In the last few years, the benefits of creating video content have become more and more evident. It is safe to say that there is no other type of content that has quite the same reach or effectiveness as videos.
A big part of the reason videos are so powerful is the fact that they are able to engage viewers. But not all video content is equal on that front, and you need to take steps to make sure the content that you create is engaging:
1. Aim to hook viewers within the first few seconds
In every video, your first goal should be to get viewers interested enough that they’re willing to stay and watch more. The average time that you have to do that isn’t long, and typically viewers will only spend 8 to 10 seconds watching a video before they make their decision.
The exact method that you use to hook viewers can vary. In some cases, you may want to open with a shocking statement, outline the benefits of the video, or even quote a good statistic. It really depends on the type of video and the topic that it covers.
2. Try to keep it short and concise
Short videos are generally able to retain more viewers all the way to the end as less of them get bored or distracted and stop watching. That helps them to be more engaging, and you should try to keep your videos as short as you can.
The exact duration that you should aim for when creating videos can vary. Social media videos are best as short clips that are under a minute, whereas YouTube videos can afford to be 2-3 minutes or more. At the end of the day, the type of video and the audience that is watching it can play a part as well.
Instead of getting caught up in a specific number, it would be best to focus on creating videos that are specific and concise. That should let you keep them short, and allow you to retain more viewers.
3. Produce live video content
Live videos are all the rage at the moment, and for good reason: They are able to provide higher engagement levels than conventional videos.
That is something that you should look to take advantage of by producing live video content. When you do publish live videos you may want to save or rip video from a website, edit it a little and publish it as other types of video content later on.
4. Make it as visual as possible
Throughout your video content, you should always look for ways that you can deliver information and the overall message visually. Do not rely too heavily on the voiceover or text elements, and instead try to find creative ways that you can ‘show’ the information to viewers.
The unique visual nature of videos is a big part of what makes it so engaging, and you should always try to leverage that in your video content. By focusing on the visuals to deliver information, you will make it more interesting and easier to absorb.
By using these tips you should be able to take advantage of the potential of videos and use them to engage more of your viewers.
That being said you shouldn’t expect stunning results overnight. As you start to apply the tips you should see some improvement, but it will take time and iteration for you to figure out what your audience responds to.
That is why it is important to not only improve your videos but track how viewers respond to them and analyze that data so you can improve them further.