Which FCP effects are used by pros for talking head corporate videos?

Question

I'm trying to create a 'corporate' talking head web video look.
Which FCP effects are most useful for this?
On the one hand, I don't want to do effects just for the sake of doing effects, and distract from the message.
On the other hand, if it doesn't look interesting, the viewer isn't going to stick around for 30 seconds.
On the videoSellsYourMessage.com site, I've got a video on the Audio Visual tab with a race car background and sound effects along with text fade-ins and fade-outs.
Very simple and almost seems to work.
But, on the front page of that site, the abstract background just doesn't seem to cut it.
Besides needing to be re-shot with a less sleep deprived model, it's just lacking something (uh, like talent and creativity) - although the motion graphics & vocals at the end are maybe getting close?
Which FCP effects add to the message, rather than distract?
I'd love to see examples of what could be done with taking head commercial videos by a professionals using FCP.
Thanks!

Answer 1

Basically, Andy is right. Bottom line...content is king. If the message is humdrum, you're in for some real creative brainstorming.
There are so many ways to approach this challenge. What should drive your creative, is an understanding of the 'Brand' you're promoting.
Elements to consider:
Tone and Style
Color palette
Font selection
Pacing and edit flow.
What 'Promise' does the brand hold for the consumer?
Do you have access to corporate Broll or graphics that can help emphasize (sell) the message. That's the first thing I would look for. Use these to cut away from the straight up talking head.
Do you have the ability to create graphics or have someone on staff who can do this. If the corporation in question has a logo, graphics, website...you should use those elements to drive your creative choices...all chosen in order to re-inforce the 'Brand'.
Whizz-bang graphics, fast paced audio/visual cuts and vibrant colors might be great for the MTV generation, but if your product is geared towards 35-50 females, then you would tone things down. Or if the audience is 40 - 60 business types, you'd want visuals that projected confidence and stability...etc.
I don't think that answered your query, but (if you weren't already aware of the above blathering), I'm hopeful it will help guide you in your creative process.
K