Smart Questions to Ask Before a Corporate Video Project
Strong videos begin with clarity. Ask better questions and you get faster shoots, cleaner edits, and results that serve the mission. Here is a simple framework that saves time and money for Alberta teams.
Set the aim: purpose and audience
What is this video supposed to accomplish and who is it for. Awareness. Sales. Recruitment. Training. One aim per video. Speak to one audience. Length, tone, and edit choices flow from those two answers.
Shape the message: core and call to action
Define the main takeaway in one honest sentence. Then decide what viewers should do next. Visit the site. Book a call. Apply for a role. State it clearly and place it with intention near the end card and in captions.
Give references: tone and style
Share two or three examples that feel right and one that feels wrong. Use simple labels like warm, direct, cinematic, documentary. Good references prevent missed expectations.
Plan the practical: budget and resources
Be real about constraints. Location access. Subject availability. Sound control. Shooting windows. The more we can leverage what you already have, the more value we unlock. Looking for lean ideas: see how to make social clips that look good.
Write the words: script or talking points
Scripts are not always needed. Talking points often work better. Someone still owns the message. I can help shape the outline so the cut stays sharp.
Protect the finish: approvals and version control
One ownerOne decision maker gathers feedback and sends a single list per round.
Two roundsFirst round for structure. Second round for polish. Everyone knows the plan.
Nine questions I ask every time
Project brief: check these first
What is the single purpose of this video
Who is the primary audience and where will they watch it
What is the core message in one line
What is the call to action and where will it live in the cut
What tone and style references feel right for you
What budget and in house resources can we use
Do we have a script or do we prefer guided talking points
Are there example videos you like and dislike
Who gives final approval and how many rounds do we allow
Conclusion
Clarity wins. These questions protect budget, schedule, and message. Whether you hire me or someone else, ask them early and answer them honestly. Your team will thank you and your audience will stay with you to the end.
Curious how creative projects grow from a seed of an idea: see this behind the scenes build of a full AI concept from Alberta.