How to Design a Website that Converts with Greg Merrilees

Summary:In this episode of the Engage Video Marketing Podcast, we dive into the intriguing world of AI in video marketing. Host Ben Amos welcomes back Ian Anderson Gray, founder of Confident Live Marketing Academy and Seriously Social, to explore the balance between leveraging AI tools and maintaining the crucial humanness and authenticity that drive effective video marketing.Ian shares his insights on how AI can revolutionise video strategies without compromising the genuine connection with audiences. Reflecting back on his previous appearance in Episode 67, where they discussed the power of live video, Ian now brings fresh perspectives on integrating AI while staying true to the core principles of authentic engagement.Chapters:[00:01:25] Staying human with AI[00:04:20] Navigating AI's potential and drawbacks.[00:08:00] Democratising content creation.[00:12:11] AI girlfriends and humanity[00:17:16] Ethical stance on AI[00:22:19] Functional vs. Personal Content[00:23:03] Experimenting with 11 Labs[00:27:30] Using AI in content creation.[00:33:08] Prompt engineering[00:35:37] Confident Live Marketing PodcastLinks from the show:Ian Anderson Gray websiteIan Anderson Gray podcast Ian on LinkedIn Ian on X Ian on IG Ian on YouTube If you found this episode of value I’d love for you to reach out and let me know on Instagram @engage_ben or email [email protected] Amos LinkedInBen Amos InstagramBen Amos TwitterRate the Engage Video Marketing Podcast on iTunes

Summary:In this episode of the Engage Video Marketing Podcast, we delve into the world of User-Generated Content (UGC) and its growing importance in video marketing strategies. Our guest, Melissa Laurie, founder of Oysterly—a leading social video agency—shares her expertise in creating impactful UGC for renowned brands like UPS, 3M, RMIT University, and Luxury Escapes.Melissa, recognized as a woman to watch in Asia and shortlisted for the Women Leading Tech Awards by Atlassian, discusses how her agency specialises in generating social videos that can be effectively reposted across all major social platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. She emphasises how this multi-platform approach maximises reach and engagement for brands.Chapters:[00:00:21] User Generated Content[00:04:25] Creating Oysterly Social Video Agency[00:08:52] Owned user-generated content.[00:14:01] Texture of social channels.[00:15:43] Control of brand visual style[00:19:42] Finding UGC creators[00:25:05] Compensation for creators[00:27:31] Paid endorsements disclosure.[00:31:27] Changing video hooks for impact.[00:35:35] Microsoft Education on TikTok[00:39:04] AI-generated avatars in UGC[00:43:29] What's next in social video?[00:47:05] Embrace UGC for businessIf you found this episode of value I’d love for you to reach out and let me know on Instagram @engage_ben or email [email protected] Amos LinkedInBen Amos InstagramBen Amos TwitterRate the Engage Video Marketing Podcast on iTunes

Summary:In this episode of the Engage Video Marketing Podcast, we delve into the ever-changing world of social media and digital marketing. Our guest, Meg Coffey, an internationally recognised strategist based in Australia, shares insights on staying ahead of the curve. Meg's expertise and dedication shine through as she discusses her role in organising Australia's largest social media conference, helping businesses navigate the digital landscape of 2024 and beyond. Join us as we explore the importance of adapting to the dynamic realm of social media marketing.Chapters:[00:02:22] Meg's journey to Australia.[00:06:39] Tourism and hospitality experiences.[00:08:26] Rise of keyboard warriors.[00:11:53] Audience segmentation on social media.[00:15:19] Building Your Business Online[00:20:24] Social media evolving for businesses.[00:24:17] Niche content marketing strategies.[00:26:36] Shiny object syndrome[00:29:03] Focus on strategy first.Ben Amos LinkedInBen Amos InstagramBen Amos TwitterRate the Engage Video Marketing Podcast on iTunes

Summary:In this milestone 300th episode of the Engage Video Marketing Podcast, we delve into the critical topic of website effectiveness. Our host, along with a special guest who has expertly designed the Engage Video Marketing website, will explore best practices for creating websites that not only catch the eye but also drive conversions. The discussion will highlight the common pitfalls in website design, such as blindly imitating competitors, and emphasise the importance of having a distinct brand identity and clear messaging that sets you apart in the market. Tune in to gain valuable insights on making your website a powerful tool for engaging customers and driving your business forward.Chapters:[00:01:02] Website conversion best practices.[00:04:12] Pivoting to web design.[00:08:03] Web design for video strategy.[00:11:33] Psychological influence strategies.[00:13:34] Spin selling framework.[00:17:56] Conversion killing design trends.[00:20:42] Video placement best practices.[00:23:47] Thank you page videos.[00:29:01] Video hosting platform recommendations.[00:31:02] Design and business tools.[00:34:11] Impact of a bad website.[00:37:06] Choosing a web design company.[00:40:00] Social media marketing challenges.If you found this episode of value I’d love for you to reach out and let me know on Instagram @engage_ben or email [email protected] Amos LinkedInBen Amos InstagramBen Amos TwitterRate the Engage Video Marketing Podcast on iTunes

SummaryIn this episode, Jera Bean, a social media coach and educator, shares insights into video strategy and the importance of short-form video in 2024. She emphasises the need for a strong foundation in strategy and the connection between content pillars and video formats. Jera also addresses the fear of being on camera and provides tips for overcoming it. She introduces the concept of secret sauce in content and explains how it can help businesses connect with their audience. Jera encourages taking messy action and offers guidance on getting started with short-form video.TakeawaysVideo strategy is the foundation of a successful social media presence. It involves understanding your goals, target audience, and the content pillars that align with your brand.Short-form video, such as Reels and TikToks, is a powerful tool for businesses in 2024. It allows for authentic communication, longer shelf life, and increased visibility on social media platforms.Transitioning from long-form to short-form video requires identifying smaller ideas within longer content and repurposing them for short-form platforms.Showing up authentically on social media involves sharing content in the four quadrants of secret sauce: foundational, personal, professional, and lighthearted.Taking messy action and starting with simple content ideas is key to getting started with short-form video. It's important to iterate and improve over time.Chapters00:00 - Introduction and Background02:20 - Understanding Video Strategy05:13 - Short-Form Video Strategy07:24 - Aligning Format with Strategy09:46 - The Importance of Short-Form Video12:09 - Transitioning from Long-Form to Short-Form Video16:21 - Overcoming the Fear of Being on Camera25:19 - Balancing Secret Sauce and Expertise Content36:11 - Taking Action and Getting Started with Short-Form Video39:29 - Where to Learn More from JeraLinks from the show:Jera Bean on IGJera Bean on TiktokJera Bean on LinkedInJeraBean.comIf you found this episode of value I’d love for you to reach out and let me know on Instagram @engage_ben or email [email protected] Amos LinkedInBen Amos InstagramBen Amos TwitterRate the Engage Video Marketing Podcast on iTunes

SummaryIn this episode of the Engage Video Marketing Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Daniel Goldstein, who, alongside his business partner Renice, built Visual Domain into Australia's largest video production company before it was acquired by News Corp.Daniel shared the incredible journey of starting the company during the global financial crisis in 2008 and growing it to a team of about 100 people. He discussed the importance of focusing on repeat business and building strong relationships with clients, which was a significant factor in their success and eventual acquisition.We delved into the challenges of scaling a service-based business, the evolution of video content demand, and the strategies they used to sell video production effectively. Daniel highlighted the importance of educating clients on the production process and aligning the value of their services with client expectations.A key part of Visual Domain's success was their proprietary video management system, which streamlined their production process and provided a unique selling proposition. Daniel also touched on the due diligence process during the acquisition and the factors that contributed to their valuation, such as repeat business and revenue growth.As for the future, Daniel is taking a well-deserved break and is open to exploring new opportunities within the video and technology space. He emphasised the rewarding nature of working in a creative industry and the supportive environment that allows for collaboration and growth.For those in the video production industry, Daniel's story is a testament to the potential for growth and success. It's a reminder to think about where your business is heading and to consider your own exit strategy, even if it seems far off in the future.Stay tuned for more insights and stories on the Engage Video Marketing Podcast.If you found this episode of value I’d love for you to reach out and let me know on Instagram @engage_ben or email [email protected] Amos LinkedInBen Amos InstagramBen Amos TwitterRate the Engage Video Marketing Podcast on iTunes

In this episode, Ben and Mike Allton discuss the importance of strategy in digital marketing and the danger of focusing too much on tactics. They explore the state of digital marketing in 2024 and the role of video within marketing strategies. They also discuss the changing audience perceptions of video and the impact of AI on the marketing space. Overall, they emphasise the need for businesses to adapt to the changing landscape of digital marketing and leverage AI to improve their strategies.TakeawaysStrategy is crucial in digital marketing, as it provides the foundation for effective tactics.Businesses should focus on building relationships with their audience and understanding their needs and challenges.Video plays a significant role in marketing strategies, and businesses should consider a mixed approach of high-quality production and raw, authentic content.AI is transforming the marketing space, impacting tools, platforms, and tactics. Businesses should embrace AI and leverage its capabilities to improve their strategies.The digital marketing landscape is constantly changing, and businesses need to stay informed and adapt to new trends and technologies.

SummaryMichelle J Raymond shares her expertise on leveraging LinkedIn for business growth. She emphasises the importance of LinkedIn as a trusted platform and the need for businesses, both B2B and B2C, to have a presence on the platform. Michelle discusses the differences between personal profiles and company pages on LinkedIn and provides insights on managing multiple staff members' profiles. She also highlights the importance of posting content on both personal profiles and company pages, as well as the value of different types of content, such as videos, articles, and newsletters. Michelle offers practical tips for reviving a dead LinkedIn company page and maximising its potential. She also encourages businesses to explore LinkedIn Live as a way to humanise their brand and build a community. In this conversation, Ben is inspired by Michelle J. Raymond to put more effort into their LinkedIn company page and do more live videos on LinkedIn. Michelle shares her expertise on LinkedIn and encourages listeners to bring their company pages and LinkedIn profiles back to life. Ben and Michelle plan to connect further in San Diego and improve their LinkedIn game in the future.TakeawaysLinkedIn is a trusted platform and a valuable tool for business growth.Both personal profiles and company pages are important on LinkedIn, and businesses should invest time and effort into both.Different types of content, such as videos, articles, and newsletters, can be effective on LinkedIn, and businesses should consider their audience's preferences when choosing the format.Reviving a dead LinkedIn company page requires updating and optimising the page, posting regularly, and repurposing existing content.LinkedIn Live is a powerful tool for humanising a brand and building a community. Invest time and effort into improving your LinkedIn company page.If you found this episode of value I’d love for you to reach out and let me know on Instagram @engage_ben or email [email protected] Amos LinkedInBen Amos InstagramBen Amos TwitterRate the Engage Video Marketing Podcast on iTunes

In this episode of the Engage Video Marketing Podcast, I had the opportunity to speak with Christy Poulos, the Global Partnerships Director of Genero. We discussed the changing landscape of video marketing and the relationship between agencies, content creators, and brands. Christy shared insights into how Genero is filling the gap in the market by connecting brands with a global network of professional creatives and providing opportunities for video producers to work with big brands. We also explored the importance of understanding social media platforms and creating content that is tailored to their specific requirements. Overall, it was a fascinating conversation that shed light on the future of video marketing and the role of creativity in this evolving industry.Christie Poulos is a content, digital communications, and creative leader with 20+ years of experience working for leading cross-functional teams to produce compelling creative and content experiences that engage people, solve problems, and drive growth for clients. Currently, she is the Global Partnerships Director of Genero – a creative technology solution for in-house marketing teams, enabling marketing leaders to transform their creative and production approach for greater efficiency. Previously at King Content – a world-leading content marketing agency – Christie led the global Creative, Editorial, and Paid Media teams. As Head of Content for Red Bull UK, Christie led TV, film, and communications projects around the world and was part of the global communications team for the Red Bull Stratos Mission to the Edge of Space.

How would you like to double, triple, quadruple the revenue in your business. Well my guest today did just that, mostly thanks to Reels.Austin Armstrong is a lifelong digital marketer, public speaker, host of the TikTok podcast BusinessTok, CEO of Socialty Pro, an organic SEO & Vertical Video marketing agency, and CEO of Syllaby, a brand new marketing tool that helps business owners create a social media content strategy in minutes. Austin has posted over 2500 videos on TikTok, tripling his own business’s revenue and thousands more across his clients’ accounts. Austin has leveraged his success on TikTok to gain millions of followers across every social media platform.