I turned 50 this year and am sensitive about no longer being ‘the hip technology person.’ As I struggle to learn SnapChat, I face the reality that this app may not be for me. It took me forever to learn how to use the app: I cannot wrap my head around why I would send out a 10-second video. Who really wants to see that? While I may not ‘get it,’ the going-live culture isn’t going away soon. Instagram and Facebook now give you the ability to record and share video easily via social media. It’s the wave of the future, so I decided to dig into it further.
The first thing you should keep in mind is these features are easier to use with the mobile app. You can’t add anything to SnapChat or Instagram from their website pages (based on my research). Facebook Live with your desktop isn’t available to everyone. If you are a Windows 10 user, there is an app you can use on your desktop. But who wants to watch you sitting in your chair? Action shots required!
As I explored creating my story, I thought about what to share. While in New York with my sister recently, she did this crazy bit about where she was and what she was doing. Each time she would go live, her personality shined through, and it helped others connect with her as a person. These live episodes are your opportunity to connect with people and let them get to know you a little better. I recommend practicing a little and making sure it is something you would be proud to show your mother.
Finally, consider who will see your video. I review who has access to view what I post on social media. Even when going live for your business, you should think about your audience. Check your settings with each social media channel when posting video or going live to make sure you understand who actually can see the video. Start out with a small group before you start sharing with the world.
So, once you get going, make sure you are careful to not accidentally ‘go live.’ A friend went live while doing her dishes. When we told her she was live, she was grateful she wasn’t taking a bath at the time!
check out: Find the floor plans for your favorite TV show apartment at nerdist.com.
try out: Twitter’s live feed, Periscope: periscope.tv/
Sheila Burkett is an information technology expert and co-founder of Spry Digital, an interactive design agency that delivers smart digital solutions. Catch her weekly Spry Hive at sprydigital.com/blog.
