Ever wonder why your LinkedIn videos are getting about as much attention as a cat at a dog show? It’s not you; it’s probably your approach. But don't worry, with a few tweaks, your videos can start fetching more likes and views than you ever imagined.
LinkedIn has become a powerhouse for professional networking and brand building. With over 700 million users, it’s a platform ripe with opportunities. One of the most effective ways to capture attention and engage your audience is through native videos. But, like anything else, there’s a right way and a wrong way to do it.
In this guide, you will learn:
- Why LinkedIn native videos are essential for your strategy
- How to create engaging content
- Technical tips for high-quality videos
- Best practices for posting and promoting your videos
- Unique insights to set your videos apart
Why LinkedIn Native Videos Matter
Increased Engagement
LinkedIn native videos receive significantly more engagement compared to other types of posts. They can generate up to 20 times more shares than text posts, making them a crucial tool for increasing your reach and visibility.
Professional Audience
Unlike other social media platforms, LinkedIn is geared towards professionals. This means your content is more likely to be seen by decision-makers and influencers in your industry, leading to higher-quality interactions and potential business opportunities.
Algorithm Favorability
LinkedIn's algorithm favors native content, including videos. This means your native videos are more likely to appear in your followers' feeds, giving you a better chance of being seen and engaged with.
Creating Engaging Content
Know Your Audience
Understanding your audience is the first step to creating engaging content. Consider their interests, pain points, and what type of content they find valuable. Tailoring your videos to meet these needs will increase your chances of engagement.
Keep It Short and Sweet
Attention spans are short, especially on social media. Aim to keep your videos between 30 seconds to 2 minutes. This ensures your message is concise and keeps viewers engaged until the end.
Tell a Story
People love stories. Instead of just presenting information, weave it into a narrative. Whether it’s a success story, a customer testimonial, or a day in the life at your company, storytelling can make your content more relatable and memorable.
Include a Call to Action
Every video should have a clear call to action (CTA). Whether it’s visiting your website, signing up for a webinar, or simply engaging with your post, a CTA guides your viewers on what to do next.
Technical Tips for High-Quality Videos
Lighting
Good lighting is essential for high-quality videos. Natural light is ideal, but if that's not possible, use soft, diffused lighting to avoid harsh shadows and create a professional look.
Sound
Clear audio is just as important as clear video. Use an external microphone if possible, and choose a quiet location to record. Background noise can distract from your message and make your video seem unprofessional.
Editing
Editing can make or break your video. Use simple editing tools to trim unnecessary parts, add captions, and include your logo. This not only makes your video more engaging but also reinforces your brand identity.
Resolution
Aim for at least 720p resolution. Lower quality videos can appear pixelated and unprofessional, which can detract from your message. Most smartphones and cameras now support high-definition recording, so make use of these capabilities.
Best Practices for Posting and Promoting
Timing
Post your videos when your audience is most active. Generally, early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays are peak times for LinkedIn users. However, it’s important to experiment and analyze your own audience's behavior.
Engage with Your Audience
Respond to comments and engage with those who interact with your video. This not only boosts your engagement but also builds relationships with your audience, fostering a sense of community around your brand.
Use Hashtags
Relevant hashtags can increase the visibility of your videos. Use a mix of popular and niche hashtags to reach a broader audience while also targeting specific groups.
Analytics
Monitor the performance of your videos using LinkedIn's analytics tools. Pay attention to metrics like views, likes, shares, and comments. This data can help you understand what works and what doesn’t, allowing you to refine your strategy over time.
Unique Insights for Standout Videos
Behind-the-Scenes Content
People love getting a peek behind the curtain. Behind-the-scenes content can humanize your brand and make it more relatable. This could be a tour of your office, a day in the life of an employee, or a sneak peek at upcoming projects.
Expert Interviews
Interviewing experts in your industry can provide valuable insights to your audience. It also positions your brand as a thought leader. Make sure to prepare engaging questions and promote the interview in advance to maximize viewership.
User-Generated Content
Encourage your audience to create and share their own videos related to your brand. This not only increases engagement but also provides you with authentic content that can be shared on your profile.
Live Videos
LinkedIn Live is a powerful tool for real-time engagement. Use it for Q&A sessions, product launches, or webinars. Live videos can create a sense of urgency and excitement, encouraging more immediate interaction from your audience.
Conclusion
LinkedIn native videos are a powerful tool for boosting engagement, building your brand, and reaching a professional audience. By following these best practices, you can create high-quality, engaging content that stands out in the crowded LinkedIn feed. Remember to keep your videos short, tell compelling stories, and always include a clear call to action. Monitor your performance and be willing to experiment and adapt your strategy based on what works best for your audience.
FAQs
How often should I post LinkedIn native videos?
Consistency is key. Aim to post at least once a week, but focus on quality over quantity.
What type of content works best for LinkedIn videos?
Professional, informative, and engaging content works best. Think about tutorials, industry insights, and success stories.
Should I use captions in my LinkedIn videos?
Yes, always use captions. Many users watch videos without sound, and captions make your content accessible to a broader audience.
Can I use LinkedIn native videos for advertising?
Absolutely. LinkedIn offers video ads that can help you reach a wider audience and achieve specific marketing goals.
How do I measure the success of my LinkedIn videos?
Use LinkedIn's analytics tools to track views, likes, shares, and comments. Analyzing this data will help you understand what resonates with your audience.
