3 WAYS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR LIVE STREAMING CAPABILITIES

• 2/24/2018
• Media Relations
• Social Media
• Corporate Communications
• Lauren Pershke

Largemouth team members were in Orlando for the 2018 International Builders’ Show (IBS), the largest annual light construction show in the world. Over the course of the three days our client Eaton’s booth was open for show attendees, we met with media, facilitated broadcast and radio interviews, and managed a Facebook Live and Periscope event with celebrity contractors in front of the Professional Builder Show Village Home.

The Facebook Live and Periscope event featured Canadian celebrity contractors Mike Holmes, Mike Holmes, Jr. and Sherry Holmes answering connected devices, safety and surge protection-related questions from the online audience—three priority topics that aligned with Eaton’s show presence and positioning.

What can we share from this experience? Here are some tips on how you can live stream like a professional:

1. RUN A TEST VIDEO
   
   Though it may sound simple, it’s important to always test out your Facebook Live or Periscope video before the actual event. Those of us who have conducted these know that there’s more to it than just “lights, camera, action,” and that one mishap can compromise the entire live stream. Always conduct a complete set up to ensure you have every piece of equipment you could possibly need in addition to testing the sound, wireless connection and video quality. We had Largemouth team members back in the office review our test streams to ensure everything was looking and sounding great just prior to the official event.
    
2. PREPARE FOR THE UNEXPECTED
   
   During last year’s IBS live stream with Holmes, we had an unexpected visit from HGTV’s Scott McGillivray mid-Facebook Live. Our (almost) surprise guest in 2018 would not have been as welcome as the TV star—just minutes after we wrapped up our outdoor live segment we felt giant raindrops coming down. Through a lucky break, the rain served as an important reminder that when you’re planning a live event, it’s best to prepare for the unexpected. That may include a backup location, a way to redirect attention to the online audience or a way to moderate the conversation.
   
   
    
3. HAVE FUN WITH IT
   
   The key to holding a successful Facebook Live or Periscope video is to engage your audience by reminding them that this is unscripted, LIVE content! Don’t be afraid to take a few moments to let viewers tune in prior to kicking off what you’re sharing or discussing. Let the viewers’ excitement build as they await the exclusive “behind-the-scenes” look at your brand. Though the streaming process takes a lot of preparation for a polished, quality stream, the true opportunity lies in the authenticity of the content that will live on your social page forever.
   
   

For more information about managing a social media campaign or event, contact us today!