Short-form video content like Reels on Instagram and Shorts on YouTube is exploding. Social media feeds today are dominated by quick snackable videos meant to entertain and engage in seconds.
For marketers, mastering short video storytelling is essential to cut through the noise. But cramming your message into mere moments requires strategy.
In this post, we’ll explore best practices to create compelling Reels and other short-form videos that viewers love to watch and share. Let’s dive in!
Hook With an Eye-Catching Opening
You have mere moments to grab attention. Lead with a dynamic visual hook that creates intrigue and signals the content theme.
Some ideas include:
- Showcasing your product in action
- Zooming in on an interesting texture/design
- An employee waving or dancing
- Conveying emotion through someone’s face
- A striking data headline or stat
Think visual impact and energy in under 5 seconds to generate instant curiosity.
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Share Quick Bite-Sized Tips and Hacks
Informative how-to content resonates when condensed into easily digestible tips and hacks. Teach something small but novel and useful.
For example:
- A mini recipe or cooking technique
- A quick office productivity hack
- A beauty or fashion styling trick
- A simple science experiment
- A travel packing tip
Reduce topics down to their essence for dynamic microlearning moments.
Leverage Humor and Personality
Injecting humor makes serious brands more relatable. Find lighthearted ways to showcase your culture and personality.
Some ideas:
- Staff dancing badly or having fun
- Playful demonstrations of your product
- Funny meme references
- A silly office moment or blooper
- Edit in emojis, GIFs, or stickers
According to Oberlo, 72% of consumers want to see more humor in marketing. Don’t be afraid to tickle their funny bone.
Highlight Customer Stories
User-generated content brings authenticity. Capture Reels of real customers interacting with your product or brand experience.
For example:
- Someone reacting joyfully to an unboxing
- Clients discussing how your services solved their problems
- Customers using your product creatively in unexpected ways
Their stories come across as genuine vs. self-promotion.
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Go Behind the Scenes
Give viewers insider access to what goes on behind the curtain. Capture the making of processes, daily operations or company culture moments.
Ideas include:
- Product development or manufacturing
- Employees prepping for a launch or event
- Office antics, celebrations, and traditions
- Community service outings
- Conference and trade show B-roll
This inside access feels like exclusive, members-only content.
Collaborate with Brand Ambassadors
Partner with influencer brand ambassadors to expand your reach. Lend them products to feature in sponsored Reels showcasing usage.
According to Influencer Marketing Hub, 92% of consumers trust an influencer more than an ad or celebrity endorsement. Their organic promotion packs a punch.
Strategically Design each Scene
Carefully compose each shot. Use close-up camera angles and movement to add dynamics. Change setups frequently to sustain interest.
Avoid long static scenes. Maintain quick cuts and transitions. This visual variety keeps energy high and audiences engaged.
Streamline Messaging
With limited time, each moment must convey value. Boil down key messages into simple snippets layered between clips.
Some best practices:
- Focus on one core idea or theme
- Use large easy-to-read text
- Speak concisely in short phrases
- Repeat your CTA verbally and visually
- Say more with less through razor-sharp messaging finesse.
Hook, Teach, Inspire, Entertain
Reels and short-form videos allow you to connect with audiences in mere seconds when executed strategically.
As consumer viewing habits shift, honing this skill becomes critical for brands. Take the first step by trying out some of the tactics in this post.
Want to stay on top of the latest trends, tips, and best practices across social media marketing and video content? Be sure to check out Pingtalks. We cover the most important news, strategies and developments related to digital marketing and social media – including maximizing emerging formats like short-form video.
