Avoid These 5 Rookie Mistakes in Your First Business Video
You’ve made the leap—your brand is live, your offer is ready, and now it’s time to press record. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur, a nonprofit leader, or finally stepping into the spotlight after a rebrand, your first business video is a big deal.
But let’s be honest: the camera can be intimidating. And even when you’re full of passion and purpose, it’s easy to make rookie mistakes that dull your message or cost you visibility.
I’ve worked on creating strategies for dozens of first-time video creators—from bold thought leaders to camera-shy founders—and I’ve seen the same five mistakes come up again and again. The good news? Every one of them is fixable, and I’ll show you how.
Mistake #1: Jumping In Without a Clear Message
It’s tempting to start taping with a loose idea and lots of enthusiasm. But here’s the truth: if you don’t know exactly what you’re trying to say, neither will your audience.
Video Production Advice: Before you ever hit record, clarify your goal in one sentence, and know your why for creating the video. Are you educating, introducing, inviting, or selling? Your script (or bullet points should reflect that message.
At DMMA, we offer a complimentary 30-minute video marketing strategy call to help you apply these video techniques to your unique business to update your strategy. Book your call with Debbie today!
Mistake #2: Ignoring Lighting and Sound
This is one of the fastest ways to lose credibility. Viewers will forgive nerves, but they won’t stick around or come back for bad audio or dark, blurry visuals.
Beginner Video Tip: Natural light + quiet room = your best friend. Sit facing a window if possible, with the camera facing you. Never shoot into the window light. Remember to always test your mic (even earbuds can do the job) before taping.
Mistake #3: Making It All About You
Yes, it’s your video—but it’s really about your viewer. If you’re talking only about yourself or your brand, without connecting it to your audience’s pain points or desires, you’ll lose their attention.
Shift the Lens: Your goal is to solve your audience’s problems. Set up the solution by using phrases like “You might be wondering…” or “Here’s how this helps you…” to keep your message relevant.
One of the biggest questions we get asked is “How do I talk about topics I’m passionate about?” When reviewing your audience’s questions and pain points during one of our complimentary 30-minute video marketing strategy calls, Debbie helps you do just that by coaching you to a better focus on those topics. Book your call with Debbie today!
Mistake #4: Overthinking the Tech and Underdelivering the Value
You don’t need an expensive studio setup to be impactful. Many new creators obsess over gear and platforms but forget to focus on the story.
Video Production Advice: Done is better than perfect. Practice a few times, then start with your phone, a tripod, and your message. Your audience wants connection, not perfection.
Mistake #5: Skipping the Call to Action (CTA)
You’ve made a great video… now what? If you don’t guide your viewer to the next step—using directions such as subscribe, visit, book, or follow—you’ve left your momentum on the table.
Beginner Video Tip: End every video with one clear call to action. Keep it simple: “Visit my website,” “Drop your question below,” or “Join the waitlist today.”
Final Thoughts: Everyone Starts Somewhere—Just Don’t Stay There
The best way to improve your videos is to start creating, but with intention. These five rookie mistakes are part of the learning curve, but when you know what to avoid, you can move through that curve much faster.
And remember, you’re not just making content—you’re building trust. One video at a time.
Need help crafting a strategy for your first or next standout video? Let’s talk. As a television producer turned video marketing strategist, I’ve helped entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and CEOs turn basic video clips into visibility-building assets. You could be next.
At DMMA, we offer a complimentary 30-minute video marketing strategy call to help you apply these video techniques to your unique business to update your strategy. Book your call with Debbie today! Or email us directly: Debbie@DeborahMitchellMediaAssociates.com
You can also check out our YouTube channel for more video marketing topics.
