How to Write a Corporate Video Brief: A Practical Checklist

Rachel & Simon Burridge

3 days ago

2 min read

A useful corporate video starts with a clear brief. You do not need a script, technical knowledge or a long document: you need a shared understanding of what the film should achieve.

At Cherrywood Productions in Rochester, Kent, we create corporate films, interviews and promotional content. Here is a practical way to organise your ideas before discussing a production.

1. Choose one main purpose

Start with the change you want the video to make. Are you introducing your business, explaining a service, supporting recruitment or documenting an event? A film trying to do everything can leave viewers unsure what matters.

Write one sentence: “After watching this film, we want our audience to…” Then finish it with a clear action, such as enquire about a service, understand a process or visit a relevant page.

2. Describe the audience and where they will watch

A homepage visitor needs different information from a customer who already knows your company. Tell your production team who the film is for, what they already understand and the question they need answered.

List the intended channels too: your website, a presentation, LinkedIn or other social platforms. Discuss landscape, portrait and shorter versions before filming so important shots can be planned for each format.

3. Set out the essential message

Choose three points the audience should remember. Replace broad claims such as “excellent service” with specific examples your business can support: a clear process, a customer experience or a useful product demonstration.

If a customer or employee will appear, explain their role and the story they can tell. You can plan interview themes without asking people to memorise a sales pitch.

4. Share references, brand assets and practical details

Send a small selection of films you like and explain why: the pace, tone, interview style or use of graphics. References work best as a starting point for an original film that suits your own business.

Gather your logo files, brand colours, approved wording and any existing photography. Note the filming location, access arrangements, available contributors and any dates when normal operations must continue undisturbed.

5. Agree the deliverables, budget and approval process

Be clear about what you need at the end: the main film, cut-down edits, subtitles, graphics, stills or additional formats. Confirm what is included in the quote, how feedback will be collected and who has final approval.

Share your budget range and the date you need the finished content. Work backwards from that deadline to allow time for planning, filming, editing and review. A single person gathering feedback from your team can help avoid conflicting changes.