Mastering Content Usage for Live Streams: Best Practices and Etiquette

Introduction

Live streaming has become a powerful tool for engaging audiences in real-time. Whether you're hosting or featuring guests, understanding the nuances of content usage before, during, and after a live stream is crucial. This article explores best practices and etiquette to ensure a seamless and engaging experience for everyone involved.

Being seen, heard and remembered goes deeper than you may think. I'll admit, I'm learning here as well now that I consider myself a content creator. Let's take a closer look.

Leading Up to the Live Stream

Preparation and Planning:

• Define Your Goals: Establish clear objectives for your live stream, such as audience engagement or brand promotion.
• Choose Your Platform: Select the right platform based on your target audience, like YouTube Live, LinkedIn? Facebook Live, or Instagram Live.
• Promote Your Stream: Utilize social media, email newsletters, and community posts to build anticipation.
• Content Planning: Develop a detailed outline or script, including key talking points and interactive segments.

During the Live Stream

Hosting Experience:

• Engage with Your Audience: Interact through live chat, Q&A sessions, and polls. Acknowledge comments to make viewers feel involved.
• Maintain Professionalism: Ensure high-quality audio and video. Test equipment beforehand to avoid technical issues.
• Content Delivery: Stick to your script but remain flexible to adapt to live interactions. Keep the energy high and content engaging.

Guest Experience:

• Preparation: Brief guests on the format and flow. Provide key points and questions in advance.
• Interaction: Encourage guests to share insights and engage with the audience. Ensure they feel comfortable and valued.
• Technical Support: Assist guests with technical setup, such as camera positioning and audio checks.

Post Live Stream

Content Repurposing:

• Save and Edit: Record the live stream and edit it into shorter clips for social media and blog posts. Special shout out to Amolia Gardner & Zakia Ringgold who demonstrated this so eloquently last week when I shared the panel on one of Keith Keller 's audio events.
• Analyze Performance: Review analytics to understand viewer engagement and feedback.
• Follow-Up: Send thank-you messages to guests and viewers. Share highlights and key takeaways.

Content Etiquette

Do's and Don'ts:

• Do: Promote your stream respectfully, interact with your audience, and maintain professionalism.
• Do: Show your gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to guest speak.
• Don't: Spam followers with excessive promotions, ignore viewer comments, or use offensive language.
• Don't: Forget the importance of your underlying purpose as a guest, being seen, heard and remembered. So be sure to circle back privately or publicly to share your appreciation and gratitude

Conclusion

By following these best practices and content etiquette, you can create a successful and engaging live stream experience. Remember, preparation and interaction are key to making your live stream memorable for both hosts and guests.