After assessing your current marketing efforts, you realize you need a new video for your site.
So, what do you do?
If you don’t have the knowledge, skills, time, and resources to produce exceptional videos on your own, your best option would be to invest in the services of a seasoned video production company.
However, if you want your video to deliver the results you desire, you need to work with the best video production team you can find.
How do you pull off this challenging feat?
Get your search off to an exceptional start by asking prospective candidates the following key questions:
When can you start working on my project?
Video production companies that are in demand may not be able to work on your project right away.
Oftentimes, they can work on the video at a future date.
If you want the video done the soonest possible time, you might need to reconsider and look someplace else.
However, if they are very good, they might be worth the wait.
Additional tip:
Ensure you get everything in writing.
Important details discussed whether over the phone or in person should also be put into writing.
Don’t forget to include crucial information like start date, estimated timeline, and pricing, to name a few.
How long will the project take?
Typically, a live action or animated explainer video will take at least 6 to 8 weeks to complete.
If you require a shorter time for your video to be completed, check first with the prospective video team if it’s feasible.
Make sure you are able to check with the production’s progress every now and then so you can release the video on the desired date.
What potential hold-ups should I look out for?
In most cases, the answer to this question will vary depending if the project is live action or animated.
However, in the case of live action projects, possible hold ups can include talent hiccups, weather, location permits, etc.
If the video production team won’t be able to give out a few likely hold ups, they might not be the best fit for you.
How will my edit requests and other concerns be handled?
This question can help you gauge if your prospective creative partner is organized.
Preferably, it would be best to go for a video company who uses project management tool for the projects they handle.
In addition, you should clearly lay out expectations in terms of regular check-ins, kick off calls, and other things you might need clarified.
Do you have a clear understanding of the type of business I am engaged in?
The best fit for your project should be a company that has a crystal clear understanding of the product or service you are offering.
If your creative partner does not have this understanding, you can’t expect them to be able to identify the elements that make your company stand out.
Also, when they lack the comprehension, they won’t be able to highlight the things that make your brand special.
That being said, prior to signing on the dotted line, make sure you ask and gauge if they have a clear understanding of your business and brand.
Who will own the final video assets/files?
Generally, you should have full ownership of the video once you have paid for everything.
However, some creative will retain the rights to use the video as part of their portfolio and demo reel.
In the case of animation, you can negotiate if you want to ensure the individual character assets are not used in any future work.
Additional key questions
Other essential questions you need to ask include:
- How long have you been in business?
- How many videos have you produced?
- What is your team structure?
- Who will be involved in the project?
- What is your company culture?
- What video are you most proud of?
- What was the biggest mistake you have made and how did you resolve it?
Conclusion
To help guarantee you get your money’s worth, ensure you do your research and ask the right questions.
Keep in mind that doing your part can also help you avoid wasting money and missing your deadline.