Tips for an outstanding intro video

Standing out is sometimes not an easy task, especially if the language you teach is very popular among Verbling teachers. 

In this article, we have collated some introduction videos that illustrate points that may help you attract students and come up with ideas for your own :). 

SHOWCASE YOUR CREATIVITY

Elizabeth has chosen to show a social situation many potential students can identify with and it generates interest. It makes you want to continue watching to understand what she is trying to achieve by opening her intro video with this scene. 

Other aspects you might want to consider:

• Subtitles in English
• Well-structured
• Briefly discusses her background and experience
• Targets a particular group of students by mentioning she has vast experience teaching English to Spanish native speakers
• Mentions her proficiency in Spanish
• Clear and visual indication to what her trial lessons entail and the type of lessons she delivers
• Encourages students to message her

Bianca uses her creativity to draw the student’s attention and has included footage of her delivering a lesson. 

She also mentions and uses a unique trait, which is the fact that she is also an actress. This could attract students interested in film, English for drama, or presentation skills (for more on this area, please visit Personal Branding for Teachers).

DISCUSS YOUR APPROACH

Mark specializes in IELTS preparation and shows some of his resources and techniques. Moreover, he discusses how he deals with the different exam papers, which gives students a feel for what to expect from his lessons.

Matthew justifies his teaching methodology by discussing his own experience learning a foreign language. We believe it is important to let students know why us teachers do things the way we do and what the objective is.

Kyle includes a clear and visual mention to the type of lessons he offers.

Other aspects you might want to consider:

• Good lighting
• Good quality video and audio
• Subtitles in English
• Briefly introduces himself and discusses his experience and specialization
• Mentions what to expect from his first lesson
• Invites potential students to check his profiles and ask any questions they might have

FIND ALTERNATIVES THAT WORK FOR YOU

Although Ashley’s video does not include subtitles, she has added key concepts to help potential students follow.

To guarantee the focus is on her and on the message she’s conveying, Rachel has blurred her background.

Among other student types, Barika teaches children. Although her intro video includes information only parents would appreciate and consider, she makes great use of age appropriate gestures and emotions to help children become interested in her as their teacher.

DELIVER AN EFFECTIVE DEMO LESSON

Elizabeth’s intro video includes a short but effective demo lesson. It is not over-rehearsed and she even gives her fictitious student homework.

REASSURE STUDENTS

Sarah comes across natural. She smiles throughout the video, reassures students and puts them at ease (“Don’t worry. You’re in good hands!”, “Most important of all, I don’t want you to stress about English. I can help you, I will help you and everything is going to be OK”). 

The last bit is also a very nice and original touch.

Thank you very much to all the teachers who have agreed to share their videos in this article!