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I’m always looking for ways to make my site stand out.

So for the past month, I’ve been researching software that will allow me to create screencast tutorials for my website.

In case you’re unaware, screencasting is the process of recording actions on your computer screen and publishing the recording in a video format.

Since I have a site that teaches people how to create and manage their websites, I figured this could go over well with my audience.

I’ve even received a few emails requesting this.

Not only is screencasting great for teaching, but if you happen to promote any kind of computer-based product on your site, you can demonstrate it and publish the video for your audience to preview.

I did this for Site Build It!. Using a screencast video, I walk my visitor through my personal SBI! account so they can see how it works.

Check out my SBI! screencast video here.

Not only does the video provide an in-depth preview of the product, but it helps build credibility because I am showing how I use the product. I even let you take a peek at my traffic stats.

Choosing Screencasting Software

The first software I tried was Camstudio. Even though it’s free and easy to use, you definitely get what don’t pay for.

I knew that if I wanted my videos to look professional, I needed to invest in more advanced software. So I downloaded Camtasia. They offer a free, 30-day trial.

Some companies only let you use a limited version of their software when they offer a free trial, but the folks over at TechSmith let you demo the full version.

I was so pleased with Camtasia’s ease of use and range of options that I purchased a license after only one day of using it.

If $299 is too steep for your budget, there are a variety of other solutions. As I mentioned earlier, you can try Camstudio (free) and this blog has a nice review of other software options.

Don’t forget you can try Camtasia for for 30 days at no charge, so why not create as many videos as you can in that 30-day trial period!

Publishing is a Snap

With Camtasia, you can create a video for a variety of media – the web, iPod, blog, or a CD.

And what’s even better is Camtasia provides you with the HTML code you need to paste into your blog or web page.

All you do is upload the video file to your web server, paste the provided code into your page and you’re video is ready for viewing.

You can also choose from a variety of video file formats – SWF (Flash), WMV, AVI, etc.

How Can You Use Screencasting?

You don’t have to have a site about web development to take advantage of screencasting.

Let’s say your site teaches people about financial planning. You could walk your visitor through the process of using QuickBooks or some other financial software.

Or if you have a site that offers advice on public speaking or giving presentations, you can show them how to create the perfect PowerPoint presentation.

The possibilities are endless, and if you put some thought into this, I bet you can come up with a way to make this work for your audience.

Remember, most sites still do not use video, so if you can be one of the few in your niche, you can really get a leg up on your competition.

I just logged into my YouTube account today and noticed my videos have handy little “Add to MySpace and Facebook” buttons below them.

Now anyone who likes your mini flick can post it on two of the most popular social networking sites with greater ease.

I’ve toyed with using another video hosting service because I’d like to have more control over the playback options.

However, it’s hard to give up on YouTube considering the benefits…

More Traffic

Since I started making YouTube videos in August 2007, I’ve received an explosion of traffic to my sites. Almost every day I get an email from at least one person who has recently viewed my videos.

Not to mention you can now add hyperlinks to your description so people can click over to your site from YouTube in a snap.

The viral benefits are the best. Look how simple it is for anyone to embed your video into their site or blog. YouTube makes it ridiculously easy to spread your message around the Web for free.

If you’re struggling with traffic, you might want to tap into the video market and see if you can generate some interest to your site.

Videos don’t have to be elaborate or professionally done. Just presentable. It’s like writing content in a sense. Provide useful, relevant information to your target audience, only with video.

Google Owns YouTube

As I wrote in a recent post, why wouldn’t you want to make use of as many Google tools while they are dominating the Web in search and other Webmaster arenas?

Don’t you think Google is keeping tabs on the YouTube channels with lots subscribers and number of video views? Especially since you can list your website address in your channel.

Yup… I believe it all links up.

Video Sells

One of the biggest challenges of marketing online is trust. People want to know they can trust you before they buy. Video is an excellent way to help your audience get to know, trust and like you.

Get Ahead of The Game

While video is getting more popular, most Webmasters still don’t use it. So those who are, have an extreme advantage right now.

I definitely believe video will become the standard in years to come, so if you haven’t jumped on the bandwagon, it’s time to start considering it.

It’s Easy

If you’re worried about the technicalities of video, don’t. Uploading videos to YouTube couldn’t be easier. The only tools I use are my camera (Sony HD) and Windows Movie Maker (free with XP and Vista).

Don’t put off using video any longer. Get yourself a piece of the viral traffic storm YouTube can bring.