Happy #SocialMediaSaturday, friends!
I wanted to dedicate this edition of my social media series to the new Facebook update regarding Facebook Live via desktop. The update was first announced on September 14th, per SocialTimes:
We’re starting to roll out the ability for people to broadcast live on Facebook from their desktop or laptop.
Like many of you, I’ve grown to love using Facebook Live to broadcast occasional updates especially special events or fishing trips. I try to exclude politics from my broadcasts unless they revolve around unique speaking engagements. Video is the future, and it’s great to see so many adapt to this feature to get their message out there. (As you know, Facebook’s algorithm gives priority to video over regular content now.) There are some limitations to using the Live broadcast feature on your phone, however. Bad angles, horrible lighting, poor WiFi reception–these common complaints must have compelled higher ups to roll-out the desktop version. Here’s more from Digital Trends:
The wider launch of the feature reportedly comes on the back of requests from vloggers, journalists, and general fans of Live video. Facebook claims the desktop version is currently only available to a “small percentage” of users with more set to receive the feature “in the coming months.”
The company added that Facebook Live video on desktop supports both peripheral cameras, in addition to built-in cameras on laptops.
Not sure how to configure Facebook Live? Here’s a link to the comprehensive guide from HubSpot.
Below are some recommendations on how to maximize your Facebook Live experience especially with enhanced Desktop abilities:
Find a niche topic and broadcast about it
When deciding to go Live on Facebook, consider the following: discuss a topic familiar to your audience. Do you primarily discuss politics? Sports? Hunting? Cooking? Whatever your forte, focus on that. Consistency will allow more people to Subscribe to your broadcasts, get more likes, and followers. If not already an authority on a subject, become one. Differentiate yourself from other Facebook users or offer a unique take on an issue. Different matters. Now that we can soon broadcast through our computers, keep this in mind!
Stay positive
Nobody likes a negative Nancy, so stay positive. People respond better to positive things so try to broadcast about more positive subjects. (It’s also great for sharing surprises, I guarantee it. ;)) No matter the device phone or computer stay positive. It has YUGE dividends. Plus, conservatives shouldn’t feed into the false stereotype that were angry.
Find an area with good reception for optimal video quality
Have you struggled to find a spot with good reception to broadcast? (Same goes for me!) It can be difficult to go live via smart phone due to spotty reception. Nonetheless, this desktop update may help reduce the issue of locating good reception. Until then, secure a good broadcast location. It’ll translate to more views and engagement.
Broadcast for 5-10 minutes
Using this principle for your phone, definitely try broadcasting for a suggested timeframe of 5-10 minutes once this feature comes to desktop. More seasoned social media marketers suggest broadcasting for 5-10 minutes. The longer one broadcasts, the more time your audience has a chance to catch your video. Don’t broadcast too long though that can tire people and cause them to tune out.
Avoid using filler words
Like some of you, I’m guilty of this. Heck, I’ve even used you know in some of my recent broadcasts. (Yikes!!) We can can become effective public speakers if we willingly choose our words more carefully and relax. I beat myself up over this egregious practice and abuse of rhetoric whenever I rewatch some broadcasts. I ask myself, why did I say that so many times? Nevertheless, I always strive to improve my oratory skills–so can you! When going Live speak clearly, breathe deeply, and don’t rush. Hold steady, aim your focus, and look straight into the camera whether on your phone or your computer. This is an ever-changing, human-oriented platform. It’s okay to show your real side since were all prone to error. If you mess up, don’t worry! Play along and go with the flow.
Prepare talking points in advance to avoid making major mistakes
My best Facebook Live broadcasts –ones with over 1.5k views– have done well because I’ve prepared ahead of time. Without sounding rehearsed, I generally jot down my thoughts on what I want to discuss and just roll with it. I make sure to have some basic talking points down so I can personalize my take on a subject. It just flows better and allows me to better engage with my Facebook friends/followers. This strategy can help you too, so try it out!
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Do you use Facebook Live? If not, do you anticipate using it more once it comes to desktop? Let me know!
As always, I recommend you follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop with my musings. Let me know if you found this post to be helpful or not in the comments section below!