I’m a vocal proponent of using live video content to connect with your audience. I believe that live video isn’t optional for communicators who want to grow their platforms, get booked and publish books.

I know it can be intimidating to go live. Many savvy communicators worry about what to say and whether anyone will even pay attention. You worry whether you’re saying the right thing on the right channel. It feels like you’re at war with an invisible enemy, and you never quite understand whether you’re winning or losing. But live video isn’t the enemy. It’s your greatest ally.

Live Video Content Connects

When you create live video, you connect with your audience on a level that’s just as deep as if you were right there with them in person. Done well, live video is almost magical in how it develops and strengthens relationships online.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Live videos get 10 times more comments from viewers than other types of posts.
• Every social media channel that offers live video prioritizes it over other types of content.
• Audiences watch live video three times longer than pre-recorded video content.

I went live on Facebook for 12 days in a row and tracked my results. I know this works. But if Facebook isn’t your thing, you still have options. You can broadcast live Instagram, Twitter and YouTube. And though there are slight differences among each channel, a savvy communicator follows these three universal steps:

1. Present a distraction-free viewing experience
2. Create content that connects
3. Suit up and show up – again and again

Want to know more? Visit the Communicator Academy blog, where I unpack how I use live video step-by-step. If I can do it, so can you. All you need are the right resources and support.

Tonya Kubo helps communicators build close, connected relationships online by leveraging the power of social media.Tonya’s goal is to make social media less overwhelming and more sustainable for communicators at every level. She manages online communities, book teams and offers coaching/consulting services. Subscribers receive a FREE download on top-performing live vide topics to improve their audience engagement immediately.