Live video is gaining immense popularity, whether as a Zoom presentation or a social media live stream. While some live shows need thorough preparation, others can be as simple as hitting “go live” on your phone. Remember, the best way to get started with live video is to simply start. Yes, there are many common streamer mistakes that people make, but the best way to improve is to keep creating.
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However, you don’t have to make the common streamer mistakes that both beginners and seasoned live video creators often make. Let’s explore these frequent live streaming errors so you can elevate your live videos from the get-go.
Common Streamer Mistakes and Tips for Avoiding Them
Topic Doesn't Match Audience
One common streamer mistake in live video streaming is choosing a topic that doesn’t interest your audience. Your content must be engaging and address their needs to attract and retain viewers. Unfortunately, many brands make the error of being overly self-promotional during live streams.
To avoid this, focus on topics that serve your audience. If your live stream is about your brand, aim to be authentic and educational rather than blatantly promoting your products or services. This approach will help you build trust and keep your audience engaged.
Unwanted Ads
When you’re streaming and people are watching, it’s not a good idea to have your web page filled with ads. It can damage trust and is just not desirable. You should block ads on Safari. There are dozens of Safari adblockers out there, but this list will help you find the right add-ons and apps.
Choosing the best ad blocker on Safari increases browser responsiveness, protects you from hidden hacker attacks, and prevents ads from appearing unexpectedly.
Poor Topic Research
Live streaming can be an exciting way to engage with your audience, but avoiding common pitfalls that can ruin your stream before it even begins is vital. One major streamer mistake is choosing activities you enjoy without considering if your audience wants to watch them. This can lead to viewers tuning out quickly.
Another mistake is selecting the right topic but failing to provide fresh, valuable information. Repeating what others have already said can be off-putting for your viewers. Always research existing videos and content on your chosen topic to ensure you offer something new and insightful.
Poor Quality Video and Audio
Another crucial streamer mistake to avoid is streaming poor quality video and audio. The standards for live streaming are higher than ever, and audiences won’t tolerate buffering, lagging, fuzzy images, or scratchy audio.
Research shows viewers will leave a low-quality live stream in 90 seconds or less. To keep your audience engaged, stream with clear, buffer-free video and distinct audio.
Moreover, invest in the right microphones to enhance audio quality, minimize background noise, and coach speakers to talk directly into their mics. For video, use decent camera equipment and choose your frame rate carefully. Higher frame rates can improve video quality but may strain your upload capacity.
Additionally, for high-motion events like sports, aim for 30fps or more. A frame rate as low as 15 fps for presentations or interviews with less movement can still provide a smooth image with less upload strain.
Pro-tip: Use OneStream Live Studio for full HD streaming to 45+ social destinations.
You Are Not Promoting Your Streams
Promoting your live streams helps build anticipation and engage more viewers. While it might be tempting to go live spontaneously, relying on viewers’ FOMO (fear of missing out) can backfire. Many people plan their media consumption and may not tune in if they haven’t scheduled time for it.
To maximize your audience, create awareness ahead of time. Announce your live stream well in advance so potential viewers can set aside time and prepare any questions they might have. This leads to better engagement and more meaningful interactions.
Always remember that a well-promoted live broadcast can attract a larger and more active audience.
Pro-tip: Use OneStream Live’s Event Announcement feature to build hype for your events.
You Ignore Interactivity
One reason live streams are so popular is their interactivity compared to VOD content. Imagine watching a documentary about your favorite thought leader versus a live-streamed interview with them. In a live stream, you can engage in real time, often with a chat feature where the audience can ask questions.
To make your live-stream events more interactive, consider these strategies:
- Enable a chat function and have someone manage it.
- Include audience polls.
- Show poll results or audience feedback with the media.
- Use gamification for corporate or educational events.
- Have the presenter directly address the camera.
Not all methods will suit every live-stream, but incorporating one or two can significantly enhance audience engagement.
Wrap-Up
In conclusion, it’s crucial to identify and avoid common mistakes to ensure smooth live streams. Start by categorizing these streamer mistakes into those you can control and those you can’t. For a better life streaming, you should be interactive, ensure decent broadcast quality, and don’t forget about promoting your streams.
Preparing a list of things to do in life is a good idea. Always prepare days or even weeks ahead to minimize risks and handle sudden hitches effectively.
Pro-tip: Use OneStream Live’s tools and features to avoid most of these streamer mistakes.
OneStream Live is a cloud-based live streaming solution to create, schedule, and multistream professional-looking live streams across 45+ social media platforms and the web simultaneously. For content-related queries and feedback, write to us at [email protected]. You’re also welcome to Write for Us!
