Ever since the Pandemic, when live streaming was the only real option for businesses to host any kind of event, this form of media broadcasting has continued to grow and grow. From gamers to corporate leaders, everyone (no matter their demographics or industries) have started jumping on the live streaming bandwagon. But what’s driving this surge?
For starters, live streaming offers an authentic and engaging way to connect with audiences. It’s not, as many predicted, something that was only ever going to be prominent during a global lockdown, it’s actually transforming how we communicate. According to a recent study, the global video streaming market size was valued at $106.83 billion in 2023, and its value is expected to keep rising until 2028 at least!
Whilst some of this can be accredited to streaming platforms like Twitch, whose live stream creators are not primarily corporate, businesses are using live streaming on many other platforms to boost audience engagement and conversion rates.
Unlike pre-recorded videos, live streams allow real-time interaction, making viewers feel more connected and valued and actually leading to much higher levels of customer loyalty and trust. Also, when you compare live streaming with traditional TV advertising, the cost is of course much lower. Yet, the impact that a well planned and well executed live stream can have can be just as positive for a business as a prime time TV ads slot.
Why Should Businesses Use Live Streaming As Part Of Their Marketing?
As we’ve pointed out, and as is already clear to most, live streaming is not just a trend; it’s becoming a cornerstone of modern business marketing. Businesses across the globe are adopting live streaming for several compelling reasons.
Firstly, live streaming significantly boosts audience engagement. The real-time interaction it offers makes viewers feel valued, and this in turn makes them want to buy-into (or buy from) your business. According to HubSpot, 80% of people would rather watch live video from a brand than read a blog from a business, and it’s therefore no surprise that many businesses are choosing to listen to what their audiences want.
Another major advantage is cost-efficiency. Traditional marketing methods, such as TV advertisements, come with hefty price tags. On the other hand though, live streaming carries nowhere near the same price tag and yet it can be equally as effective, if not more so. Platforms like YouTube, Facebook Live, and LinkedIn Live provide free or low-cost options for broadcasting to large, often already engaged, audiences.
There’s also the global element to live streaming which opens up new doors for companies. Live streaming expands a business’ reach by breaking down geographical barriers and allowing companies to connect with audiences all over the world.
But, if a business is going to really maximise the impact that live streaming can have for them, then what are the key things they need to bear in mind? Read on for our top 19 tips when it comes to corporate live streaming.
19 Live Streaming Tips For Businesses
- Use a Dedicated Live Stream Agency or At Least Think Like A Producer
Hiring an experienced live stream production agency can be an absolute game-changer for your live stream. A producer handles all technical aspects, from managing the equipment to troubleshooting any issues that might arise on the fly. If however, hiring an external company isn’t within your budget, then you should at least adopt a producer’s mindset. Focus on the technical side of things so you can get your live stream just right.
- Don’t Neglect Your Planning
The same advice goes for nearly everything you’ll do professionally. It’s why we’re often all subjected to the nauseating phrase “Fail to prepare, then prepare to fail”. With a live stream, you’ll need to create a detailed outline of your broadcast, including key points and segments. Consider preparing a script or bullet points to stay on track. Planning also involves testing all your equipment beforehand and having a backup plan in case something goes wrong.
- Keep Things Simple
Trying to overcomplicate anything can all too often lead to a disaster and it’s not any different with live streaming. Simplicity is key! Too many complexities when it comes to your setup, with too many devices or software can lead to technical difficulties and distract you from delivering the quality content that your audience is after. Stick to the essentials: a good camera, reliable microphone, and stable internet connection.
- Focus On The Lighting
If your audience can’t see what’s going on clearly, then they’re probably not going to enjoy your live stream all that much. Good lighting is therefore pretty important for high-quality live streaming. Proper lighting ensures that your video is clear and professional-looking, and of course makes a significant difference in how your audience perceives your stream. Invest in basic lighting equipment like softbox lights or ring lights, and position them in a way that eliminates shadows and distributes light across your set as evenly as possible.
Use A Video Switcher
Use A Video SwitcherIn case you don’t know, a video switcher is essentially a device used to select and transition between different video sources in real-time. Using one can really improve your live stream’s production quality as it allows for seamless transitions between different angles. With this versatility you can keep your content dynamic, professional and captivating for your audience.
- Incorporate Music Into Your Live Stream
Adding background music to your live stream can make the live stream a lot more enjoyable, but only if you do it right! Music sets the tone and mood, which can keep your audience more relaxed or engaged depending on the style of your content. However, be mindful of music selection and licensing. Choose tracks that complement your content and ensure you have the right permissions to use them.
professional and captivating for your audience.
- Practice (As Much As Possible)
We keep busting out cliches in this article, but however cringey it may sound, “practice makes perfect” is still the truth! When it comes to live streaming, you should conduct rehearsals to familiarise yourself with the equipment and software, and to refine your content delivery. Practice helps identify potential issues and allows you to address them before going live and potentially jeopardising your own business’ live stream.
- Test Everything
Before you hit that ominous and daunting looking “Go Live” button, test all your equipment and software thoroughly. Check your internet connection, camera, microphone, and any other peripherals to make sure they’re functioning correctly. It’s naturally a good idea to run a test stream to check the audio and video quality, and make any necessary adjustments.
- Be Sure To Have Backup Plans In Place
When it comes to live streaming, always prepare for the unexpected. You’ll need to make sure that you have all of the backup equipment possible, such as an extra camera, microphone, and cables. Technical issues can arise at any moment when you’re running a live stream and that spare equipment can save you from an absolute disaster.
- Assign A Chat/Comments Moderator (if Necessary)
Social media comments sections can at times become devise and polarised. Now hopefully, your business and event will not be attracting these kinds of comments but nevertheless having a moderator is a good idea for managing any interactions your audience may have. It just means you can have the peace of mind that you’ve maintained your stream’s professionalism and kept the environment welcoming and respectful.
- Add Other Visual Elements
Graphics, overlays and other quick visual aids can really keep people engaged with your live stream. Things like branded logos, lower-thirds, and call-to-action graphics make your stream look professional and, crucially, keep your audience’s attention! They can also convey important information without interrupting the flow whatever it is that you happen to be presenting in your company’s live stream.
- Drive Engagement During The Live Stream
Getting your viewers to engage in real time is key to building a community around your live streams. Ask questions, prompt viewers to comment, and respond to their input in real-time. Interactive elements like polls, Q&A sessions, and live shoutouts make your audience feel valued and involved, which will always make them more likely to stay loyal to your business’ content than look at your competition.
- Choose The Right Live Streaming Software
Getting the right software in place in order to broadcast your live stream is paramount to its success. Different tools offer various features, so choose one that both matches your technical proficiency/ability and that also meets the needs of your business’ live stream. Whichever one you go with, just be sure it’s one that will support instead of hindering you.
- Elevate On-Camera Presence
The on-camera presence of all involved is what will keep the majority of your viewers engaged. Those on camera demonstrating qualities like confidence and professionalism can significantly improve viewer retention. Practise speaking clearly and naturally, maintain good posture, and make eye contact with the camera. Use gestures to emphasise points but avoid overdoing it.
- Manage The Guest(s) Well
If it is going to be the case that your live stream includes guests, proper management is key. Prepare your guests by providing them with the necessary equipment and guidelines. Conduct a technical check with them beforehand to ensure their audio and video quality are up to par. Brief them on the stream’s format and content to ensure a smooth and coordinated broadcast.
- Use Attention Grabbing Thumbnails & Titles
First impressions really do matter! You can crank up those viewing figures just that little bit higher when you create eye-catching thumbnails and compelling titles for your live streams to attract viewers. Of course, these thumbnails should be visually appealing and relevant to the content, while titles should be clear, descriptive, and intriguing. A good thumbnail and title combo really can make a whole lot of a difference.
- Have A Backchannel For Communication
During a live stream, having a separate communication channel for your team is essential. It can be any reliable comms platform like Slack, WhatsApp, or a private chat in your streaming software (if it has one) to coordinate behind the scenes. This way you’ll be able to address any issues and make any adjustments quickly and subtly.
- Use Multiple Streaming Platforms For Distribution
If you’re going to really maximise your live stream’s reach then it’s obviously going to be important to get it out there in as many places as possible. Simultaneously using platforms like Restream can help you broadcast across various platforms seamlessly, expanding your audience base exponentially.
- Monitor Your Analytics Post-Stream
After your stream, analyse viewer data to understand what worked and what didn’t. Look at metrics like viewer count, engagement rate, and audience retention. This information helps you refine your future streams and tailor your content to better suit your audience’s preferences, ultimately improving your live streaming strategy.
Get Corporate Live Streaming Right With Astor
With live streaming’s many benefits, comes the many opportunities that businesses can tap into – but only if they get it right! We hope that the live streaming tips we’ve shared here can be a guide for you on how to make a good live stream. But, truth be told, if you want to eliminate the chances of failure completely, then this is where Astor can help most.
We have extensive experience in live streaming, and events that we’ve managed have been broadcast to countless numbers of people worldwide. Our team manages all aspects of your live stream, including visuals, audio, sound, and broadcasting. The Astor experts can make sure everything about your live stream runs smoothly and professionally, and ultimately, gives your audience the best possible experience.
So, are you ready to really charge up your live streaming game? Contact the team at Astor today to learn how we can help you get the best corporate live streaming today!