If you’re hiring a video production for the first time, you may not be sure of what to keep an eye out for. While every company (and person!) is different, some general rules of thumb can help guide you in the right direction. While we’ve spoken about our tips on good signs, we thought it might be beneficial to show you some red flags- that way, if they pop up, you can know how to navigate the situation!
They Don’t Have A Recent Portfolio
Scenario: You’re looking for a video production company, and think you’ve found the perfect match. However, their website either doesn’t have a listed portfolio, or the one they do have is very outdated.
Potential Red Flag: If a company doesn’t have a recent (or any) portfolio, it raises a few questions. Are they returning to video production after leaving the industry for a few years, or are they just breaking into it? It’s hard to know if their style aligns with your vision if you can’t see it.
Solution: Reach out and ask! If they are new or just getting back into the field, it’s a good opportunity to ask more questions and make a potential connection. Or, it could be that they don’t list their full portfolio, but can happily send you a link.
Radio Silence
Scenario: You’ve contacted your video production company, and it’s past the typical 24-48 hour turnaround time for contact.
Potential Red Flag: We all have days when just as we’re falling asleep, we realize we never replied to an email or called someone back. While these things are a universal part of human experience, it’s not a good sign if your company repeatedly is delayed in getting back to you without explanation.
Solution: If this happens, most companies will reach out with an apology and explanation. If that’s the case- great! Mutual respect is an integral part of any working relationship, and it’s important that they take the initiative to explain what’s going on. For example, it may be their busy season, or, they may have had a personal emergency pop up.
If they haven’t reached out, it’s up to you. Whether you are looking for information or already working with them, it isn’t a bad idea to reach out to give them the opportunity to make things right. How they handle that will tell you all you need to know.
They Don’t Listen To You
Scenario: You told the company your end goal, your likes, and dislikes. They keep ignoring your requests.
Potential Red Flag: The most important thing in a video production company is that they listen to you and help make your vision a reality- this includes listening to your likes and dislikes.
Solution: How is this situation happening- are they blatantly ignoring you? If so, gently but firmly call them out. Unfortunately, some companies are more concerned with what is currently trendy- if your company is more concerned with trends than your requests, it’s not a good sign.
However, it’s a different story if they are being honest about what they can and cannot do.
If you tell your goals to a video production company, and they say, “We don’t have the capability for that, but we could do XYZ instead,” it is a sign of a respectful company with great insight.
For a list of green flags, check out our blog about things to look for when hiring a Video Production Company, and look no further than us right here at Stengel Media! We pride ourselves on being attentive, empathetic, and creative. If you give us a detailed list, we’ll make it happen. If you give us a broad idea, we’ll bring it to life. Our cinematographers have experience shooting in many different environments and styles, from documenting a special event to promoting your business! For all your video needs, we have you covered. Call us at 307-259-1867 to get started on your request today!
