Video has become a mainstream marketing tool. In fact, videos are predicted to make up 79% of all web traffic by 2019. Last year, live streaming video apps Periscope and Meerkat appeared, enabling every business to become its own video production facility.
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So, how can you stay on the edge of this important trend? Here are 7 ways to infuse video in your social media strategy.
Make it Snackable
Let's think about the current social media platforms that use content: Instagram, Vine, Snapchat, Twitter, and Facebook. Some of these platforms only allow clips as short as 6 seconds. Consumers want “snackable” content. The average human attention span is currently 8 seconds – one second less than that of a goldfish! Short video clips fit into people’s busy lives and short attention spans. Plus, video accounts for about 50% of mobile traffic, so short videos will often be watched on smartphones. Keep it short and fun!
Make it Flexible
Your content needs to work on multiple platforms. Instagram allows 15-second videos. But you should consider videos of up to 2 minutes on Facebook, YouTube or Vimeo. Come up with concepts that can be edited to various lengths and still make sense. That way, your content can resonate across all of your channels.
Show "How To"
People look to social media to be entertained and educated. Use "how to" videos to showcase your expertise. With apps like PicPlayPost, you can create videos as short as 6 seconds for Vine. It may not sound like much time but that's long enough to show off a new cocktail, food item, additions to your team, guest bartenders, etc.
Promote an Event
If you have a big event coming up, use a promotional video to get attention. But make sure the video is still short and has a theme that makes it sharable. Consider "shares" as the digital marketing era's word of mouth. Your message isn't intrusive if someone's friend is sharing it over their social media channels.
Reveal Something New
Have a new menu, dish, drink or bartender? Let the world know how excited you are with a quick video. Social apps like Vine, Snapchat and Periscope are fantastic tools when it comes to this marketing strategy. Instagram's video feature will also help you share news with your followers.
Video in Email Marketing
Email marketing is still very much alive and powerful, particularly because so much attention is being given to other forms of digital marketing. Include a video in your email for extra bang! But remember, keep it short: anything longer than 2 or 3 minutes will be overlooked.
LIVE Streaming Video
Use platforms like Periscope to connect your audience to your venue in real time. Have a celebrity on site? Hosting a big event? Launching a product? Stream it on social media and watch them stream through your doors.
Above all, the key to creating video that resonates is to have a strategy and a strong concept. If you plan and follow through, you're guaranteed to stand out on social media with your video in 2016.