Whatever the content, some guidelines ring true for all training videos. Below, tips for making an effective video, no matter what field you're in.
Keep it Short.
Have you ever sat through a 60 minute training video? I have, and guess what? I couldn't even tell you what it was about! The whole point of a training video is to learn, but just like in school, if the lesson is boring people lose interest. A 10 minute video is a much more effective length. If you're topic warrants more content (such as workplace behavior) break it up into 10 minute digestible sections, with breaks (possibly for group discussion) in between. The first segment could be about harassment, the second about insider trading and so on.
Use Lots of Angles
For demonstrating how to use a product or piece of equipment, it's really important to shoot the demonstration several times using several angles, especially close ups. Think about it this way: if you were teaching someone to use a piece of equipment one-on-one, your student would probably be moving around to get the best view of what you were doing at each point- they'd lean over here, stand behind you at this point, maybe stand on their toes to see that... You'll want to give your video viewer the best possible vantage point for every part of the process. That means performing and shooting the task more than once and cutting it all together in post production.
Use it to Sell
Sometimes a training video isn't just for employees; it's for potential customers. If you have a new concept or product, teaching people about it is the best way to market it. Showing how easy it is to use is a great selling point! This model has made the television shopping industry a multi-billion dollar business!
Keep it Accessible
Remember that 60 minute video I told you about? In the unlikely event I ever wanted to view it again, I couldn't. I have no idea where it is. If your employees want or need a refresher on their training, they should have access to it. I recommend creating a YouTube channel for your business and uploading training videos there so they're always on hand whenever a worker needs it.
A training video is a great time and money saver for your business. If the training is needed company wide, employees can view the video individually at a convenient time, as opposed to shutting down operations so everyone can get live training all at once. It's also useful to have on hand when new people join your organization. Dedicating the time and resources to make a training video now will save you time and money in the long run.
