Five Ways Small Campaigns Can Use Video to Maximize Their Impact
In today's fast-paced digital world, small campaigns and causes have an unprecedented opportunity to harness video as a powerful tool for change.
Videos are not just visuals; they're vehicles of connection, emotion, and persuasion. They have the unique ability to break down complex issues, evoke empathy, and inspire action, bridging the gap between your campaign's vision and your audience's heart.
Here are five ways you can maximize your impact with video. And you don’t need fancy gear … you have a smartphone, right?
1. Amplify Your Narrative
Your story is your strength. By crafting videos that share your campaign's mission, values, and journey, you allow viewers to connect with your cause on a human level. Highlight personal anecdotes and testimonies from your community—these authentic narratives can resonate deeply, turning passive viewers into passionate advocates. Think how the origin stories of current political candidates and officials hit you … like AOC working as a barista before she ran for office.
2. Create Impactful Testimonials
Harness the power of personal stories by featuring testimonials from those directly affected by or involved in your campaign. These narratives can provide a face and voice to your cause, and that can foster empathy and understanding. Compelling stories can bridge gaps and build trust, making your message resonate more deeply and encouraging viewers to support your initiatives.
We’re practicing what we preach by capturing stories on smartphone video through our Storyteller Project partnership with Rural GroundGame. One video we just made was with a retired primary care physician who had never “been political.” He had voted and watched some conventions on TV but never participated in a protest … until now. What’s going on in DC has pushed him to take action, and he has two protests under his belt now.
3. Educate and Inspire
Educational content is a cornerstone of maximizing impact. You can use video to break down complex issues into easily digestible segments. By educating your audience you're empowering folks to take informed actions. For instance, you could create a set of video FAQs about staying safe at public protests and publish them to your YouTube channel or website. Follow up with a video interview or two with protest attendees who share what it was like to be there.
4. Mobilize Your Base
Videos that include a strong call to action mobilize support. Whether it's encouraging viewers to volunteer, donate, or share your message, a clear, compelling call to action can drive immediate engagement. Visual cues and direct language strengthen your message, making your ask more irresistible.
5. Optimize for Social Platforms
To reach your audience where they are, tailor your video content for specific social media platforms. Experiment with different formats, like short clips for Instagram and TikTok and extended content for YouTube and Facebook. Each platform offers unique opportunities to engage users and expand your reach, so adapt your strategy accordingly.
Join Us at the Video Activists Academy
At the Video Activists Academy, we're committed to showing you how to break through traditional barriers and make video a formidable ally in your campaign toolkit. Your voice, amplified through video, can be a catalyst for change.
And did we mention that you already have the main tool you need? Your smartphone!
Click the link below to learn more. And please subscribe to our Substack to get video tips as well as practical suggestions for fighting the forces arrayed against us. One upcoming post, for instance, is entitled, “How to Show Up: Visiting Your Congressperson’s Office and Demanding Action.”
Stay active. Stay safe. Keep going.