A video pitch lets a reporter hear your expertise in your own voice. In a crowded inbox, that can be what makes them stop scrolling. You can record a video of up to 2 minutes right in the pitch form, with no separate app needed. Qwoted also adds an automatic transcript, so reporters can skim your answer or watch it in full.
New to video on Qwoted? Start with Video Messaging and Video Pitches for the step-by-step on where to find the record button. For general pitch writing tips, see Tips for Experts - Crafting a Pitch in Qwoted.
When to Use Video
Video works best when how you say something matters as much as what you say. It's especially strong for:
Showing you're a real person: Reporters are seeing more AI-generated pitches and fake expert personas, and many have become cautious about who they quote. A video recorded live in the pitch form shows there's a real, credible expert behind the pitch, in your own voice and your own words. That builds trust before the reporter even reaches out.
Guest, podcast, and speaker requests: Producers want to know how you sound and how you come across on camera before they book you.
Broadcast and video-first outlets: You show them you're camera-ready before they even ask.
Product requests: A quick demo can show what a paragraph can't.
When a reporter asks for one: If you see a video request in the thread, record one! It's a clear signal they want it.
For a quick-turnaround quote request, a strong written pitch is often enough. Video should add something, not replace a good answer.
Before You Hit Record
1) Set the scene
Light your face from the front. Sit facing a window or lamp, not with one behind you.
Put the camera at eye level. Stack a few books under your laptop if you need to.
Find a quiet room. Close the door, silence notifications, and turn off fans or loud AC if you can.
Keep the background simple. A tidy bookshelf or plain wall works great. Branded backdrops are fine if they're subtle.
2) Check your tech
Allow your browser to use your camera and microphone.
Do a 10-second test recording to check your sound and framing.
Use a stable internet connection.
3) Prep talking points, not a script
Jot down 2–3 bullet points you want to hit. Reading word for word makes you sound stiff, and reporters can tell. Talking points keep you on track and still sound like you.
How to Structure Your Video
Aim for 60–90 seconds. You have up to 2 minutes, but shorter is usually stronger.
1) The Hook (first 10–15 seconds)
Say your name, your credential, and why you're the right person for this request.
Example: "Hi [REPORTER NAME], I'm [YOUR NAME], a [CREDENTIAL] who's spent [X] years [RELEVANT EXPERIENCE]. I see this exact issue with my clients every week."
2) The Answer (45–60 seconds)
Answer the query directly. Pick your one or two strongest points and give each a concrete detail: a number, a client story, or a surprising observation. If the request has several questions, answer the most important one on video and cover the rest in your written pitch.
3) The Close (10–15 seconds)
Share your availability, and thank the reporter by name.
Example: "I'm happy to hop on a quick call or send more detail before your deadline. Thanks so much, [REPORTER NAME]!"
Make Your Video "Qwoteable"
Speak in complete, stand-alone thoughts. Reporters may pull a single line from your transcript, so each key point should make sense on its own.
Lead with your best line. Don't save the insight for the end.
Use plain language. If you wouldn't say it at dinner, don't say it on camera.
Pause between points. It makes your transcript cleaner and your delivery easier to follow.
Treat It Like an On-the-Record Interview
Reporters may use your video directly in their published content, for example by embedding it in an article or sharing it on social media. Before you record, ask yourself: Would I be comfortable seeing this published? Don't share anything confidential, and make sure what you say is accurate.
Pair It with Text (Recommended)
You can submit a video as your entire pitch, but adding a few written lines helps reporters who are skimming. A good formula:
1 sentence introducing yourself and your credentials
2–3 bullets summarizing the key points from your video
Any links or contact details you'd like included
That way, your pitch works whether the reporter watches, reads, or does both.
For PR Professionals Pitching on Behalf of Clients
At this time, PR representatives include video by uploading it as an attachment rather than recording it in the pitch form. Attached videos don't embed or play inline the way recorded videos do. A few tips:
Name the file clearly (e.g., ExpertName_OutletTopic.mp4) so the reporter knows what it is at a glance.
Summarize the video in your written pitch. Since the reporter has to open the attachment, give them a reason to.
Prep your client with the structure and setup tips above. A quick practice run makes a big difference.
Pro Tips
Move Fast: The same timing rules apply. Don't let a polished video cost you the deadline. A good video sent today beats a perfect one sent tomorrow.
One Take Is Fine: A small stumble makes you sound human. Re-record only if you lost your point.
Smile and Look at the Camera: Look at the lens, not your own image on screen. It feels like eye contact to the viewer.
Avoid Selling: Just like a written pitch, your video should help the reporter with their story, not advertise your product or services.
Tailor It: Say the reporter's name and refer to their specific request. A generic video reads as a generic pitch.
Before You Hit Submit
Run through this checklist:
My face is well lit and the camera is at eye level.
The audio is clear, with no background noise.
I introduced myself and my credentials in the first 15 seconds.
I answered the reporter's actual question with at least one specific detail.
At least one line could stand on its own as a quote.
I'm comfortable with this video being published.
I added a short written summary to go with it.
If you checked fewer than five, consider one more take!
If you have any questions, hop into the in-browser chat and our support team will walk you through it!