Posted on 23, March, 2020
Last Modified on 23, March, 2020
How strong is your business’ social presence? If you’re looking to increase your brands following, engage your audience in real time or convert more social followers into long term customers, social media and live streaming has made all of that easier in a number of ways.
According to a survey from eMarketer, eight in 10 retail execs stated that they think utilizing live streaming apps at events helps to create more engagement with their audience. There are plenty of benefits to live streaming different kinds of events.
79% of those in the survey said that was the best benefit of live streaming events, 16% more than any other possible benefit presented. Other popular options highlighted in the eMarketer survey and piece include the added human element to marketing, video content that can be re-used and real-time feedback all got over 60% of the popular response.
There are different apps that have different benefits for live streaming capabilities.
Facebook has a live video option available. However, you will only be able to engage with those who like your page. But, if you have a strong connection with your audience on Facebook it’s a good platform to utilize.
Instagram Live has become a very popular live streaming option. It enables you to connect with your followers in real time, allowing them to leave comments on the video that you can read and respond to in your video. When you broadcast a live video stream, a ring highlights your profile picture to alert followers about your broadcast. Once the live stream is over, you can even re-share it in your stories for anyone who may have missed it.
Periscope, which is run by Twitter, is a leader in the clubhouse among live streaming apps. When setting up your live stream, Periscope allows you to set a description of what you’re going to be broadcasting. Periscope users can set up to be notified when an account they follow goes live or can be alerted when someone broadcasting something of their interest. Using good keywords for what you’ll be broadcasting has an effect on this and can help reach those who might be interested in what you’re broadcasting. It’s also connected to your Twitter, so it streamlines the promotion process of your video for you.
Ustream was one of the original platforms for social live video. Initially, it wasn’t optimized for mobile use but has improved and is still a solid option.
There are different demographics on each app, but there are plenty of options available to share live video.
What situations can you extend your reach by utilizing live video streaming?
Some companies or consumers don’t have the resources to send someone to every trade show, meaning there could be some portion of your intended audience not in attendance. A certain show could be something they are keeping an eye on from afar via social media. If they know you are going to live stream at some point from your booth or during interactions, you can reach them even if they cannot be there in person.
While you are live streaming at an exhibit, you’ll want to make sure you have someone who’s mobile and video savvy to man this situation while having someone on staff is attending to your in-person audience.
Product launches are also a great event to live stream video for the same reason. You can still reveal to your live audience but also those all over the world who are interested.
Hosting Q & A sessions is an extremely popular way to engage with your audience and social video sharing is a great way to broaden your audience. Apps like Periscope lets your audiences ask questions interactively with it. The app also tells you how many people are tuning in, giving you a better idea of your reach. Q & A’s are great ideas at trade shows, product launches and even grand openings to get your audience involved and live sharing of video furthers that possibility.
Don’t forget to shop our website for event backdrops and trade show displays so that your brand is featured prominently behind you during your live video stream and looks great!