Professional vs. Personal Touch: Should You Star in Your Business Video or Hire Outside Talent?

In today's digital age, when content is king and video reigns supreme, businesses face a pivotal question: Should the owner or an internal team member be the face and voice of their brand's video content? Or is it better to bring in a professional actor or voiceover artist? The answer, as with most things in marketing, isn't cut and dried. Let's dive in to explore the pros and cons of each approach.

Starring in Your Own Business Video

Pros:

1. Authenticity: By presenting yourself or a team member, viewers perceive a direct connection with the brand. This can foster trust and brand loyalty.

2. Cost-Effective: Cutting out the middle man (or actor) can be cost-saving, especially for small businesses or startups.

3. Brand Continuity: Using a consistent face or voice from the company can lead to increased brand recognition over time.

Cons:

1. Quality Concerns: Without professional training, your on-screen or vocal delivery might not be as polished as that of a trained actor or voiceover artist.

2. Time-Consuming: Preparing and rehearsing for the role might take up time that could be better spent on other aspects of your business.

Hiring a Professional Actor or Voiceover Artist

Pros:

1. Professionalism: Professional actors and voiceover artists bring a level of polish and quality to the content, enhancing its appeal.

2. Versatility: They can adapt their performance to fit different tones or messages.

3. Saves Time: They often require less direction and fewer takes to get the desired performance.

Cons:

1. Cost: Hiring professionals can be expensive, especially high-demand or well-known ones.

2. Potential Disconnect: If not chosen wisely or if the performance feels inauthentic, viewers might sense a disconnect between the message and the messenger.

Real-World Examples

Dollar Shave Club: The founder, Michael Dubin, starred in his company's promotional video, giving it a unique, authentic touch. This quirky approach fit perfectly with the brand's identity, and the video went viral.

Various Tech Product Ads: Tech companies often hire professional actors for product demonstrations because a polished presentation aligns with their brand image.

The Role of a Video Production Company in Bringing Out Your Best

Often, the difference between a stellar on-screen performance and a mediocre one isn't just the person in front of the camera but the team behind it. Working with the right video production company can significantly elevate your on-screen presence, even if you've never acted or spoken in a video before. A proficient production team will guide you through the nuances of delivery, body language, and tone, ensuring that your message is not only heard but felt by the audience. For us, empowering our clients to shine on camera is a top priority. We believe that with the right guidance, preparation, and environment, you can perform far beyond your expectations and truly connect with your audience.

Conclusion

Whether to star in your own video or hire outside talent depends on your brand's message, your target audience, and the resources available to you. It's essential to weigh the benefits of authenticity and direct connection against the polish and professionalism that actors or voiceover artists can bring. Whichever route you choose, remember that the ultimate goal is to resonate with your audience and effectively communicate your brand's message.