Interviewing for a Job

Interview tapes are among the most interesting and valuable video projects you can undertake. They record thoughts, feelings, and personalities-not just how people look or what they're doing. Interviews capture people, not just events.

Ten years ago television interviews were only for the rich and famous. Today, it's economically feasible to record interviews of ordinary people for personal, family, or business purposes. Some will prefer to do their own recording, while others will want their interviews videotaped professionally.

There are certain advantages to hiring a pro for videotaped interviews:

• The final product will look more like television and less like a home movie.
• Customers are spared the time and effort required for an amateur production.
• A professional gets the job done, overcoming procrastination.
• A professional video interview most likely will make a better gift.

These benefits are also marketing tools for selling your services.

Piggyback Logic

All the video production advertising in the world can't force a single additional wedding. But marketing can certainly create demand for your interviewing services.

The first place to look for customers is among your existing clients. For example, it's logical to offer interviews as optional extras in wedding and party packages. Anytime you're taping an event where honors are bestowed, there's an opportunity to sell an interview.

It's also useful to piggyback marketing efforts. Consider commission arrangements with professional still photographers who'll pitch your interview services to their clients.

Word-of-mouth will be your best sales aid. Watching videotaped interviews of themselves or loved ones is an experience most people find fascinating-and they'll talk about it.

Since videotaped interviews make wonderful gifts, it makes sense to offer gift certificates for your interviewing services.

Interview length can vary greatly, so it's difficult to suggest a pricing structure. Perhaps you could simply apply your customary hourly r…