Lights, camera… action! It’s your business’s time to shine. 2021 is the perfect opportunity to start generating video content for your marketing efforts, or to spruce up the ideas you already have. It’s never a bad idea to try new content strategies and platforms. Besides, hundreds of thousands of businesses have seen success with their video content. If you’re not sure where to start, check out these six ideas to make video content work for your business this year. 

1. Follow a Storyline

No matter the type of video content you decide to shoot, there should always be a purpose. Ask yourself—what story are you trying to tell? Even a 10-second video should have some sort of plot line. Start by mapping out your objective, and then writing a script. If you’re looking for a more organic approach, outline your objectives and outline a sequence for your video, then let your talent adlib the script. 

2. Keep it Short

Attention spans continue to decrease as more and more content makes its way in front of potential customers. The longer your video, the more dropoff you’ll have on the attention span of your audience. For an effective marketing video, consider a video that is 30 seconds to a minute long. While there are certain scenarios where more or less will be effective, stick to around a minute as a good rule of thumb.

3. Get Emotional

People connect with real people. Use a video to make an emotional appeal to your audience. Showcase the positive impact you’ve made in your community. Talk to your customers on their level. Make yourself relatable to the end-user. Telling real stories that relate to your audience on an emotional level will help establish trust and credibility with your audience.

4. Tell Your Story

Every business has a “why” behind what they do. Use video content as a means to show the heart and soul of your business. Your customers may not know why you got into the business world. When customers create personal connections, they’re more likely to keep coming back in the future. 

5. Inject Humor

They say laughter is the best medicine, and we could all use some extra smiles these days. Consider showing the funny side of your team members or coming up with a funny video advertisement. If the video is funny enough and resonates with your audience, you’ll garner more shares and potential customers will more easily remember your brand. 

6. Provide Next Steps

No matter the type of content you decide to shoot, each video should serve a purpose. You’ll want to provide next steps at the end of your video whether that be a call to action on screen or a pop up that directs to your website. Consider what action you would like your audience to take, and then keep it short, sweet and concise. 

Now that you know about different ways to use video, let it work for your business! Consider your audience and what types of content you think they’ll resonate with most. Keep it simple, keep it relatable and keep it consistent for best results. Even smartphones have the capability to shoot quality video these days, so get out there and get to directing. You’re the star of your own company.