Here are some fun statistics for you. Over 3 billion internet users watch video content online every month. And people spend nearly two and a half hours using social media daily. 72% of those users prefer video content, though Facebook reports that 85% watch videos with the sound off. Video content is becoming the most essential tool in your toolbox for marketing. We want to examine the types of videos, why they’re crucial, and how to maximize them for your brand.
Long Form Video Content
YouTube is being used almost exclusively for long-form video content. Streaming shows around fifteen minutes to half an hour are ideal, though some go 60 to 90 minutes, depending on the topic. They can also be repurposed into podcasts depending on the subject. Long-form videos provide a comprehensive product or service overview, allowing customers to learn more about its features and benefits. It can also build trust and credibility by showcasing thought leadership. It can boost engagement and brand recall by offering a more immersive and memorable experience. They can also tell a story, much like a blog, visually. Of course, we can’t overstate the importance of SEO, and long-from video content is better optimized for search engines.
dpeg Marketing has dipped our toes into long-form video content a few times, and we plan to do more. We began a streaming show where we recap our blog topics for the month and discuss what we’re doing as a company.
Short Videos for Social Media
While long-form videos are great for YouTube, short-form is vital on social media. We must talk about TikTok, but we’ll get to that in the next section. But short-form videos were critical to the success of online branding via social media long before the viral platform took off.
Short-from videos are essential because they are an effective way to grab the attention of social media users who scroll through their feeds quickly. They are also sharable and can go viral, allowing businesses to reach a larger audience. They are also cost-effective as they can be rapidly produced, often using a smartphone. They also tend to have higher engagement rates than images or text-based posts. They also tend to showcase personality and values, which can create a connection with the audience. And, of course, they are the most mobile-friendly way to produce content.
The Rise of TikTok
We can’t talk about short-form videos without mentioning TikTok. And we know we’re not the experts on the subject and highly encourage our clients to learn on their own for branding. We’ve written about TikTok here on the blog, including some downsides. But even if you can’t quickly pick up on the trend, reels through Instagram are a good way to increase your brand’s online visibility.
You can learn more about using TikTok for branding here.
Captions, Transcripts, and Visual Cues
Video content does have a downside, too. With an increased focus on accessibility, companies do have to recognize that video content isn’t the best format for all users. That’s why it’s essential to explore all your options. For example, an audio component is necessary for someone with low vision. For someone who may be hard of hearing, captions, and transcripts are critical. Visual cues can also help some people better identify with the content. The key is to be as accessible as possible to ensure everyone receives your message.
Do You Want to Use Video Content on Your New Website?
dpeg Marketing Company has 5 spots open for website design in 2023. We partner with tiny house, agriculture, outdoor, brewing, equine businesses, and community organizations to help them grow. We can help you optimize your site and integrate the essential tools. You can build your reputation and be recognizable with the right systems.
Contact us for a FREE consultation by emailing [email protected] or calling (828) 333-3816.