Your Ultimate Pre-Recording Checklist

Testing 1, 2, 3… Testing 1, 2, 3…

Have you made sure your microphone is plugged in and working? Is your lighting on point?

Is it clear who and what this video is for? Do you have an outline or script to stay focused?

There are lot of moving pieces when you’re recording video, and it can feel overwhelming when all the thoughts are swirling in your head.

So let’s get them out of your head, and write them down in a clear, structured way, creating a simple checklist (that you can download below!) to follow each time you’re getting ready to hit record.

1. Research and Planning

Start strong by setting a clear direction for your video. This is especially important if your video will be going on YouTube versus being a client-facing video.

  • Research Your Topic
    • Look up similar topics on YouTube to see what works well in your niche. Pay attention to:
      • Titles that spark curiosity (e.g., “5 Retirement Mistakes to Avoid”)
      • Thumbnails that grab attention
      • Key points or angles covered
  • Craft a Compelling Title
    • Use keywords your audience is searching for and make it clear why they should watch.
      • Example: “How to Maximize Social Security Benefits Before Retirement”
  • Outline Your Video
    • Jot down the main points you’ll cover to stay focused and avoid rambling.
    • If compliance requires a script, be sure to adhere to the advice in Step 5.

2. Engage Your Audience from the Start

The first few seconds of your video are critical to grab attention and let the viewer know whether this video is for them.

  • Create an Engaging Opening
    • Avoid generic introductions like your name or company. Instead, start with:
      • A question: “Are you worried about running out of money in retirement?”
      • A story: “One of my clients saved $50,000 in taxes by making one simple change.”
      • A promise: “In this video, you’ll learn the 3 most important steps to retire early.”
  • Speak to Your Target Audience
    • Clearly identify who the video is for.
      • Example: “If you’re a tech professional in your 40s or 50s with equity compensation, this video is for you.”

3. Content Clarity and Focus

Clarity is key to keeping your audience engaged.

  • Tailor Content to a Specific Audience
    • Focus on one group and speak directly to their unique challenges.
      • Example: Instead of “5 Financial Planning Tips,” try “5 Tax Planning Tips for Female Entrepreneurs Exiting Their Business.”
  • Provide Clear Value
    • Share the WHY instead of the HOW to avoid attracting DIYers.
      • Example: Instead of explaining how to create a bond ladder, focus on why it’s a smart strategy for creating steady retirement income.
  • Include a Call to Action (CTA):
    • End with one clear next step, such as:
      • “Download our free retirement checklist.”
      • “Schedule a consultation to review your equity compensation strategy.”

4. Technical Preparations

Nothing kills a great video like poor sound, lighting, or interruptions.

  • Test Your Equipment
    • Ensure your camera, microphone, and lighting are working perfectly – before every recording!
  • Record in a Quiet Space
    • Choose a spot free from background noise and interruptions so you can stay focused.
  • Set Up Your Background
    • Use a backdrop that reflects your personality and brand. For example, a clean, professional office or a bookshelf with personal touches works well.
    • Avoid using a fake background as it sends a subtle message that you have something to hide.

5. Presentation and Delivery

Bring your content to life with confident delivery.

  • Practice Your Script
    • Read your script out loud before recording and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it feels conversational. This will help you come across as natural and confident.
    • Most people don’t realize that we write very differently than we speak, which is why you may sound robotic and awkward reading a script you wrote.
  • Engage with the Camera
    • Smile, maintain eye contact (by looking at the lens or teleprompter), and use natural gestures.
  • Pace Yourself
    • Speak at an engaging, steady pace. Vary your tone and cadence to keep viewers interested.

6. Final Preparations

Set yourself up for a smooth recording session.

  • Dress for Success
    • Wear something that reflects you and your brand. You should show up on camera exactly how you’d show up in person. If you never wear suits, don’t wear a suit on camera.
  • Hydrate and Take Breaks
  • Stay Positive
    • Approach recording with confidence and enthusiasm—it’s contagious!

By following this pre-recording checklist, you’ll ensure that every video you create is polished, professional, and perfectly targeted to your ideal clients.

Ready to get started? Download the checklist below, then let me know if it helps!

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About Katie Braden, CFP®

Katie is an 18-year veteran in the financial planning industry who founded Advisor Video Marketing to merge her love for financial planning and the transformative power of video.

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