Curious Dog Media

03/12/2021

From my experience, sometimes a helping hand is all you need to get started on learning something new.

Thank you to Nutritional Coach Jane Webber Nutrition for taking the time to share her thoughts on my short video lesson on the '9 Ways to Use Video in LinkedIn'.

I completely understand that being visible on video can feel daunting; and in the same way as I know Jane will advocate that good nutrition and eating requires some commitment and habit (as well as perhaps showing up in a new way that does feel a little uncomfortable at first) so does making videos.

If you need a helping hand to get started, I'm your girl!

Stepping out of your comfort zone often starts with a helping hand, and I've supported many women in business transform from camera shy to becoming confident enough on camera and share their expertise with the world on video. So I know I can help you too.

And if you're looking for ideas of what type of videos you can create on LinkedIn that will get you noticed (as well as what good nutritional habits you can incorporate into your life!) then listen to Jane!

02/12/2021

Video watch times are getting shorter.

This means our videos and our messaging needs to be shorter too.

If your business is on LinkedIn and you want to know what video content works on LinkedIn, enroll in my short video lesson and discover '9 Ways to Use Video on LinkedIn'

✅ £7
✅ 9 Ways to use video

Here’s the link to buy:
https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/using-video-on-linkedin/

23/11/2021

Can you spot my little curious dog in this picture?

No..?

It’s not surprising, because she’s not doing much to help herself stand out! 😬

With more ‘noise’ than ever competing for our attention, how do you stand out from the crowd?

The answer could be: USE VIDEO.

A 2021 Wyzowl report suggests that 85% of people would like to see more video from brands, and the science bears out WHY our brains are hard wired to watch visual content:

Scientists say our brains process visuals almost 60,000 times faster than text. This makes sense as to why video has become a major part of marketing strategies over the past few years.

According to researchers, the average viewer remembers 95 percent of a message when it is watched; compared to 10 percent of text-based messages. About 90 percent of the information our brains process is visual. That’s powerful stuff!

With all that in mind, it’s easy to see how using video content in your marketing strategy will help you stand out and be more visible.

If you’re ready to master the art of video creation, but not sure how to get started, let me help.

My online video creation course ‘From Scared to Shared’ will take you through every step you need to make your business videos, and by the end of the Course you’ll know:

✅ How to avoid the biggest video mistakes most women make
✅ The 'must have' pro video touches to include in your content
✅ The basic kit you will need to create videos from home

Make video your best marketing friend and take advantage of my Black Friday promo offer:
👉🏼 Use the coupon code BFFVIDEO at the checkout to get £50 off the usual Course price.

That’s whole lotta video creation knowledge for just £77. 😁

Here's your link to buy:
https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared
A 2021 Wyzowl report suggests that 85% of people would like to see more video from brands, and the science bears out WHY our brains are hard-wired to watch visual content:
ps. Our little curious dog…look bottom left quarter of the picture. She's easy to find when you know where to look, isn't she? 😉

17/11/2021

Are you confident you know how to structure, script and plan your video? 🤔

Many of the worries that I hear about making business videos are around this area of creation. But with the right planning and know-how, I guarantee you'll set yourself up for success. 🤗

My top tips:
✅ Script every word you want to say
✅ Keep it brief!
✅ Choose just ONE message / call to action

Most people I see on video tend to talk too much.

Whilst it’s tempting to want to tell everyone everything that you do, or can do, or offer, or want to offer...too many words or points can make your video confusing for your audience, and when we are unsure what to do...guess what...?
..We do nothing! 🙄

And that means your video is a waste of your time.

If you want to learn how to plan, script AND record your video, my online video creation course 'From Scared to Shared' is for you.

I've dedicated a whole section of the course to this important area of video creation and by applying my easy-to-follow steps, I guarantee you'll feel much more confident about what to say in your videos.

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

09/11/2021

Are you on LinkedIn?

A recent in-depth report* analysed what’s working on the LinkedIn algorithm and highlighted changes in video performance on the platform compared to a year ago.

For me, one of the most interesting observations was this:

“Average length of all videos posted to LinkedIn just above 1 minute
However... 60% of the videos are less than 1 minute”

▶️ Video watch times are getting shorter.
▶️ This means our videos need to be shorter too.

If you are wondering how to get the best out of the LinkedIn algorithm for your business, I’d recommend these 3 things as key to building your relationships and engagement on LinkedIn:

✅ Be consistent with your content (Remember: quality over quantity)
✅ Engage with other people's content (Remember: It's not all about you!)
✅ It's a platform for professionals (Remember: it's not Facebook!)

And if you want to know what video content works on LinkedIn, enroll in my short video lesson and discover '9 Ways to Use Video on LinkedIn'
https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/using-video-on-linkedin/

*Richard van der Blom of Just Connecting

LinkedIn is a platform for professionals and businesses - so it's important to make your video content reflect your business.

08/11/2021

Some fireworks fun for you folks! 💥⚡️💫

Remember, remember the key to November
Is your video marketing clout...
Now more than ever
It’s time to be clever
And don’t leave those videos out!

Don’t let your videos fizzle out this November. 🔥

Learn how to create them from the comfort of home
https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

30/10/2021

Happy Halloween everyone, from our very own little Curious Dog. 🎃🎃

29/10/2021

It’s Halloween weekend - scary stuff!
But what are you REALLY afraid of? 👻

Apparently, arachnophobia affects up to 6% of the population and there are many reasons and theories about why so many people are afraid of spiders. 🕷🕷

Some say it's a learned response through family or culture; other research suggests that it's possible that someone's brain chemistry may pre-dispose them to arachnophobia.

Scopophobia is a fear of any sort of visual attention, such as being looked at, filmed or photographed or drawing attention to yourself, and although the phobia itself only affects a small percentage of the population it is nevertheless prevalent enough to stop many women from showing up on camera and being seen.

My posted picture is intended to be some seasonal fun, but in no way am I underestimating the limitations that being fearful of being seen on camera has for women who want and need to be visible in their business. And whilst I can’t help the arachnophobes amongst you, I can help you if your fear is being seen on video.

I’ve helped many women overcome their camera fears and build their camera confidence. The biggest single piece of advice I give is plan, plan and plan some more! When we know what’s going to happen and what to expect, we can start to overcome our fears and the debilitating hold it can have in stopping us taking action.

So if you want to be visible on video but are feeling the fear of getting started, book a Curiosity Call with me. We’ll shake off the heebie-geebies together and plan your next video move.

DM me for details.

20/10/2021

I’ll say it before and I’ll say it again...you do NOT need loads of expensive kit to record your business videos.

Choosing the kit you DO need can become overwhelming as there is so much choice out there, and as the tech evolves it can be even more difficult to decide what will really make the difference.

And when we have too much choice, generally we don’t take action at all! 😱

The good news is:

✅ It’s now pretty affordable for most businesses to get the basic kit which will make a difference

✅ It’s become much easier to create a ‘studio from home’ for a more professional set-up

✅ With just a few key pieces of equipment (that don’t need to break the bank) you really can get started

The key items I always recommend for you to consider investing in are:

1. A tripod
2. A lighting
3. A microphone

And to make it EVEN easier, I’ve put together a FREE e-book ‘Video Kit List Essentials’ for you where I share details and links to the kit that I have personally used and can recommend, as well as a few extras that my Curious Dog techie team recommend.

I’ve deliberately kept it simple so that you can make a decision quickly as to the kit you want to invest in and get started making your videos.

You can get your Video Kit List Essentials here:

https://curiousdog.media/video-kit-list/

Ready to record on your business videos but not sure what kit you actually need? Get your FREE Video Kit List Essentials and start making business videos today without spending more than you need to. Don’t make unnecessary and expensive kit purchases to create your video content. Download Video Ki...

19/10/2021

Does this surprise you...?

Research has shown that if the sound quality of your video is bad, people get fed up and will stop listening altogether. 😱

Perhaps it sounds counter-intuitive given that video is a visual medium. But it seems to be a matter of fact that poor audio is a turn-off for watchers.

If you are recording a video of yourself, you can improve the quality of your audio with a simple lapel mic like this one.

It clips easily onto your collar and connects directly to your smartphone (where you can record from).

My top tips for using a mic like this one:

✅ Feed the wire under your top to avoid it dangling across your clothing and being distracting to viewers

✅ Position it about 20- 30 cms from your mouth

✅ Don't wear 'noisy' clothing which might rustle and interfere with the mic.

Making videos for your business does NOT need a big budget, but a small investment in a bit of kit like this can make a BIG difference to the quality of your video audio. So it can really be worth it if you are recording face to camera videos for your business.

You can learn more about the video kit you need and HOW TO create your own videos from home with my online video creation course 'From Scared to Shared'

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

14/10/2021

Which of these backgrounds do you think looks best? 🤔
And does it really matter??

Looking your best on camera by choosing the right backdrop to your video or your Zoom may sound like a bit of a luxury with so many of us working and filming from home, but I discovered that there are some essential steps we can control to look and feel our best on camera. 🤗

Personal Stylist, Asha, helped me out.

We recorded an exclusive training session on the revolutionary power of colour and how we can use it to our advantage, both personally and in business.

Asha talked me through:
✅ which backgrounds work best to create the right impression
✅ the right colours to wear to shine
✅ why knowing our skin tone is so important for us to look our best

You too can find out how to show up, shine and look your best on your business videos in my online video creation Course 'From Scared to Shared'. Let Asha and me talk you through what works - and what doesn’t!

What kind of background to you use when you're on camera?

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

08/10/2021

This month something scary happens...

(no, I’m not talking about making business videos - we’ll talk about that later!)

It’s Halloween of course…! 👻 And that means a great opportunity for you to introduce some themed fun to increase your brand awareness and boost your sales with some Halloween styled offers and promotions.

If you’re wondering how you can introduce the Halloween factor into your video content and boost your sales this October FEAR NOT, here are a couple of spooky ideas to get you started…

👻 Halloween ‘Special Offer’ video
If you’re planning to make a special Halloween offer for your customers, don’t hesitate to promote it with a video - we all know we love to watch!

🎃Halloween-themed branded marketing videos
One of the best ways to keep your audience watching is by showcasing your brand - theme your videos Halloween style and don’t be afraid to have some fun along the way, we all love to be entertained!

Too busy to think about it, but worried you’re missing out on the opportunity?
FEAR NOT!
This month Curious Dog Media is offering a 'done for you' social media video content package this month with 6 done for you video posts.

It’s Halloween of course…! 👻 And that means a great opportunity for you to introduce some themed fun to increase your brand awareness and boost your sales with some Halloween-styled offers and promotions.

DM me for details and to secure your spot.

https://curiousdog.media/

07/10/2021

As Autumn sets in in the UK, the sun is lower and on a bright day this can create drastic shadows on our faces - not a problem if you're sitting and soaking up the rays! 😎
..But if you are planning your video content, you need to be aware of the shadows being cast on your face as they can be very distracting for your audience, as well as you!

Lighting is key, and there are ways in which you can balance out the shadows if you are recording in natural daylight.

Don't be overshadowed!
Get the know-how you need to look great on camera and find out more about this important aspect of video creation here:

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

06/10/2021

Video is a powerful way to build up that all-important ‘know like and trust’ factor required before someone feels confident to buy from us.

If your business is also using LinkedIn to connect with your ideal customers you may be wondering what kind of video content works on LinkedIn to promote your business and sell your service. It can be a it of a minefield.

To help you create the right kind of video content, I have made a short video tutorial for you: ‘
9 Ways to Use Video on LinkedIn’. 🎬

You have to buy it (there’s my offer to you, right there!🤗) but it’s just £7 so I’m pretty confident that if you apply even just one of the ideas I share, this will be a great investment for your business!

Here’s the link to buy: https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/using-video-on-linkedin/

Happy watching! 🤗

LinkedIn is a platform for professionals and businesses - so it's important to make your video content reflect your business.

29/09/2021

Do you prefer working 1-2-1 with an expert to get something done in your business?

Or are you a self-learner who is happy to learn and progress at her own pace, on her own schedule and in her own way?

Of course, there’s no right or wrong. We’re all different.

Me: I love learning new skills and I’m an independent learner.

I don’t need to be part of a group to take action and be accountable but when I know I'm stuck and I DO need help, I seek out an expert to help me move forwards and do what needs to be done to get results I want.

What about you? Are you a self-learner, or do you work best as part of a group?

If you are looking to upskill in the video creation department but aren’t sure what to do next to make those videos a reality, then join me for a friendly Curiosity Call.

Together we can work what we need to do to help you to get those business videos:

✅ RECORDED
✅ OUT THERE
✅ BEING SEEN

Book your Curiosity Call with me here: https://calendly.com/curiousdogmedia/curiositycall

24/09/2021

It’s my birthday this weekend and I’d love you to celebrate with me with a virtual cocktail...! 🥂

I took this short video clip at a previous birthday celebration, where the fabulous Simon from Shaker and Company bar in London concocted a ‘birthday special’ for me.

It felt like a real treat to have something made just for me.

The video was a lovely reminder of a fantastically fun evening.
Videos can do that!

I spend a lot of time helping women create videos for business and their marketing, but this is a little reminder that your smart phone can also be used to create personal memories and bring a lot of joy in watching back and remembering fun times.

I’m taking a long weekend and enjoying some time with friends and family with maybe a cocktail or two in the mix.😉

Whatever you are up to this weekend - CHEERS!

Enjoy life and make some memories. 🥂

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

22/09/2021

Mistakes happen!

We all fluff our words.
Stutter.
Stammer.
Forget what we're supposed to say.
Get flustered.

The beauty of creating video content for your business is that you CAN edit out the bad bits! 😁

The BIGGEST mistake you can make...is not giving it a go at all, and missing out on using this hugely powerful way of communicating with your audience and letting them get to know you better.

If you're not sure how to get started, I can help.

My online video creation Course 'From Scared to Shared' is for women in business who want the know-how on confidently creating video content in simple, easy to follow video lessons (from ME! 🤗).

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

21/09/2021

Do you want your business to be seen on LinkedIn?

Like Facebook, video posts are considered highly on LinkedIn’s algorithm.

Because of this, if you create video content about your business and post it on LinkedIn you’re in with a good chance of your video reaching the top of a person’s LinkedIn feed.

Many women tell me that they feel uncertain and overwhelmed with their options of what to talk about, what kind of videos to post, and what’s appropriate for LinkedIn - particularly given that it’s a 'platform for professionals'.

So what video content CAN you post on LinkedIn?

I’ve put together '9 Ways To Use Video on LinkedIn'.

This bite-sized video lesson will give you ideas on ways you can talk about your business and use the power of video to reach the top of your ideal client’s LinkedIn feed.

Check it out here:
https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/using-video-on-linkedin/

19/09/2021

🐢You can tell if a tortoise is excited by the speed of its movements
🐢Tortoises are usually herbivorous and can't swim
🐢Tortoises can live anywhere from 50 to 100 years

This is all very well, but what’s this got to do with video creation for your business I hear you ask?!

The answer: because most of us can’t resist easy to digest stats and facts, so including them in your video can be a great way to engage your video viewer and grab their attention in that all-important first few seconds.

Tell people something about your area of expertise or industry that might surprise, delight or even shock them, and then tell them why that’s relevant to them.

What’s your favourite statistic or fact relating to your business?

Here’s one of mine:
✅ 79% of consumers would rather watch a video to learn about a product, than read text on a page 😱

So if video content is not already part of your marketing strategy, you’re leaving your audience wanting.

If you're stuck for ideas on what to do for your video marketing strategy, or what facts or stats to talk about - DM me and let’s book that call.

PS. Listen to this video clip with the sounds ON if you can, it has a great (unedited) soundtrack!



https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

06/09/2021

06/08/2021

Myth: You need a fancy pants studio to record videos 😱
Reality: I’m living proof that you don’t! 🤗

My online video creation Course ‘From Scared to Shared’ was all filmed from home in the room you can see in this photo. Take a look! It doubles up as a home office by day and a games room with a pool table and a sofa by night. 😁

The key basic elements I recommend adding to create your 'home studio':
1. Additional lighting
2. A microphone

So whether you're a digital course creator or a female business owner that wants to get started on your video creation I’ll take you step by step through:
✅ what kit you need to buy
✅ who to create your videos for
✅ how to create your videos from home..And so much more.

Click to find out HOW TO CREATE YOUR BUSINESS VIDEOS FROM HOME THIS SUMMER:
https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

29/07/2021

This was the last picture I took with my mum in person before the pandemic struck.

It was taken at The Kent Women In Business Awards 2020, which seems a lifetime ago now. The other person in the pic is my wonderful partner, Anna.

Mum lives on the beautiful Channel Island of Alderney, a jewel of an island with only 2000 residents and the most gorgeous beaches. No crime. No traffic. And everything still shuts for lunch!

She's not been able to travel over to see us since Friday 13 March 2000. She was due to come and stay for the first time since then two weeks ago...but then we all got Covid and the trip had to be cancelled AGAIN! 😫

BUT TODAY...she flies into Southampton Airport (a direct 45 min flight from Alderney) at lunchtime!! So I'll be taking some time off work and video creation and away from my laptop to pick her up and spend family time.

The pandemic has hit so many so hard in so many ways, and relishing the joys of simple family reunion is one I will savour. I'm grateful I have a business which means I can choose to take time off when I need to.

Enjoying those moments is what makes life special. 😊

20/07/2021

I did not want to record this video!! 😱

I spend a lot of time encouraging women to make videos for their business so that statement might surprise you.

The reality is I know and understand how you feel when you say to me "I know I should make videos, but..this but that ...but the other."

Here's the thing...there are always a bunch of reasons not to do something, but sometimes you just need to push on through all those reasons stopping you, all that head-talk telling you not to do something, and JUST DO IT - because that's where the growth happens and the magic happens.

And when you've done it once, the second time gets easier, then the third time...and then you realise you've overcome those resistances.
And that right there is progress - which is what we are all looking for in our businesses. 👏🏼👏🏼

What will you do today that pushes you through your comfort zone?

For help making your business videos click here: https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

15/07/2021

Do you get bored easily? 🥱

Research shows that we all do!

Our attention spans have dropped now to about 8 seconds.

What this means for your videos is: KEEP THEM SHORT!

The length of videos for the various social media platforms changes, so make sure you check that out before you post your video content.

For FaceBook, the optimum video length recommended is 2 mins.

If you have more to talk about in your videos, I’d recommend chunk down your content into shorter ‘bite-sized’ videos and let your audience know there is more for them to watch in your other video/s.

Q: Want to learn more about creating video content that will keep your audience watching?

A: You’ll find what you need to know in my online, learn from home, video creation course ‘From Scared to Shared’:

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

09/07/2021

Don’t be a Sybil Sausage and hide away!

It’s time to shine in your video marketing, ladies, and if you haven’t already had a peek at my e-book highlighting the mistakes most people make when they create their videos…WHY NOT?!

‘Avoid the 3 Big Mistakes Most People Make When Creating Videos’.
It’s free to download, and just a few simple points to action if you are creating video content for your business.

So even if you’re planning some well earned down time today ahead of the weekend it’s going to be worth 3 minutes of your time. I promise!

Click to get your copy:
https://curiousdog.media/avoid-the-3-big-mistakes-most-people-make-when-creating-videos-lp/

07/07/2021

I’ve worked with lighting engineers who specialise in recreating the perfect lighting conditions for filming. BUT YOU DON’T HAVE TO!
In fact, you’re unlikely to be able to achieve that.

Few of us have the luxury of a home studio for our video creation - but the good news is you don’t need one! And getting the perfect lighting set up doesn’t need to stop you either. A few easy tweaks to your environment and you’ll be able to film videos from home and create video content that will get eyes on YOUR business.

If you’re ready to get started on your videos, or you want to take your filming to the next level, my online video creation course ‘From Scared to Shared’ will guide you through what you need to know.

I cut straight to the point of what you need to do to be successful on camera and how you need to do it. This includes;

✅ Where you can use video in your business - What works and what doesn’t
✅ How to easily decide who your video is for and what it’s about
✅ How to structure, script and plan your video message
✅ The basic (inexpensive) kit you’ll need and how to use it
✅ What to wear to look your best and which background to choose
✅ How to record your videos - The dos and don’ts
✅ Where to share your videos on social media and beyond
✅ How to edit your own videos with professional touches
✅ How to save precious time recording your videos

Learn how to create business videos today:
Few of us have the luxury of a home studio for our video creation - but the good news is you don’t need one! And getting the perfect lighting set up doesn’t need to stop you either. A few easy tweaks to your environment and you’ll be able to film videos from home and create video content that will get eyes on YOUR business.

05/07/2021

I’ll keep it short
I'll keep it sweet
If it’s video nasties you want to beat 😱
Download my e-book; don’t make mistakes 😳
Avoid time spent on edits and re-takes. 🎬

I've created a short e-book to help you dodge the mistakes that most people make when they create video content. Download your free e-book 👇🏻
https://curiousdog.media/avoid-the-3-big-mistakes-most-people-make-when-creating-videos-lp/

30/06/2021

Are you an ambitious woman looking to reach more people and gain even more clients?

Join the swell of talented business women learning the skill of video creation to promote their business. It's one seriously valuable tool in your box of business skills.

In just a few hours, I will show you step by step:
1. how to build your confidence on camera
2. the skills needed to harness the power of video for your business.
3. what kit to buy to get started

I’ll guide you through everything you need to know to make professional looking business videos, all in your own time and from the comfort of your own home.
Online Course price just £127 click on the link below to buy now 👇

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

29/06/2021

How important is background when it comes to creating videos?

The answer is...VERY!

Whilst we may not always have the option of choosing the perfect background for our videos or video conference calls, there are still some essential steps we can control to look and feel our best on camera.

To make sure I was in the know, I teamed up over Zoom with experienced Personal Stylist Asha Shah of Distinct Styling, who talked me through:
✅ which backgrounds work best
✅ the right colours to wear
✅ why knowing our skin tone is so important to looking our best

There was one accessory that Asha recommended above all others to creating the best impression we can on our videos.

Can you guess what it is? (BIG clue: it’s something every single one of us owns) 😁

To find out how to show up and shine on your business videos, click on the link in the comments and let Asha and I talk you through what works and what doesn’t.

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

28/06/2021

"Do you ever get confused about whether it's better to record your videos in 'portrait' or 'landscape' mode? 🤔

In this short video, I'll explain which option is best, and the key question you need to ask yourself before you film.

For more step-by-step guidance on how to record your business videos, check out my new online video creation course for women in business 'From Scared to Shared'.

https://curious-dog-media-s-school.teachable.com/p/from-scared-to-shared

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