About two years ago we introduced a DVD brochure at our studio and have been receiving great reviews from prospective clients. In our recent teleseminar for studio owners we gave a brief description of what we did and how it has worked for us. We have had a lot of interest in it and have had requests to do a story on the exact "how to" of it. Below is an outline of what you will need to create one. The best thing about the DVD brochure is that you can highlight the USP (unique selling proposition) that makes you different from your competitors. Think of it as a five to seven minute infomercial. When prospective clients come in to your studio and you hand them a DVD it is very unique and a powerful tool. When you mail them your literature and you include a DVD brochure you know that you are providing them with something different from everyone else. Furthermore you can give them a look at your studio, so when they do come in, they feel like they already know you and are familiar with your facility. You will need someone who can edit video. You will also need a video camera or to hire a videographer. Let's take a look at where to start and what is needed.

How To Start

1. Look at past videos of your showcases, recitals and any other footage you have of performances that you think show your studio's best work. Make sure you show all levels and ages. It is important for you to mark down the time codes of exactly which clips you want and how many seconds of each. Then you will need to figure out the exact order in which you want them to be placed.

 2. Take video of your studio inside and out. Gather together clips of your classes and also of your staff talking with your customers.

3. Video testimonials. Talk to your best customers and see if they will agree to be videoed doing a testimonial about your studio. We created a list of five questions for them to give their answers to and gave it to them to think about before they came in for the filming. The questions were, 1) why did you choose us? 2) How is your child benefiting from the classes and what do you think they are getting out of them? 3) what do you like best about our program? 4) How do you compare us to other studios? 5) If you could say one important thing about us, what would it be?

 4. You will need to be in a room without a lot of outside noise. Film a few takes to make sure you have one that you are happy with. At the end of the session make sure you look at the video and decide exactly which footage you feel looks the best.

5. It is also a good idea to use still photos if you have some really good shots that you feel represent you well they could, perhaps highlight a certain topic.

6. Find music that you can use throughout. We think something instrumental is best because it won't distract anyone from your message. It is recommended that you use royalty free music.

7. Build a script. You will need to have a narration of the video. This will take prospective clients through the whole experience like a guided tour and bring focus to your USP's. The person who does the voice over will need to have a good, clear and pleasant speaking voice.

8. Introduce yourself to your prospective clients. Film some video with you saying "hello" and thanking them for taking the time to view your material. Encourage them to come by or give you a call.

When you are putting all of the footage together aim to keep the content constantly changing and it is a good idea to have the testimonials throughout. Have a beginning, middle and end. People love a story!

Time To Create

 1. Find a good videographer who can edit all of your footage. He will also add the audio that you want which will include music and voiceover. You will need to give him music to fit the length of the footage. I recommend not having the music on while the testimonial are being filmed. Decide how long you want the DVD to be. Try to keep it short, rather than long. Four to five minutes are the time frame we recommend. One other word of advice, don't put any dates or time lines on the DVD. This way you can continue to use it for years.

2. Find a place to duplicate. You will need to find a duplication house. There are many out there so shop around. The price can range from a dollar to one dollar and change. The more you buy the cheaper it gets. If you can find someone who can edit and duplicate you will save more.

3. Design a label for the DVD. Create a label that will peek the interest of the client. Try not to make it too busy. Include your contact information on it

4. Get a case for it. It can be as simple as a paper case with the see through center or a clear jewel case. You don't really need a label for the case if you do it this way.

There you have it! The cost will vary depending on where you live. You can expect to pay about eight hundred to twelve hundred. That will include about three to five hundred copies.

The videographer who help us develop ours is a great guy and has agreed to help out Dance Teacher Web members free of charge. If you have a question and want his input he will help guide you. His name is Matt Rodriguez and you can e-mail questions to him at mattrodvideo@aol.com. He is also available for a fee in June to create one for you if you cannot find someone you are happy with.

If you would like a copy of ours send us an e-mail to steve@danceteacherweb.com and we will send you a copy.