Script or No Script? Finding the Right Format for Your Business Video

If you’ve ever asked while making a video for your business, “Should we script this video or just speak freely?” You’re asking the right question. Some messages need structure, others need heart, and the format you choose influences how your audience responds.

At Grizzly Bear Media, we’ve worked with clients across all industries and helped them turn vague ideas into clear, confident messages. We also help them choose the right approach so their content feels real and connects with viewers.

In this article, we’ll look at what talking head videos are and why they’re popular. We’ll also go over how scripting helps when things need to be clear and when speaking freely feels more honest.

Read on to find out which one fits your story best.

What are Talking Heads in Film?

A talking head video is simply someone speaking directly to the camera, usually from the shoulders up (often with a plain background). You’ve seen them in interviews, updates, or how-to clips. They’re easy to spot and even easier to produce.

Talking heads work so well because they feel human. You’re not watching a voiceover or a slide deck, but you’re looking someone in the eye. You can see their expressions, hear their voice, and follow their message like you’re in the room with them. For many videos for businesses, that’s exactly the kind of connection they want to build.

Here’s how talking heads work well:

• Great for expert advice: People want to hear straight from the person who knows the topic. Talking heads help build trust and make the message feel more believable.
• Simple setup: All you need is a camera, decent lighting, and someone comfortable on screen. It’s an easy format to record, even if you’re filming in a small office or home setup.
• Works across industries: From training to company updates, talking heads are flexible and easy to apply. They’re also quick to produce, making them ideal for regular content.

People tend to trust a speaker more when they can see their face in a familiar setting. One study in PLOS One found that videos filmed in comfortable spaces, such as in front of bookshelves, scored higher for trust and confidence.

That said, talking heads can feel a bit flat if the content or delivery is dull. That’s where scripting or editing tricks help keep things engaging. Let’s move on to when scripting helps sharpen the message.

When Video Script Writing Makes Sense

Scripting helps when your message needs to be clear and spot-on. If you’re explaining a service, launching a product, or talking through something legal or technical, going off the cuff usually doesn’t cut it. A script keeps your message focused so you don’t end up wandering off-topic halfway through.

A script can also help to:

• Keep your tone steady
• Cover all the important points
• Save time when editing

In our experience, a well-written script has made it easier for clients to deliver corporate messages that are clear and confident. It also helps when more than one person is speaking in the video, so everyone stays on the same page.

Pro tip: Keep your script short and simple. Break it into smaller parts so it’s easier to remember and say out loud. This works well if you’re using a script generator or pulling ideas from video script templates. It also makes filming smoother and editing quicker, since you won’t need to fix long pauses or cut out repeated takes.

Now that we’ve looked at how scripting helps, let’s look at why speaking freely sometimes works even better.

Why Unscripted Videos Feel More Real

Unscripted videos feel real because they sound natural. When someone talks without reading, their voice, expressions, and tone feel more like a real conversation. People connect with that kind of energy because it’s honest and easy to relate to.

If you want to build a personal connection with viewers, unscripted videos are a great choice. Many business owners use this style to show who they are and what they care about. They feel more open and less scripted, which helps viewers get more involved.

• Casual brand updates or social posts: Want a quick way to stay in touch with your audience? These clips are easy to film and work well for behind-the-scenes updates or short messages. They feel natural and get strong engagement on platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn.
• Candid product demos: No need to overthink it. Showing your product in action, just as it is, can be more convincing than a polished script. It gives viewers a real look at how it works and makes the benefits easier to understand.
• Personal stories from staff or customers: A true story told in someone’s own words can be powerful. These moments help humanise your brand and give your audience something they can relate to.

We’ve seen this in action. One of our clients filmed a quick product tip while walking through their warehouse. The video wasn’t planned, but it ended up getting more likes and shares than any of their polished promo videos.

If the speaker is comfortable, you only need a few talking points. Keep the tone relaxed and friendly, and let the message come through in their own words.

Bringing Your Message to Life in Your Way

The best video format depends on what you’re trying to say and how you want people to feel when they watch it. If your content is more technical or part of your regular corporate videos, using a script helps you stay clear and on-brand. But for something personal or relaxed, speaking naturally often works better.

We’ve talked about how talking heads help your message feel personal, how scripts can give structure, and why unscripted videos often feel more honest and real. You don’t always have to choose just one. Many great videos use a bit of both.

If you’re still confused which style fits your message, that’s fine. We’re here to help make it simple, so your video feels natural and says what you need it to say.