With miniature cameras, easy-to-use editing software and free video sharing sites, any business can promote its product or services using video. But before you rush out to buy a Flip video camera and set up a YouTube account, think about how video would work best for your business.

If your business is engaged in something technical (such as what we do here at Spirit Telecom), video can be a terrific way to help consumers understand just what you do and how it can benefit them. But be careful about speaking in jargon and using terms or acronyms only those in your industry understand. If viewers can’t get past the first sentence, they will click away.

Your videos don’t have to be of the highest professional quality, but try your best to ensure the lighting is good and the camera is steady.

Promote your video internally and externally. Make sure your employees have seen the video and can share it with others (especially the sales staff who can send it to clients). If you use other social media tools for your business, such as Facebook and Twitter, be sure to promote the video there. Add it to your Web site and put it in the next e-mail newsletter you send to current or prospective clients.

Lastly – and probably most importantly – have fun. Think of the last video you watched on YouTube or the one your friend forwarded you. Was it stiff and boring? Probably not. Have fun with your topics and give the video a light-hearted tone – it’s much more likely to go viral and exposure your business to even more people.

Are you using video to promote your business? Let’s hear how it’s working for you. And post a link to your favorite business video.