2. . "A script for a video is like a blueprint when building a house," says Edward Schlesinger, script writer, . "It will let you see what the finished product will look like before you start." In addition, "changes on paper are much easier and cheaper to do than once production starts."

3. . "What do you want people to do after they've watched your video?" asks Schlesinger. No matter how short your video is, "make it clear what you want people to do --pick up the phone, sign up online, walk through your doors. Don't throw away this opportunity to convert potential customers." (For an example of how to get your message --or call to action --across in 1:34, see Dollar Shave Club's , which was viewed over 2 million times in just over 48 hours, and is prominently featured on .

4. . "Always try to shoot in a quiet place away from machines, large crowds and traffic noise," says Rob Ciampa, vice president of Marketing at , a video marketing company and the authors of . Also, keep in mind that "putting the right [or wrong] microphone on your subject can make a big difference."

5. . "Make sure you are using all available light sources," advises Ciampa. Remember that right --or wrong --lighting "will shape the mood of your video."

6.. "A widely ignored but great way to move the needle for brands through video marketing is to integrate music," says Bryan Boettger, chief creative officer at , a digital engagement agency. Brands "should budget at least 5 percent of their video spend on professional music," he says.