Video marketing is an effective technique that's accessible to a variety of businesses. Small business owners and large corporations can both use this visual-based marketing method to attract potential customers, build a following, and increase sales.

Similar to other types of social media marketing, there are do's and don'ts, as well as marketing etiquette businesses should follow to use video marketing effectively. The guidelines below can help individuals determine when and how to use this media for effective, budget-savvy marketing.

• The Evolution of Video Marketing.

When businesses started using video marketing, it was a marketing medium accessible only to those with deep pockets or professional connections. The advent of YouTube, VidCaster, and other online video hosting sites has changed all of that, making video content a marketing method everyone can use. Easy access to sites where videos can be uploaded, edited, and hosted will make this type of marketing increasingly popular in the future.

• Effective Marketing Techniques.

Consumers won't waste their time with spam-filled advertising videos. Today's savvy consumers are looking to be informed; video content marketing that includes useful information, such as a how-to or demonstration, will be a lot more effective than a video resembling a commercial. Keep it short, to the point, and rich with relevant information.

• Ineffective Ways to Use Video Marketing.

Don't overdo it on keywords when creating video content. Keywords are important, but repeating the same things over and over will cause you to quickly lose your audience. Likewise, use images and video that looks professional; blurry, inappropriate content leads to a loss of credibility.

• How to Achieve Optimum Results.

A lack of experience with video marketing doesn't have to cause a businessperson to miss out on its benefits. Many video hosting sites also provide professional services to assist in creating an effective marketing video that can help an individual reach business goals. Various service packages allow businesses to take advantage of the video marketing expertise offered regardless of their marketing budget.

Before beginning any new marketing campaign, a business owner should lay the groundwork for success by determining the goals to be achieved and the audience to be reached. These two factors play an important role in the success of any marketing campaign. By taking time to create specific business goals and learn more about the targeted audience, the business owner can gear his or her video marketing efforts toward the right people to attain the desired results.

Video will continue to be an integral part of technology-based marketing and can provide business owners with the opportunity to reach consumers around the globe. A video that's been planned well and produced professionally can assist a businessperson in gaining exposure, credibility, or increased sales.

Those who use this marketing medium wisely will find that it's one of the most effective ways to gain the interest and business of savvy consumers in the community and worldwide.

Mary Ylisela is a veteran author and motivational coach who writes about business topics for entrepreneurs and small business owners. She's used video marketing for her business and encourages others to expand to creative social media and internet-based marketing methods.