Why Video Cuts Through the Noise
In an inbox full of text, a video stands out. Personalised video messages get significantly higher open and response rates than text emails because they feel more human, more effort intensive, and harder to ignore. The medium itself signals that you care enough to do something different.
When to Use Video
Video prospecting works best for high value prospects where the extra effort is justified. If you are sending 200 generic outreach emails a day, video does not scale. But for your top 20 target prospects, a personalised 60 second video can be the thing that earns you a meeting when emails have failed.
Keep It Short
Under 90 seconds is ideal. Under 60 seconds is even better. State who you are, why you are reaching out, and what you would like to discuss. That is it. Long videos get abandoned. Short videos get watched completely and responded to.
Personalise Visibly
Show something on your screen or whiteboard that is specific to the recipient. Their website, their LinkedIn profile, or a relevant piece of their content. This immediately proves the video was made for them and is not a mass recording with their name pasted on.
Tools for Video Prospecting
Loom, Vidyard, and BombBomb are popular options. They allow you to record your screen and camera simultaneously, embed videos in emails, and track whether the recipient watched. The tracking feature is particularly valuable because it tells you who is engaged even if they have not responded yet.
Common Mistakes
Recording in a noisy or messy environment. Not looking at the camera. Rambling past the one minute mark. Using a generic script that could apply to anyone. Not including a clear call to action. These mistakes undermine the personal touch that makes video prospecting effective.
Integrating Video into Your Workflow
You do not need to replace your entire outreach strategy with video. Use video for your highest priority prospects, for re engaging prospects who have gone quiet, or as a follow up after an important meeting. Mix video into your multi channel approach rather than making it your only channel.
The Comfort Factor
If you are uncomfortable on camera, practice. Record yourself ten times and delete them all. You will get better quickly. Most agents find that after the initial awkwardness passes, video prospecting becomes one of their most enjoyable and effective outreach methods.