I love working from home as a Virtual Assistant! However, on occasion, there are challenges to working virtually. One of those challenges is to accurately, and in detail, explain how to do something that your client needs to know how to do without you. Because you do, periodically, take time off – right? 😉
The answer? Make a video!
Often there are tasks that aren’t done on a regular basis, and for me it’s nearly impossible to remember them by memory. And, if they are fairly involved, it can be just as hard to describe them in writing.
The solution is a video demo, something you can do quickly, easily, and step-by-step for your clients. Or yourself for that matter, especially if it’s easier to learn by watching (as it is for me).
There are several software solutions you can use for this (many are free), including Loom.com and Screencastomatic.com. I personally use Loom.
When making great how-to client videos, remember these simple things:
1. Skip the small talk. Start the video by saying “this video will explain how to do x, y and z using such and such software.” There’s no need to say hello or catch them up on any of work details. They’ll probably watch the video many times and that type of information won’t be relevant.
2. Start at the top. Remember the reason you’re making the video for your client is because they don’t know or can’t remember how to do the task. Be sure the video is as complete as possible. Start with logging in and show them, step-by-step, how to perform the task through to completion. Do it as if they have never done the task before.
3. Don’t forget the details. Instead of saying “click the blue button,” say “click the blue button at the top of your screen on the right side that says ‘Save.’” This will keep them from being too confused, and your client will be more confident that they’re able to follow along.
4. Write down the main points you don’t want to forget and be sure to practice a time or two so you don’t “ramble”.
5. Name the video accurately. Often applications like Loom will automatically assign a name like “Desktop recording, December 15, 2019, 5 minutes.” That will mean nothing to your client and make it difficult for them to look for it in the future. Plus, over time you might send more than one video. Use names like “Adding new subscribers to MailChimp.”
One last thing – be sure you keep copies of these valuable videos organized for your client, too, in case you need to send it again in the future. And, you might have the same explanatory video for a process that is used by more than one client. You may have multiple videos for how to add new subscribers in MailChimp. Be sure they are saved for the appropriate client so no one sees log in information for someone else!
My clients LOVE and appreciate the care and detail I put into the videos I make for them, and it truly helps them to understand and appreciate all that I do for them.