Quantum Leap Podcast Episode #6: “Video Solutions for Small Business and Entrepreneurs During COVID-19,” w/ Clifton Barnes, Jr.

In this timely and insightful interview, co-hosts David Kersten and Cory Nott interview East Bay video producer Clifton Barnes, Jr. to get his insights and tips for how to produce effective video during COVID-19. 
 
Clifton, who owns CA&C Video Productions, is a second generation video producer.  Clifton’s dad, Clifton Barnes, Sr., started the company in 1985. 
 
We believe in “preserving history,” Clifton said, “because history is important.”  Clifton can convert old VHS tapes to digital and offers an array of other high-quality video production services including live streaming, client testimonials, event video such as weddings, and corporate videos and other business seminars.  Link to full slate of services:  https://www.cacvideo.com/
 
Clifton, who is an excellent video spokesperson himself, presented on a number of key tips for small businesses and entrepreneurs. 
 
Clifton’s recommendations include: 
 
--Use video on your social media platforms, because they are free.
--Show the “human aspect” of your business, by using “behind the scenes” video that can even be shot on your I-phone.  This helps “remove the veil,” and attracts people to you and your business by showing the human aspect of your business, and demonstrates your credibility and knowledge in your field.
--Provide video testimonials from clients that you served to show the “passion” of your clients about how you help them solve their problem.  These are very useful for social media to share on platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook and You Tube, based on your target market. 
--Learn “Zoom etiquette” for effective video, which means having good lighting, a “level camera” and good audio. 
 
Quantum Leap Podcast, co-host David Kersten, also presented some key tips on effectively using video in the COVID-19 environment. 
 
David suggested that listeners tune into Lousie Goeckel’s Quantum Leap podcast for valuable insights on the COVID-19 business environment.  Link to that podcast:  https://youtu.be/lWjjQIbrYCk
 
David noted that the word “crisis” in Chinese is written with two brush stokes—one brush stroke denoting “danger” and the other for “opportunity.” 
 
“Among other things crisis represents opportunities to grow in wisdom.  When you approach each crisis with this attitude, you will pluck the opportunity out of each situation and benefit from it.  This attitude also sets the stage mentally for you to continue to grow,” states a quote from former U.S. President Richard M. Nixon, that David read on air. 
 
In short, this crisis helped sow the seeds for the success of the “Quantum Leap” podcast and accompanying video marketing program, David said. 
 
David said the crisis has limited in-person video production, but concluded that 80% of production can be produced remotely through Zoom and other platforms. 
 
Perhaps most importantly, the COVID-19 crisis has dramatically increased demand and the need for video and online digital products and services, as well as creating a fertile market for business development and pointing up the need for new, innovative communications strategies.  
 
David went on to take a quick look at some key video solutions that he offers for small business during COVID-19 including:
 
1. Setting up and operating a Podcast (audio/video)    
2. Setting up and operating a Vlog (video blog)
3.Quick tips video series to promote your business
4.Video package for website (i.e. flagship video, about video, testimonials, starter package)
5.Mini-Documentary or “Biopic” on you and your business
6.Docuseries (i.e. the The Ripple Effect 2020)
 
Podcast co-host Cory Nott provided some interesting insights on the use of video, noting that the most common way in which people learn is “visually” and that even if you are not as big a fan of video, most of your clients are so it needs to be taken seriously.
 
Cory suggested that small business owners start with “your why,” because “people buy why you do what you do.”  It is important to tell people why you do the things you do, and this will attract more people to you and your business.
 
Cory specializes in helping people use “their why” to attract clients.  Check out his website at https://takewingcoaching.com/ and innovative platform for freelancers and entrepreneurs called “Lift” at: https://takewing.mn.co/
  
Video producer Clifton Barnes Jr. can be reached at (209) 877-7636 and [email protected] .  Clifton’s website is www.cacvideo.com.
 
Video marketer and podcast co-host David Kersten can be reached at (510) 725-7658 or at [email protected] and his website is www.davidmkersten.com . 
 
Please feel free to contact us to see how we may be able to be helpful to you and your business or organization during these challenging times.   
 
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