic and some key talking points.

3. Control your environment as much as you can.

Whether you’re in the studio or on location at an event, try to ensure that you’re steaming in as controlled of an environment as possible. The last thing you want is for some random noises or other distraction to ruin your stream.

4. Be clear about your topic.

Make sure your headline and description accurately convey what the livestream is about. Live streams are often a bit of a roller coaster of viewership; some will come and stay from the start, others will join during the middle, watch for a while, and then drop out after a few minutes. Be clear on the topic so no one comes late and leaves early because they’re confused.  You could also publish a schedule/agenda for the stream.

5. Schedule and promote!

If no one knows about your live stream, did it even happen? There’s no need to “go live” if your audience doesn’t know to tune in. Promote and schedule your live streams so your audience can tune in to watch.  Your promotion approach should be similar to promoting an in person event.

6. Save and share.

Don’t let your streams disappear. There are multiple ways to save your streams, and most social platforms have built-in ways to help you share. They want people to watch just as much as you do, so don’t miss out on an opportunity to continue to get mileage out of your streams.

While live streaming can be pretty easy to set up on social media, if you’re thinking of streaming at a big convention or event and want professional,  affordable assistance, reach out to Max Lux Media today. Our team of video experts are happy to consult or provide coverage for events large or small.