In a world where 500 hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute, standing out isn’t just a challenge—it’s a necessity. If you’re producing video content for social media, you’re competing for attention in a crowded, noisy space. But here’s the good news: most people are doing it wrong. They’re creating content that’s forgettable, generic, and, frankly, boring. That’s your opportunity.
1. Hook Them in the First 3 Seconds
Attention spans are shorter than ever. If your video doesn’t hook viewers immediately, they’ll scroll past without a second thought. The first three seconds are critical. Here’s how to nail them:
- Start with a bold statement or question: Open with something that makes people stop and think. For example, “Most people are wasting 90% of their video budget—are you?”
- Use movement and visuals: A sudden camera zoom, a quick cut, or an eye-catching graphic can grab attention instantly.
- Show the payoff upfront: Tell viewers what they’ll get if they stick around. For example, “In the next 60 seconds, I’ll show you how to double your engagement.”
Remember, the goal is to stop the scroll. If you don’t hook them, nothing else matters.
2. Focus on One Clear Message
Too many creators try to cram multiple ideas into a single video. The result? A confusing, unfocused mess that leaves viewers disengaged. Instead, focus on one clear, compelling message per video.
- Ask yourself: What’s the ONE thing I want viewers to take away?
- Cut the fluff: If a sentence, clip, or graphic doesn’t support your main message, cut it.
- Use simple language: Don’t try to sound smart. Clarity beats complexity every time.
A focused message is easier to understand, remember, and act on. Simplicity wins.
3. Prioritise Storytelling Over Selling
People don’t watch videos to be sold to—they watch to be entertained, inspired, or educated. If your content feels like an ad, you’ve already lost. Instead, use storytelling to connect with your audience on an emotional level.
- Start with a relatable problem: Show your audience that you understand their pain points.
- Introduce a solution: Position your product, service, or idea as the hero of the story.
- End with a transformation: Show the results or benefits your audience can achieve.
For example, instead of saying, “Our software saves you time,” tell a story about how a busy entrepreneur used your software to reclaim 10 hours a week.
4. Optimise for Mobile Viewing
Over 80% of social media video content is consumed on mobile devices. If your videos aren’t optimised for mobile, you’re leaving engagement on the table. Here’s how to adapt:
- Shoot in vertical format: Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts prioritise vertical videos.
- Use large, readable text: Assume viewers are watching on a small screen without sound. Subtitles and bold captions are non-negotiable.
- Keep it fast-paced: Mobile viewers have even shorter attention spans. Use quick cuts, snappy transitions, and dynamic visuals to keep them engaged.
Mobile-first content isn’t optional—it’s essential.
5. Leverage Trends Without Losing Your Brand Identity
Jumping on trends can boost your reach, but it’s a double-edged sword. If you blindly follow trends, you risk diluting your brand. The key is to adapt trends in a way that aligns with your message and values.
- Choose trends that fit your niche: Not every trend is relevant to your audience. Be selective.
- Add your unique twist: Don’t just copy what everyone else is doing. Find a way to make the trend your own.
- Stay consistent with your brand voice: Whether it’s humour, professionalism, or inspiration, your tone should remain consistent.
Trends are tools, not strategies. Use them wisely.
6. Invest in High-Quality Audio and Visuals
You don’t need a Hollywood budget to create standout video content, but you do need to prioritise quality. Poor audio or visuals can ruin an otherwise great video.
- Upgrade your audio first: Viewers are more forgiving of mediocre visuals than bad audio. Invest in a good microphone.
- Use natural lighting: If you can’t afford professional lighting, shoot near a window during the day.
- Edit like a pro: Use tools like CapCut, Adobe Premiere, or Final Cut Pro to polish your videos. Even basic colour correction and sound balancing can make a huge difference.
Quality matters. Don’t let bad production value undermine your message.
7. Analyse and Iterate
Creating standout video content isn’t a one-and-done process. It’s an ongoing cycle of testing, learning, and improving. Here’s how to approach it:
- Track your metrics: Pay attention to watch time, engagement rate, and click-through rate. These numbers tell you what’s working and what’s not.
- Experiment with different formats: Try short-form, long-form, live videos, and everything in between. See what resonates with your audience.
- Ask for feedback: Don’t be afraid to ask your audience what they want to see more of.
The best creators are relentless iterators. Treat every video as a learning opportunity.
8. Call to Action That Converts
Every video should have a clear call to action (CTA). But here’s the thing: your CTA needs to feel natural, not forced. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make it specific: Instead of saying, “Check out our website,” say, “Click the link in the bio to download your free guide.”
- Tie it to the value of the video: If your video is about saving time, your CTA could be, “Want to save even more time? Download our free checklist.”
- Use urgency sparingly: Phrases like “limited time only” can work, but don’t overuse them or you’ll lose credibility.
A strong CTA turns passive viewers into active participants. Don’t skip it.
Producing video content that stands out isn’t about luck—it’s about strategy. By hooking viewers early, focusing on one clear message, leveraging storytelling, optimising for mobile, and constantly iterating, you can create videos that not only grab attention but also drive real results.
The social media landscape is crowded, but most creators are playing checkers while you’re playing chess. Use these strategies to rise above the noise and make your mark.
Take these insights, put them into action, and start creating video content that truly stands out.