If you have been on the internet at all over the past year, you likely know that live streaming is all the rage! From live newscasts in your Facebook feed to controversial court cases stemming from live Facebook video, it has been hard to miss the rise of live streaming. The question is, how can you as a marketer take advantage of this trend? The answer is simple: Facebook Live.
What is Facebook Live?
Facebook Live is a feature on Facebook which allows people, public figures, and company pages to share live video with their followers. This feature is available to all pages and profiles on Facebook for iOS and Android, as well as the Facebook Creator app. According to Facebook, "Live is the best way to interact with viewers in real time. Field their burning questions, hear what's on their mind and check out their Live Reactions to gauge how your broadcast is going."
Steps to Starting a Facebook Live Broadcast
If you're ready to go live with your first Facebook broadcast, follow these simple steps:
1. Tap "What's on your mind" at the top of your News Feed
2. Select "Live Video" from the dropdown menu
3. Add an attention-grabbing description and choose your audience
4. Hit "Go Live"
You will know that you are live by the red icon at the top left-hand corner of the video. The word “Live” is also written next to the icon, along with the number of current viewers.
Ideas for Your Next Facebook Live
Coming up with an interesting, unique and engaging idea for a Facebook Live video is half the challenge. Below are a few ideas for how your business can use Facebook Live.
Breaking News
The best part about Facebook Live is fairly obvious: it's live! That makes it the perfect platform for sharing breaking news. If you have a major announcement or want to stream a live event, Facebook Live is the place to do it. You will find that important updates from celebrities and breaking news stories from TV news outlets are among the most popular types of Facebook Live content.
Product Demo
Do you have a new product or service you want to introduce to your followers and fans? Facebook Live allows you to demonstrate your product in real-time. Show your users how it works and answer their questions as they roll in. Just be prepared for the common pitfalls that can occur with any live demonstration (i.e. product malfunctions, technical difficulties, unforeseen questions).
Behind the Scenes
Take your followers "behind the scenes" with Facebook Live. This concept gives your fans unique insight into what you do and makes them feel like "insiders." Whether you want to show them your office, factory or corporate culture, Facebook Live can help you execute.
Q&A
Facebook Live is perfect for question and answer sessions because it lends itself to real-time engagement. Viewers will be able to post their questions in the comments section of your video and you will be able to answer those questions live. Your followers will love the immediacy of the interaction and you will love the engagement!
If you're ready to start using Facebook Live, but need assistance setting it up, developing a strategy, or shooting the video, contact Informatics Inc.
