Okay, I get it. We all know that in order for our social media platforms to get more clicks, shares, and comments, we must commit to consistently creating and posting valuable videos, especially Instagram reels, so I totally understand that you’re good on that part.
However, what you may not be good on is
- a practical production plan to make it happen
- ideas for shareworthy video content
- how to easily post your videos
…until now.
Here is a clear roadmap on how to finally scratch “Up My Video Game” off your To Do List. Using the following questions as your guide, you will create compelling and attention-grabbing 30 Second videos to promote your services/products.
So, get comfy as we dig into how to make video-ing work for you – for real this time.
How Many Minutes Should My Videos Be?
The first step to making our best Instagram reels, YouTube Shorts and TikToks ever is to ensure that they aren’t lengthy. Research shows that anywhere between 30 and 60 seconds is particularly sweet because it is most effective at holding your audience’s attention.
Additionally, publishing Instagram reels and other 30-60 second social media videos have proven to earn the most attention for many entrepreneurs on social media.
Here’s why short videos truly hit the mark.
According to psychology-backed research by companies Kissmetrics and Wistia, a person’s attention span is at its peak for online videos that are 60 seconds.
Similarly, according to Gisteo, a 60-second video is basically just enough information about our product, service or expertise that lies between a short commercial and full-blown educational piece.
So, whether you end your video at 30 or 60 seconds (as long as you don’t exceed 60 seconds), you’re winning 🙂
I talked to Owner of Atlanta-based Moon The Lash Tech, Kamaria, and she has shared loads of amazing tips on how she slays Instagram reels.
Kamaria has committed to a consistent posting schedule and reaped the benefits. “On Instagram, I started off with posting pictures. I moved on to Instagram reels last summer, and twice every day, I post a reel. Say I have 4 clients today, I will post about 2 of them twice today and about the other 2 clients twice tomorrow,” she says.
“Even if there are days that you aren’t working, on social media, it is important that you still post. The more you put yourself out there the better. I say that because the way that Instagram’s algorithm works is that it will show your video to people who are interested in what you’re posting about. These people don’t have to already be your followers.”
She continues, “For example, people who don’t follow me will see my content every time I post just because they like beauty and lashes. My Instagram reels are pushed to those people because of their interests.”
“I am getting more followers now and receiving more message requests. Reels really do help grow your business because of the algorithm that will push your efforts to your audience better than just posting pictures. Instagram is spreading the word about your business either way, but the reels push it faster. About 80% of my clientele has come from having seen one of my reels.”
How Do I Get Started?
First, prepare before clicking record. To all my Procrastinating Paula’s, I know you’ll be super tempted to just wing it, but steer clear of the urge to create content without preparation. I know you’re thinking, “Who has time for this?”
However, your audience will appreciate the time you spend creating quality Instagram reels or TikTok videos that offers them the valuable information that they have been seeking. In return, over time, you’ll see an uptick in your views and engagement.
Your prep work should include these 5 Steps:
+ Brainstorm and research (if needed) at least 4 video topics each month so you can batch create and batch post for at least one month. (This will save you time in the long run!)
+ Outline your core talking points. This activity will help you to organize your thoughts.
+ Write a script for each TikTok video, Instagram reel or YouTube Shorts.
+ Gather any props that you’ll need. In each script, include when each prop will be included in the shot.
+ Prepare the location where your video(s) will take place.
What Exactly Am I Doing in My Video?
Posting videos about our businesses is all about shouting out our message effectively.
Let’s talk content. This is the most important step to conquer.
First, viewers want to get instant answers to their beauty questions. Drive more viewers to your YouTube Shorts by chatting about what interests them most. Think about all those questions that your customers ask all the time.
If you’re anything like me, you’re always moving from one task to the next, so grab your phone, open Notes and start jotting down every client question that comes to mind while you’re on the move.
Educational/ tutorial videos are a must.
“When I post more informative reels, my engagement increases. My educational videos have helped to increase my following,” Kamaria says. “I definitely want to educate more people because not many people really know how to take care of their lashes. This type of video shows that I know what I’m doing and what I’m talking about – especially with my clients.”
Get this, you will shine by simply introducing 1 pain point that you’ve observed your clients experiencing. Next, offer your audience a detailed solution to this problem. It’s that simple, I promise, so don’t over think it, Mama.
Create an easy strategy.
“I record 1 video and chop it up at different speeds, and I do that because I want the viewer to see the essence of what I do. I will slow the speed down on the reel so you can see the lashes. My client must be in good lighting, and I must catch every angle of the lashes – the top, the bottom, the sides. Another thing that helps when getting started with educational videos is to show 1 topic in each video. For me, 1 video will be about how to isolate lashes. Another video will be about why it is important to wash your lashes 3 times a week.”
Initially, give these ideas a thought: I know you’re in the loop with other beauty experts, so what is your industry talking about? Then, how can you use these industry hot topics to benefit your client while highlighting your expertise? Finally, if you need extra inspiration, scroll Insta and TikTok.
Check out the competition.
While on social, for example, check out new techniques concerning hair, nails, and/or lashes that folks are talking about right now that you can put your spin on. Then, develop your plan to teach your audience how to try your spin on these techniques from home.
Second, what are the main points for each topic? Flesh out your main points with your advice, recommendations, steps, opinions, etc.
Lastly, don’t forget to include a catchy hook to excite viewers to watch your Instagram reel. Focus on making the first few seconds captivating to grab viewers’ attention.
The hook tells people what you’re talking about in your video and why they should watch (benefits). Your hook comes before your main points. (Continue reading on the next page for more tips)
