How Nonprofits Can Tap Into the Power of Video Storytelling
There's no denying it, video storytelling is a powerful tool for nonprofits and is the top converting media for storytelling content. By harnessing the power of video, nonprofits can engage with their audiences on a deeper level and create an emotional connection that resonates. So how can nonprofits use videos to tell a compelling story and make an impact?
Let’s take a look at four ways that nonprofits can use more video in their storytelling.
Use Videos to Showcase Impactful Stories
The stories that capture people’s hearts are often those that showcase real people who have been impacted by your nonprofit’s work. By using videos to tell these stories, you can create an emotional connection that helps draw people in and increases engagement. It doesn't have to be complicated; simple interviews with beneficiaries or volunteers talking about their experiences will do the trick.
Here are some video ideas:
A story of how a person’s life was changed for the better once working with your nonprofit
A recent volunteer event
How your nonprofit is creating social change
How your nonprofit is being more inclusive
Legislation recently passed that was heavily influenced by your organization
How do different age groups interact with and benefit from your nonprofit
Utilize Live Streaming
Live streaming is a great way to connect with your audience in real-time. Instead of recording and editing footage, live streaming allows you to connect directly with viewers while they're watching. It makes it feel real, unscripted, and authentic - which can work really well when building your audience's (and potential donor’s) trust! You can use this platform to answer questions from donors or followers, provide updates on recent events, or start conversations around important topics related to your nonprofit's mission. In addition, it gives you an opportunity to show off your organization's culture, people, and values in action!
Leverage Animated Videos
Animated videos are incredibly versatile tools for nonprofits - they can be used for explainer videos, promotional campaigns, fundraising appeals, educational content, important observations, and more! Whether you opt for hand-drawn animation or motion graphics – animated videos allow you to make complex topics easier to understand and more engaging for viewers. It also allows your viewers to connect with characters visually instead of just relying on audio, like traditional filmmaking does – which makes the story even more impactful!
Create Shorter Social Media Videos
Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are ideal outlets for creating shorter promotional clips that showcase what your nonprofit stands for, why someone should donate or why someone should volunteer their time/money/skill set. With these types of “snackable” videos you want them to be short (under 1 minute, if possible!) so they don't lose your viewers' attention - but still get the message across effectively. You could also consider making longer form content such as documentaries or mini-series which will help deepen the relationship between donors/volunteers and your organization over time.
Video storytelling is key when it comes to engaging with potential donors or volunteers and spreading awareness about important causes. By leveraging different types of video formats such as live streams, animations, and shorter social media clips – nonprofits can create meaningful connections with their audience and showcase the impact their work has had on individuals around them. With these tips in mind, nonprofits should feel empowered when it comes time to use video storytelling!
Need help with telling and writing powerful stories? Shoot us an email over at support@heytoriautumn.com and let’s chat about this more.
