Foolproof Guidance for Creating Video Ads That Stand Out

If you have been paying attention to Mindy’s Monthly Marketing Tips, our March episode discusses the importance of video ads and how to make them stand out. Video is one of the most engaging forms of media to date, and 91% of consumers say that they want more online video content from brands.

So, what are the best practices for video content?

First and foremost, the first few seconds of your video are crucial. You need to hook your viewers and get them to watch the rest of your ad. A powerful statement, an opening question, or starting a story are all great ways to capture someone’s attention. It’s also important to include your brand logo within the first three seconds, so viewers remember who the ad is from. With consumers’ attention in high demand, it’s important to utilize eye-catching graphics in the first few seconds of your video.

Catch their attention, and then keep it!

Once you’ve captured someone’s attention, it’s important to keep it going for as long as possible. Generally, it’s recommended that advertisers keep their ads between 15 and 30 seconds. Short-form video content is the most engaging for 66% of consumers. Therefore, it’s good practice to pack as much information into a short ad as possible. However, long-form video ads have their place too. It’s all about optimizing for the platform on which you plan to post your ad.

Optimize the video for the platform you put it on.

Customizing your videos for where you plan on placing them is essential. For example, if you’re posting on social media, ensure the video is square or vertical, add captions for viewers who may not be able to watch with sound, and keep in mind the audience and culture of the platform. If you’re posting on YouTube, optimize your video for SEO by including relevant keywords in your title, description, and tags.

Be a storyteller.

When creating video ads, it’s important to keep in mind that you’re telling a story about your brand. Your video content should be engaging, informative, and inspire viewers to take action.

Here are some additional tips to create great video ads.

1. Show, don’t tell: Use visuals to tell your story rather than just talking about it. This will help viewers remember your message better.
2. Keep it simple: Don’t try to cram too much information into your ad. Focus on one or two key messages that you want viewers to remember.
3. Use humor: Humor can be a great way to make your ad memorable and engaging. However, use it sparingly and make sure it’s appropriate for your audience.
4. Make it emotional: People remember ads that evoke emotions. Whether it’s happiness, sadness, or anger, use emotions to create a connection with your audience.
5. Have a clear call to action: At the end of your ad, tell viewers what you want them to do next. Whether it’s to visit your website or follow you on social media, make it clear and easy to do.

In conclusion, video ads are a powerful tool to grow your business’s online presence. By following these best practices, you can create video ads that stand out from the crowd and capture viewers’ attention. Remember to create a story and keep it engaging, keep it short and sweet, and customize your video for the platform you plan on posting it on. Start creating and see the great return on investment for your marketing efforts!