My First Steps into Video Content
Figuring It Out as I Go
Don’t be fooled by appearances—I’m a total newbie when it comes to filming myself for social media. But this year, I’ve committed to showing up on video, and let me tell you, it’s been a journey.
Not a smooth, polished, confident journey. A messy, awkward, why-did-I-agree-to-this kind of journey.
But the thing is—this is exactly how change feels. Whether it’s starting something new, stepping into a leadership role, or leading change in an organization, it always feels uncomfortable at first.
And that’s where I am with video. Figuring it out. Learning as I go.
Why Bother With Video?
Honestly, I resisted video for a long time. Writing is more my comfort zone—I can edit, tweak, and refine before hitting “publish.” But with video? There’s nowhere to hide. And there’s no AI assistant to help either!
So why push myself into something that feels uncomfortable?
Because everything I’ve read (and everyone I respect) says video is one of the most powerful ways to:
✅ Build a personal brand – People don’t just remember what you say, they remember you. Video helps you stand out as a thought leader in your space.
✅ Show up as real and unfiltered – No carefully curated words—just you, as you are. This creates deeper connections with your audience.
✅ Build trust faster – We connect with faces, voices, and expressions in a way that text just can’t match.
And from a purely practical standpoint? LinkedIn, Instagram, and most social media platforms love video. More reach = more impact.
What I’m Learning Along the Way
If you’ve been thinking about starting video but feel awkward, here’s what I’ve learned (so far):
1. Just Start (Even If It Feels Like a Disaster)
The first time I hit record, I had no idea what I was doing. I cringed at my voice. I stumbled over words. I ummed and erred a LOT! I wondered why my bottom teeth suddenly seemed so visible. Silly but true!
But I also realised something: The only way to get better is to keep going. There’s no shortcut—just repetition, practice, and a whole lot of awkwardness in between.
2. Done is Better Than Perfect
I can spend ages overthinking a video—how I look, whether I should redo it, if I sound too much or not enough. But every time I push through and just post, I remind myself: Nobody is expecting perfection.
People don’t connect with perfect. They connect with real.
3. Overthinking is the Enemy
For every reason I can think of to post a video, I can think of 10 reasons not to.
"I don’t have the right setup."
"I don’t sound polished enough."
"What if nobody cares?"
Sound familiar? Yeah, same. But I’ve decided those reasons aren’t good enough to stop me.
4. Get Over Your Ego (Yes, I Said It)
Watching myself on camera has been... confronting. My facial expressions, my voice, the way I move—it all felt weird at first. Still does to be honest.
But then I realised: This is just how I am. The way I look and sound in videos? That’s exactly how I show up in real life. And I don’t cringe at myself in real life, so why do it now?
5. Trust That You Have Something Worth Saying
This is the hardest part for me. The little voice that says, “Who cares what you have to say?” is always lurking.
But the truth is, we all have something to say. Our experiences, insights, and stories mean something to someone. Even if it helps just one person, it’s worth saying.
6. You Don’t Need Fancy Equipment
I had this idea that I needed the perfect setup to start—professional lighting, an expensive mic, maybe even a camera crew (kidding… kind of).
Turns out, all I actually need is my phone, a window for good lighting, and maybe a tripod. That’s it.
7. Storytelling Makes Everything Better
One of the things I’ve noticed? The videos I enjoy most (from others) aren’t just packed with tips and insights. They have stories.
So instead of trying to sound like an “expert” all the time, I’m trying to bring more me into my videos—real experiences, things I’ve learned the hard way, even the struggles I haven’t fully figured out yet.
Because that’s what makes content stick. That’s what people connect with.
What’s Next?
Honestly? I’m still figuring this out.
Some days I feel confident hitting record. Other days I overthink everything and want to hide behind a static post. But I do know this: The only way forward is through.
So if you’re in the same boat—wanting to start but feeling unsure—just start. Hit record. Post the video. Learn as you go.
And if you’ve already started, I’d love to hear from you—what’s been your biggest lesson so far? Drop me a message or connect with me on LinkedIn or Instagram.
Let’s figure this out together.
—Mel 😊
