Best Practices for Making a Video Advocacy Message

Think of your Video Advocacy Message as a quick face-to-face meeting with decision-makers. However, unlike an in-person meeting that takes place amid numerous distractions, you are in complete control of the content of this video "meeting". Your video is a lasting record of what you want to say. The decision-makers who watch your video can replay and review it multiple times, days after they first receive it.

Just like a face-to-face meeting with decision-makers, your time is short - the ideal length for your Video Advocacy Message is 30 seconds to 3 minutes.

Be prepared about what you want to say. Review the information about the issue provided in the Action Alert.

Speak slowly and clearly and address the decision-makers directly by looking straight into the camera.

When making your video, these are important questions to address:

• Who are you?
  • The decision-makers who watch your video will want to know your name and what city and state you are from.
  • If you're speaking about this issue as a member of an organization, mention that as well.
• What has compelled you to make this video?
  • This video is your opportunity to share with decision-makers your personal interest and passion about this issue.

Relax and have fun, and be polite while making your Video Advocacy Message. Decision-makers will remember the videos they enjoyed watching.