Facebook Live 101

Since Facebook Live Video became a reality for everyone back in April, I’ve received dozens of calls and messages each week from people who are desperate to learn how to use it for their business.  Why is it so popular? Mark Zuckerberg put it best when he said, “it’s like having a TV camera in your pocket. Anyone with a phone now has the power to broadcast to anyone in the world. When you interact live, you feel connected in a more personal way. This is a big shift in how we communicate, and it's going to create new opportunities for people to come together”.

Facebook Live Video is a great place to start creating engaging videos since the platform has such a broad range of users from all demographics. Unlike other live streaming platforms, Facebook allows you to save your videos after they aired. You can use Facebook Live Videos for lead generation, showcase your brand, stand out from competitors and more. Below are step by step instructions to help you get started using Facebook Live for your business.

Step 1

Currently Facebook Live video is only available on the mobile app. You will need to open the Facebook app on your Android or Apple device and then click on the status bar as if you were going to write a new post. You will then see an icon of a person next to the camera icon. Click this to get started.

Step 2

Click the Facebook Live icon. Give Facebook permissions to access your microphone and camera and then continue. They will only ask for this once.

Step 3

Next you'll want to write an eye catching introduction that will explain what the videos about and hook your viewer. After you've written the description of the video you will see a small double arrow in the top right. This will switch your camera view to either facing you or facing outward.

Now you're ready to go live. Click the "Go Live" button to begin filming with a 90 minute cap on the allowed time. Facebook will give you a 3, 2, 1 countdown and then you're ready to share your first Facebook Live video with the world.

Once you’ve finished recording click “Finished” to end your broadcast.  Once you’ve done this, the video will stay on your page just like any other post.

Once the video is complete you’ll have the option to save it to your camera roll for safekeeping. 

Are you ready to record your first Facebook Live video? It’s that simple!

Do you need some help determining how to use Facebook Live for your business? Click here to schedule a consultation with me to discuss the best video strategy for your business!