Instagram and other social media platforms are famous for being extremely competitive. And it’s becoming harder and harder to cut through the noise and reach out to your audience.
Even so, it seems that video posts could be your secret weapon. After all, statistics show that video content can boost Instagram engagement rates and increase conversions.
So, how can you make the most of this opportunity? Let’s check out some of the benefits of using video posts as well as some tricks for improving Instagram engagement rates.
The Importance of Video Content in Digital Marketing
A picture says a thousand words, but video is still king when it comes to digital marketing. The metrics leave no room for doubt – video performs better than blog posts or images.
But how do we know that?
Well, the advertising industry is mostly based on trial-and-error. In other words, we see what works and what doesn’t. If something delivers promising results, we implement it permanently.
Recent studies have shown that 81% of marketers rely on videos in their campaigns.
Video is a must-have in this day and age. If you are a business owner, don’t hesitate to invest in a comprehensive video marketing strategy. It will be worth it!
The Influence of Instagram Video Posts
When it comes to Instagram, in particular, video posts are much more useful than other forms of content. To be precise, Instagram video posts generate twice the engagement that photos get on the platform!
Sounds impressive? That’s because it is.
On average, 50% of video posts on Instagram will receive a minimum of four comments!
Of course, interaction with the audience is crucial for increasing your customer base. The more likes and comments you have, the more visibility your brand will receive.
In other words, video posts can boost brand awareness and introduce you to the world. For that reason, you should start thinking about video posts as a necessity, not as a luxury.
After all, you only need a working smartphone to capture engaging and captivating stories for your video posts on Instagram.
With that said, here are some of the types of videos you can post on this social media platform.
Types of Video Posts on Instagram
As you already know, Instagram is a gold mine, and the frantic gold rush is well underway. Thus, it is essential to stay ahead of the competition and use every weapon at your disposal.
Well, Instagram provides influencers with a wide range of tools to deliver their message and promote brands.
For instance, there are four categories of video posts you can publish on this platform.
First, we have the ‘standard’ video feed posts, which first appeared back in 2013. Nowadays, the duration of these posts is no longer restricted to 15 seconds. Instead, you can post videos that range from three to 60 seconds.
Besides these posts, Instagram also enables Stories, as well as Live video and IGTV.
All of these can be excellent tools for aspiring influencers. Make sure to incorporate them into your strategy at every opportunity.
What Should Be the Purpose of Your Video Posts on Instagram?
Of course, the ultimate goal of any marketing campaign is to increase conversions and improve revenue. At the same time, sub-goals can be equally important.
For instance, video posts on Instagram can allow you to tell a unique story. What’s more, it’s imperative that you find an original voice and that you stick to your aesthetic vision.
By doing so, video content can help you promote a campaign and build brand trust. Also, you could use it to educate the audience and convey all sorts of information.
The bottom line is that video can improve Instagram engagement rates, which are notorious for playing hard to get. For example, statistics say that the average engagement rate on Instagram is 4.7%.
At the same time, 80% of businesses admit that the Instagram engagement rate is their number one metric on this platform.
What that said, here are the essential tactics for posting jaw-dropping videos on Instagram.
Tips for Creating High-Quality Video Posts
When it comes to video feed posts on Instagram, the first few seconds will make or break the deal. In other words, you need to grab the attention of the viewer within the first three to five seconds. So, make sure to start strong!
Likewise, the importance of an eye-catching cover photo cannot be stressed enough!
If you avoid looking like an ad, people might click on the video in the first place. Thus, pick a stellar image and make it pop!
Speaking of being stellar, we should also mention that a plethora of apps can enhance the quality of your video content.
A wide array of filters can polish the video, but you can also use apps to add the brand logo.
The use of hashtags is a hot topic in the Instagram community, but it seems that “less is better” in this case. Therefore, keep it simple and don’t go overboard with the tags.
As a rule of thumb, one to three hashtags will be more than enough, and you should never add more than five of them.
Last but not least, you should always remember to optimize the video for silent viewing.
As we all know, people often check out their Instagram feed in crowded places. Meaning, the sound will be off, and that is why subtitles and easy-to-understand messages are imperative.
Conclusion
The chase for higher Instagram engagement rates can be an exhilarating experience. Nonetheless, it doesn’t hurt to use a few shortcuts and get to your goals ahead of the competition.
So, consider using some of these guidelines next time you create an Instagram marketing strategy.