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One of the best ways to really get your name and face out there is with video blogging, also known as vlogging. Adding video commentary to a blog will further connect you with both the Web 2.0 community and the average reader. Videos can be even more viral than written content and social media sites like Digg are finally giving videos special attention.

As a PR vlogger, however, you need to avoid certain pitfalls. After all, any kid with a bargain Webcam can start a vlog through YouTube. What you need to do is create professional, sophisticated video entries and the following five tips should help you achieve this goal.

1. Prepare Some Talking Points – Unless your strong suit is improv, you shouldn’t completely wing it in front of the camera and expect something brilliant to spring forth. Many vloggers prepare a full-blown script and that’s okay if you can deliver the words without appearing wooden. However, your best bet is to outline some interesting talking points before you begin. Content is still king, even in videos.
2. Use a Quality Camera – Production value is important to a corporate vlogger and anyone else who wants to be taken seriously with their videos. Not only is proper lighting and a professional setting crucial for the video’s outcome, you need to use a quality camera. I would recommend you use a camera with a high recording capacity of 640 by 480 pixels. Remarkablogger has more suggestions for the vlogger’s toolbox.
3. Keep it Brief – Keep your videos down to five minutes or less. No matter how fascinating you think you are, people grow bored quite easily on the Internet. If you really have more than five minutes worth of fascinating material, split the video into two parts. A “To Be Continued…” is actually a great way to hook subscribers.
4. Allow Viewers to Share – Don’t be stingy with your vlog entries. Provide an easy way for people to email the videos, as well as embed them on other sites. A viral video is exactly what you need to maximize your audience.
5. Brand Your Videos – There are a few ways to brand your vlog entries with video editing software. You can, for instance, create an opening title and other on-screen text, such as your blog’s URL on the bottom of the screen. Popular editing programs include iMovie, Final Cut Pro and Windows Movie Maker.

The principles behind a video blog entry are no different than a written blog entry. You want to provide interesting, useful information that people will want to pass along to others. If you are taking advantage of the latest social media sites, then you have no doubt viewed a few video blog entries. This medium could certainly be the next evolution for your PR blog.

eWritings thanks Heather Johnson for her contribution.

Heather Johnson is a freelance business, finance and credit writer, as well as a regular contributor for Business Credit Cards, a site for comparing best business credit cards. She welcomes questions, comments, and freelancing job inquiries at her email address heatherjohnson2323@gmail.com.