Video content has emerged as a powerful tool, shaping the way brands communicate, engage, and resonate with their audiences. From the moments captured in short clips to the in-depth discussions in webinars, video content offers opportunities for brands to tell their stories, connect with their audiences, and drive impactful engagements.
Today, with social media platforms, video content has democratized, allowing brands of all sizes to harness its potential. Whether it’s a 15-second TikTok video or an hour-long webinar, the essence remains the same: to captivate, inform, and inspire.
So let’s explore some of the latest trends in which video content is revolutionizing the digital landscape, offering brands unique ways to amplify their voice and make meaningful connections.
1. The Rise of Short-Form Video Content
Imagine scrolling through your social media feed, and in a matter of minutes, you’ve learned a new dance, discovered a life hack, and got a quick review of a trending product. That’s short-form video content in action. It’s quick, it’s catchy, and it’s reshaping the way we consume content online.
Let’s start with TikTok. This platform burst onto the scene and quickly became the go-to place for bite-sized entertainment. From 15-second dance challenges to mini DIY tutorials, TikTok has proven that you don’t need a lot of time to make a big impact. By the way, here you can learn how to download such short videos to your device quickly.
Brands have jumped on the bandwagon, creating their own catchy content or collaborating with influencers to tap into the platform’s young and engaged audience.
Then there’s Instagram Reels, Instagram’s answer to the short-form video phenomenon. While Instagram was already a powerhouse for photos and stories, Reels added another layer, allowing users to create 15 to 30-second videos set to music, complete with a range of creative editing tools.
For brands, this meant a new way to showcase products, tell their stories, and engage with their followers in a fun and dynamic manner.
Not to be left out, YouTube introduced Shorts. Leveraging its vast user base, YouTube offered a platform for creators to share short, vertical videos. Think of it as YouTube’s way of blending its traditional long-form content with the snappy appeal of short videos, says Josh Matthew, Marketing Expert of Laptop Reviewers.
So Why Short Clips Are a Game-Changer for Brands?
The beauty of short-form content lies in its ability to deliver a message quickly and effectively. Attention spans are dwindling. These brief clips offer a golden opportunity for brands to make a lasting impression in a short window of time.
For instance, a cosmetic brand could showcase a quick makeup tutorial using their products, demonstrating both the application process and the final look in under a minute.
And…a local cafe could share a behind-the-scenes glimpse of their morning brew routine, enticing viewers with the allure of freshly brewed coffee.
The benefits are manifold:
- Engagement Boost: Short videos are easy to consume, making users more likely to engage, whether it’s through likes, shares, or comments.
- Wider Reach: Given their brevity, these videos are more likely to be watched till the end, increasing the chances of them being pushed by platform algorithms, thus reaching a broader audience.
- Versatility: From product launches to user testimonials, there’s a lot you can convey in a short clip, giving brands the flexibility to experiment and innovate.
As brands continue to adapt and evolve, these quick clips will play a pivotal role in shaping online narratives, making content more accessible, engaging, and impactful.
2. Engaging with Live Video Streams
There’s something thrilling about watching an event unfold in real-time. It’s the unpredictability, the rawness, and the genuine connection that makes live video streams a captivating experience for viewers.
And for brands, it’s an opportunity to engage with their audience on a personal level, breaking down the digital barriers and fostering a sense of community.
So what does it looks like? Jared Benoff, Head of Marketing at Destination Weddings by Vacationeeze explains with an example:
Tune into a live stream of travel vlogger “Wandering Wendy” as she stands on a cliff in Santorini, Greece. Mesmerized by the blue and white architecture, you wonder, “Which church is that?” Typing into the live chat, Wendy swiftly responds, “That’s the renowned Anastasis Church!” Moments later, she ventures inside, showing its stunning frescoes.
As the stream ends, it’s more than just a visual treat. Your curiosity was acknowledged, and you journeyed alongside Wendy. In this live exchange, you weren’t a mere observer; you actively participated in her adventure, establishing a personal bond with the vlogger and her travels.
This real-time interaction is invaluable for brands. It allows them to gauge audience reactions instantly, answer queries, and even address concerns. It’s a two-way street where both the brand and the audience benefit. The brand gets insights and feedback, while the audience feels heard and valued.
In fact, Mckinsey reported live streams are already giving 30% conversion rates, which is immensely more than traditional marketing strategies. It’s rapidly evolving, too.
So what can you post in live events? You can start with these two:
- Product Creation Sessions: Ever wondered how artisanal chocolates are made or how a potter crafts a vase? Brands are now opening their doors, virtually, to let audiences in on the creation process. It’s a brilliant way to showcase the craftsmanship, dedication, and love that goes into making a product. For the audience, it’s a chance to appreciate the product even more, knowing the story behind it.
- Webinars: While webinars have been around for a while, their importance has surged in recent times. Be it a tech company introducing a new software update or a fitness brand discussing the benefits of a particular exercise regimen, webinars offer in-depth knowledge and expertise. They position the brand as an authority in their field, building trust and credibility.
Live video streams are redefining the way brands and audiences connect. It’s no longer about polished, edited content but about real, authentic interactions.
3. The Era of Shoppable Videos
Imagine watching a video of a fashion influencer showcasing her latest summer outfits. As she twirls in a breezy sundress, a thought pops into your mind, “I’d love to have that dress!” And just as the thought forms, a little icon appears on the video.
With a simple click, you’re taken to a shopping page where you can purchase that exact dress. No searching, no fuss.
The beauty of shoppable videos lies in their seamless integration of content and commerce. Instead of passively watching a video and then having to search for a product, viewers can directly interact with the video and make purchases, adds Tiffy Cu, Travel Blogger at Asiatravelbug.
Let’s take another example. A popular chef is demonstrating a recipe, and you’re smitten by the elegant cookware he’s using. As he stirs the pot, a clickable link appears, leading you directly to a store where you can buy that very pot. It’s convenient, intuitive, and incredibly efficient.
Traditional video content is primarily about brand awareness and engagement. While these are crucial, the end goal for most brands is conversion – turning viewers into customers. Shoppable videos bridge the gap between engagement and conversion.
Take the example of RIFRUF brand, a company that sells dog shoes. They generated $50k in added revenue with the help of a shoppable video.
Here’s how you can boost ROI:
- Reduced Drop-off Rate: Often, potential customers drop off because the journey from seeing a product in a video to actually purchasing it is convoluted. Shoppable videos simplify this journey, leading to higher conversion rates.
- Data Insights: Every interaction with a shoppable video provides brands with data. Which products are getting the most clicks? At what point in the video do most viewers make a purchase? These insights help brands refine their strategies and tailor content to their audience’s preferences.
- Enhanced User Experience: For viewers, shoppable videos offer a richer, more interactive experience. So this heightened engagement often translates to brand loyalty and repeat purchases.
- Versatility: Shoppable videos aren’t restricted to any particular industry. From fashion and beauty to tech and home decor, any brand that sells products can leverage this format.
Joseph Passalacqua, CEO of Maid Sailors adds, “Shoppable videos stand out by offering value and convenience. They represent the future of e-commerce, where content and commerce coalesce to create a holistic shopping experience.”
4. Embracing Simplified Video Production
Remember the days when creating a video meant hiring a professional crew, setting up elaborate equipment, and spending hours, if not days, on post-production? Well, times have changed.
Today, the most viral videos might just be shot on a smartphone, in a bedroom, with natural lighting.
Edward Mellett, Co-founder at TestHQ says “Smartphones have revolutionized many aspects of our lives, and video production is no exception. With high-resolution cameras and advanced editing apps right at our fingertips, everyone can be a filmmaker.”
Think about the last viral video you watched. Chances are, it was shot on a phone, without any fancy equipment. For brands, this shift is liberating.
Launching a new product? Grab a phone and shoot an unboxing video. Want to share a behind-the-scenes look at your office? A smartphone and a stabilizer are all you need. This democratization of video production means that brands, regardless of their size or budget, can connect with their audience through video content.
While there’s no denying the allure of a beautifully shot, high-production video, today’s audience values authenticity just as much, if not more. They want to see the real people behind a brand, the genuine moments, and the unscripted reactions. It’s this raw, unfiltered content that resonates, builds trust, and fosters a deeper connection.
Let’s take an example. A local bakery decides to shoot a video of their morning routine, capturing the bakers kneading dough, the first batch of croissants coming out of the oven, and the barista brewing the day’s first cup of coffee. Shot on a smartphone, without any rehearsed scenes or scripted dialogues, the video gives viewers a genuine glimpse into the bakery’s world. It’s this authenticity that draws viewers in, making them feel like they’re a part of the bakery’s story.
Michael Hess, Tech Expert at Code Signing Store, adds “The move towards simplified video production is a reflection of the evolving digital landscape. As brands strive to connect with their audience, authenticity and genuine storytelling will be at the forefront, proving that sometimes, less truly is more.”
5. UGC (User-Generated Content) Videos
You’re scrolling through your social media feed, and you come across a video of someone raving about their new headphones. They’re not a celebrity, just an everyday user like you, sharing their genuine experience. Intrigued, you click on the brand’s page and find dozens of similar videos from other users. That’s how UGC works.
There’s a reason why UGC videos resonate so deeply with audiences: they’re real. These aren’t scripted endorsements or paid promotions; they’re genuine testimonials from actual users.
For viewers, this authenticity is both relatable and trustworthy. It’s one thing for a brand to tout its product’s features, but it’s entirely different when a fellow user vouches for it.
Cole Vineyard, CEO and Founder of Teach Simple, “Brands are quickly realizing the goldmine that is UGC. By showcasing real users and their experiences, they not only build credibility but also foster a sense of community. It’s a subtle yet powerful way of saying, “Look, real people love our products, and here’s their unfiltered opinion.”
For example, a skincare brand, Dieux Skin, shows not only their customers being happy with their products—but also how they use them. Watching real people achieve tangible results is far more convincing than any high-budget advertisement, explains Dr Kate Jameson, Medical Director at YouthLab.
While spontaneous UGC is fantastic, there’s also merit in collaborating with prolific UGC creators. These are individuals who have carved a niche for themselves, creating content around specific themes or products. Their videos might be reviews, tutorials, unboxings, or even comedic takes on a product.
Brands can collaborate with these creators in various ways:
- Product Trials: Sending them a product to test and review. This is a win-win as the brand gets exposure, and the creator gets content.
- Challenges and Contests: Hosting challenges where users create videos around a theme or product. This not only boosts engagement but also generates a plethora of UGC for the brand.
- Feature Collaborations: Inviting popular UGC creators to take over the brand’s social media for a day or collaborating on special edition products.
Dan Close, Founder, and CEO at House Buyers adds, “The key to successful UGC collaborations is authenticity. It’s essential that creators maintain their voice and honesty, even when collaborating with brands. Audiences can quickly spot inauthentic content, so the focus should always be on genuine experiences and opinions.”
6. Prioritizing Video SEO
You’ve spent hours crafting the perfect video for your brand. It’s engaging, informative, and visually stunning. But a week after uploading, the views are still in double digits. What went wrong? The answer might lie in three simple letters: SEO.
Just as with written content, videos need to be optimized for search engines to reach their intended audience.
Henry Lee, Digital Marketing at AI Tool Mall says, “Search engines, led by giants like Google, are constantly evolving to provide users with the best possible content in response to their queries. With the surge in video consumption, search algorithms have adapted to prioritize video content.”
So this means that when you search for a topic, you’re likely to see video results, often even above traditional text-based content.
For brands, this presents a golden opportunity.
“A well-optimized video can drive organic traffic, increase brand visibility, and position the brand as an authority in its niche. Moreover, videos tend to have a higher engagement rate, meaning viewers are more likely to watch, share, and interact with video content compared to text”, adds Steve Elliott, franchise owner of Restoration1.
So, how do you ensure your video stands out in the vast ocean of online content? Here are some actionable tips:
- Keyword Research: Just as with traditional SEO, start with keyword research. Identify what terms your target audience is searching for and incorporate these into your video title, description, and tags.
- Engaging Thumbnails: A thumbnail is the first thing a viewer sees. Make it count. An engaging, relevant thumbnail can significantly boost click-through rates.
- Transcripts and Captions: Adding transcripts and captions not only makes your video accessible but also provides search engines with more content to crawl. This can improve your video’s search visibility.
- Optimized Video Titles and Descriptions: Ensure your video title is catchy and includes your primary keyword. The description should provide a brief overview of the video content and can also include links to relevant pages or CTAs.
- Host on Multiple Platforms: While YouTube is the go-to platform for most, consider hosting your videos on other platforms like Vimeo or even your own website. This increases the avenues through which viewers can discover your content.
- Engage with Your Audience: Encourage likes, shares, and comments. Engagement metrics play a role in search rankings. Respond to comments and foster a community around your content.
- Embed Videos on Your Website: If you have relevant blog posts or articles, embed your videos there. This provides a backlink to your video and can drive additional traffic.
- Share on Social Media: Leverage your social media channels to share and promote your video content. This can drive additional views and engagement.
7. Brand Vlogging: A Personal Touch
Consumers crave genuine connections. They’re not just looking to buy a product; they’re looking to buy into a story, a vision, a brand.
This is where brand vlogging comes into play. It’s not about polished advertisements or scripted promotions; it’s about showcasing the heartbeat of a brand, the people, the processes, and the passion that drives it.
Joyce Dawson, Founder of All Day Parenting adds, “Every brand has a story, and every story has characters. Brand vlogging brings these characters to the forefront. Whether it’s the founder sharing the journey of starting the company, an employee talking about their role, or even a customer sharing their experience, these narratives humanize the brand.”
They transform a faceless corporation into a relatable entity.
For instance, a coffee brand might have a vlog where the farmers talk about the care they put into growing the beans. Hearing directly from the person who nurtured the coffee plant adds depth to every sip of the brew. It’s no longer just a cup of coffee; it’s a culmination of dedication, hard work, and passion.
One of the most popular formats in brand vlogging is the “Day in the Life” video. As the name suggests, these videos offer a glimpse into a typical day at the company. It could be a day in the life of a product designer, a store manager, or even the CEO. The aim is to showcase the real, unfiltered moments that make up the brand’s journey, says – Robert Dalton, Founder of HUALALAI.
Behind-the-scenes glimpses are another vlogging goldmine. Ever wondered how a product is made, how a campaign is shot, or how an event is organized? Behind-the-scenes vlogs answer these questions. They demystify processes, making the brand more transparent and approachable.
A cosmetic brand, for instance, might have a vlog showcasing the making of a lipstick, right from selecting the pigments to the final packaging. Watching the process makes the end product— the lipstick— feel special and unique.
Brand vlogging is about authenticity. It’s about letting the audience in, sharing the highs, the lows, and everything in between. They build trust, foster loyalty, and create a bond that goes beyond transactions, adds Brandon Armstrong, CEO of Quinable Inc.
8. Educational Video Content
We’ve all been there: staring at a product or a concept, scratching our heads, and thinking, “How does this work?” In the age of information, consumers are not just satisfied with knowing what a product is; they want to understand the hows and whys behind it.
Eric Eng, CEO & Founder of AdmissionSight, The world’s leading college admissions consulting company, adds “Educational video content, a powerful tool that brands are leveraging to inform, educate, and build lasting relationships with their audience.”
At its core, educational video content aims to provide clarity. For products, this could mean tutorials, how-to guides, or deep dives into product features, Eric added.
For instance, a tech company launching a new gadget might release a series of videos explaining its features, demonstrating its use, and even comparing it with previous models or competitors. These videos empower the consumer, allowing them to make informed decisions.
But educational content isn’t limited to just products. Brands are also using this format to share industry insights, trends, and knowledge.
A finance company, for example, might release videos explaining complex concepts like mutual funds, cryptocurrency, or tax planning. By demystifying these topics, the brand positions itself as an industry leader and a trusted source of information. But…why though?
One of the most significant benefits of educational video content is the trust it fosters. When a brand takes the effort to educate its consumers, it sends a clear message: “We care about your understanding and your experience.”
This genuine effort to add value builds credibility and trust.
Moreover, knowledge sharing also establishes the brand as an authority in its field. When consumers have a query or need information, they’re more likely to turn to a brand they associate with expertise. Over time, this trust translates to brand loyalty and advocacy.
Katie Devoe, Co-Founder & CEO at CBD Nationwide, adds “Consider a skincare brand that not only promotes its products but also educates its audience about skin health, the science behind ingredients, and the impact of lifestyle choices on skin. Such content not only helps sell products but also builds a community of informed and loyal customers.”
As consumers become more discerning and hungry for information, brands that prioritize education will stand out and thrive.
9. Exploring AI in Video Creation
Video creation has always been a blend of art and technology. But in recent years, a new player has entered the scene, promising to revolutionize the way we create and consume video content: Artificial Intelligence (AI).
From automating mundane editing tasks to generating content, AI is reshaping the video landscape, making it more efficient, personalized, and innovative.
Emily Watson, Chief of Marketing at Funky Pins, says “Gone are the days when video editing meant hours spent on sophisticated software, meticulously cutting, trimming, and adjusting. With AI-driven tools, many of these tasks are now automated.”
For instance, AI can analyze hours of footage to pick out the best shots, adjust lighting and color balance, or even stabilize shaky footage. What once took hours can now be achieved in minutes, allowing creators to focus on storytelling and content.
But AI’s capabilities don’t stop at editing. We’re now seeing tools that can generate video content. RunWay, for example.
Imagine inputting a script or a set of guidelines, and an AI tool churns out a video, complete with visuals, voiceovers, and music. While we’re still in the early stages, the potential is immense.
Brands could leverage this for quick content generation, especially for standardized videos like product descriptions or tutorials.
Here’s a glimpse into the potential future from the industry experts:
- Personalized Video Content: AI can analyze viewer preferences and behavior to create personalized video content. For instance, an e-commerce platform might generate product recommendation videos based on a user’s browsing history. – Dickson Eyenegho, PR Writer at Carifex
- Interactive Videos: Imagine watching a video and asking a question, with the video responding in real-time. AI-driven interactive videos could make this a reality, enhancing viewer engagement and experience. – Tom Andrew, Content Manager at Where to Stream
- Predictive Analysis: AI can predict video trends, helping brands stay ahead of the curve. By analyzing vast amounts of data, AI tools can offer insights into what kind of content is likely to resonate with audiences in the future. – Douglas McShane, Operations Director at Leeds First Aid Courses
- Enhanced Accessibility: AI can automatically generate captions, translations, and even descriptive audio for visually impaired viewers, making video content more accessible to a global audience. – Sumeer Kaur, Founder of Lashkaraa.com
- Cost Efficiency: As AI tools become more sophisticated, the cost of video production is likely to decrease, allowing even smaller brands to leverage high-quality video content. – Robert Herrera, President & Automotive Specialist at COR Wheels
But keep in mind that…AI is not here to replace the human touch in video creation but to enhance it. It offers tools and capabilities that allow for more efficiency, innovation, and personalization.
Conclusion
From the succinct charm of short-form content to the innovative applications of AI, brands have a plethora of tools and strategies at their disposal. But amidst these trends and technologies, two themes remain constant: authenticity and accessibility.
Ritika Asrani, Owner and Broker of Century21 St Maarten Real Estate adds, “Consumers are inundated with content, so genuine stories and connections stand out. Whether it’s through UGC videos that showcase real user experiences or vlogs that offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse, authenticity is the key to resonating with audiences.”
Follow these trends, make great videos that connect with your audience, and build a brand that withstands the test of time.
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