In the original 'Chinese proverb' the quotation “A Picture's Meaning Can Express Ten Thousand Words” has over the years been wrongly translated into “A Picture Is Worth One Thousand Words.”  Regardless of the exact quote the fact remains an image can do much that words cannot especially video images.

Speaking of videos the real Oscars will be handed out in a few days (Hurt Locker is my selection for Best Picture) here are a couple videos that attracted millions of viewers and created a viral buzz for their companies and if virtual Oscars were given out they may have won.

1. Will it Blend?
2. It’s money isn’t it?

With over 25 billion videos watched each and every month web video offers an important opportunity for businesses to connect with a wider audience and at relatively inexpensive format. Here are three reasons why business should use video on their website and in electronic marketing:

1. Videos make the content more believable since the viewer can see it in action.  This can be a new product or technical training. Through using video on your website and in electronic marketing you can demonstrate the before and after effects of your product and services and feature testimonials from your customers. This all helps lend credibility to your business which could increase your sales.
2. Video is more precise than text. Why describe something to visitors when you can show them? Videos explain or present information and products more effectively than plain text or still pictures and graphics. Visitors will be appreciative that you chose to take the more direct approach which makes them all the more likely to become engaged and take action.
3. Video can also grab the viewer’s attention. In an electronic world filled with text and pictures marketing new things a well-constructed video really stands out to consumers. It tempts them to take action on your words and it helps you build a relationship with them by adding a personal touch to your campaign

Here is a recent example of a client turning to video to share attendee and exhibitor testimonials to expand their marketing and communication efforts Trade Show Video.

So videos can make complicated and boring material an entertaining multimedia experience.  Videos can also promote shared viral marketing.  And making a video is more than just filming information.  Add a touch of humor something unique or just plain amazing as it can help create a viral hit that spreads like wildfire.  Do you remember this virtual Oscar classic Spraying Fountain?  Plus a lot of search engines push multimedia rich websites to the top of their rankings.

In the end adding videos has become an industry standard and rejecting it means throwing away potential sales opportunities.