Today live streaming is one of the luxuries we enjoy in a modern society and technology makes it easier than ever before due to the internet.
You may of heard that live streaming is expensive or that it might cause the attendance of your church to drop and several other rumors, however is it true?
With new live streaming available today on Facebook and Periscope, you need to understand the power of live streaming and how it can transform your live event.
5 Live Streaming Myths
As the world becomes more digital, many people live stream as a way to convey content to others over the internet. However, despite its popularity, many misconceptions surround live streaming. This article addresses these misconceptions by providing insights
You do not have to be a media conglomerate to enjoy the benefits that live streaming can bring to your event or church service. No matter the size of your event (a small concert, business event, sermon, and more) you can increase its value through live streaming.
Livestreaming today increases the exposure of your event due to social media and the large online presence of viewers that now tune to the internet for video content.
Especially if you have the ability to simultaneously broadcast to Facebook, Periscope, and YouTube. This allows your followers and friends to check it out as well. Overall, livestreaming can significantly up the value of your small event.
2) Livestreaming will decrease in person attendance
Why would someone attend in person if they can watch it online? This is a common fear that many have when it comes to streaming online. However, the opposite is true. According to Digitell, 30% of people who watch an online event will attend the event in person the next year.
Enormous events like Coachella have seen this take place. It used to take them 3 days to sell out their event, but after they started livestreaming the previous years festival through YouTube it only took them 3 hours to sell out!!
3) It’s Expensive and too Technical
This is a common fear that many have; that they will need a technical guru to get their live event streaming online. However, with tools like TVStartups “Channel Manager” you have all the tools in one place with tech support to get you up quickly. Just one online toolbox and that’s all you need. You can be up and running for around $100.
4) Nobody is Going to Watch
If you have any presence at all on social media, then it is highly unlikely that no one is going to watch. If you are consistent and are clear about when you will be going live, social media is almost a guaranteed success to help you draw in an audience.
According to Facebook, users who watch live videos will watch them 3 times as long and comment 10 times more than a recorded video. That is much more engagement than a standard post.
A few strategies to keep in mind to increase the amount of views are to give your viewers a behind the scenes look for loyal fans, partner with others that have large followings on social media and invite them in as a special speaker, and include a Question and Answer series during the live broadcast to get more people involved.
5) When the Event is Over the Value of the Video drops
What’s fantastic about live video is that when it’s done, you have a VOD to include on your Internet TV network and your social media pages. You can also re-purpose it for marketing and teaser videos.
A study done by Unruly showed that even a recorded video increased purchase intent by 97% and brand association by more than 135%. It will also help increase the actual attendance of your next live broadcast.
Now that these myths are busted, it’s clear that live streaming is an accessible, cost-effective, and impactful way to connect with audiences.
Whether you’re hosting a corporate seminar, launching a product, or celebrating a special occasion, live streaming can amplify your reach and engagement.
Start small, experiment with different formats, and focus on delivering value to your audience. The possibilities are endless—and the rewards can be game-changing.
Don’t let myths hold you back; embrace the potential of live streaming today!