Websites and blogs often encourage readers to sign up, post comments, and participate in other ways. It has traditionally been done through text. You see a line at the top or bottom of the page, with a link.
But here is a twist. Forward Together, the blog of former Virginia governor Mark Warner, has a dynamic new way of getting a reader’s attention. When you arrive at the blog, a quick video of Warner appears. Its not a pop-up or a file that has to load. He’s right there, and he’s talking to YOU! Its a full motion, 3-D image of Warner.
Obviously, vlogs have been around for a little while now, but Warner’s video is a unique package. For political purposes, it gives visitors to the blog a real life image of Warner. He’s a person, not just some political figure. For blogging purposes, it promotes involvement. Warner is asking you personally to participate.
Now, I’m not sure there will be video of me on Blogger Relations anytime soon. However, with video technologies becoming ever easier to incorporate, multimedia blogging is chance to build better connections to the online community.