Why Video Needs to Be Part of Your Social Media Strategy

When you think about social media marketing, you probably imagine text-based content such as tweets, Facebook posts, or LinkedIn updates. You might also picture beautifully designed images for Instagram or Pinterest.

But there is one content format that consistently outperforms all the rest: video.

If you are not using video as part of your social media strategy, you are missing one of the most powerful ways to connect with your audience, build trust, and increase your visibility. Video has become the preferred way for people to consume information online. It is engaging, easy to understand, and far more personal than text or images.

Social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok now prioritise video content. This means your posts are more likely to reach your audience and stay visible for longer. Whether you are a small business owner, digital creator, or freelancer, video can transform your marketing results.

Why Video Is So Powerful

Video is not just another marketing option. It’s one of the most effective ways to create trust, deliver value, and build a memorable brand.

Here are the main reasons every social media strategy should include video.

Video Captures Attention Instantly

Social media feeds are crowded and competitive. People scroll through hundreds of posts in just a few minutes, so you only have a few seconds to make them stop.

Video has the power to grab attention because it combines motion, sound, and visuals. It naturally draws the eye and keeps people watching longer than text or still images.

Imagine showing your product in use or demonstrating how it works. That visual experience makes a much stronger impression than a simple photograph.

According to Wyzowl’s State of Video Marketing Report, viewers retain around ninety-five percent of a message when they watch it in a video compared to only ten percent when they read it. That is why short clips, tutorials, and product demonstrations perform so well on social media.

If your engagement on social media feels low, adding consistent video content is one of the quickest ways to improve results.

Video Builds Trust and Authority

People are far more likely to buy from a brand they trust, and video helps you build that trust quickly.

When your audience can see you and hear your voice, they feel more connected. Even simple, casual videos can build authenticity and show your personality. This human connection turns passive followers into active supporters.

You do not need a high-end camera or professional editing tools to do this. Platforms like Canva and CapCut make it easy to create polished videos using templates, stock footage, and music.

If you are new to video and want a helping hand, take a look at Video Strategy for Business Growth Guide, where you will find practical steps for filming, editing, and publishing videos that grow your audience.

Video Increases Engagement and Conversions

Video consistently drives more engagement than any other type of content. Posts that include video receive significantly higher numbers of likes, comments, and shares across platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

Because these platforms prioritise video in their algorithms, your content naturally reaches more people when you use it regularly.

From a sales point of view, video also converts better. A short demonstration, testimonial, or quick behind-the-scenes clip can influence buying decisions. In fact, research from HubSpot shows that more than 70 percent of viewers say they have made a purchase after watching a brand’s video.

Whether you are promoting a product, growing your audience, or building your email list, video can significantly increase conversions.

Video Works on Every Platform

One of the biggest strengths of video is its flexibility. You can adapt it to fit any platform, audience, or goal.

Here are a few examples of how you can use it:

• YouTube tutorials that educate your audience and position you as an expert

• Instagram Reels and TikTok videos that entertain, inform, and show your brand personality

• Facebook or LinkedIn Live sessions to answer questions in real time

• Stories for daily updates or product launches

• Short video ads for promoting offers or freebies

You can also repurpose your videos across multiple platforms. A short Instagram Reel can become a YouTube Short, a TikTok clip, and even a blog post on your website. This approach saves time and gives your content a longer lifespan.

How to Get Started with Video Marketing

The good news is that you don’t need a big budget or professional experience to start creating video content. Here are some easy ways to begin:

1. Start with Simple Videos

You can begin by creating small, low-effort videos that introduce you and your business. Focus on authenticity and value rather than perfection.

Here are some ideas to get started:

• Introduce your brand and share your story

• Show a behind-the-scenes look at how you create your products or services

• Share a helpful tip or mini tutorial

• Answer frequently asked questions

• Create a time-lapse of your workday or process

If you do not want to be on camera, try slideshow videos with voiceovers or use Pexels Videos for free stock clips. Add text overlays and captions using Canva or CapCut.

2. Choose the Right Platform

Not all video platforms work the same way. If your audience prefers long-form educational content, YouTube might be the best choice. If you’re targeting a younger audience with fast-paced content, Instagram Reels and TikTok may be more effective.

Here’s a quick breakdown of where different types of video work best:

• YouTube – Great for in-depth tutorials, product reviews, and storytelling

• Instagram Reels & TikTok – Best for short, entertaining, or viral content

• Facebook & LinkedIn Live – Ideal for engaging with your audience in real time

• Stories (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn) – Useful for quick updates and behind-the-scenes content

Start with one platform that aligns with your audience and expand as you become more comfortable with video creation.

3. Keep Your Videos Short and Engaging

Attention spans are short on social media, so every second counts. The first few seconds of your video should instantly grab attention and make viewers want to keep watching.

To make your videos more engaging:

• Start with a hook that draws people in

• Keep it concise and focused

• Use subtitles so people can watch without sound

• Add light background music for energy

• End with a clear call to action, such as visiting your website or downloading a free guide

Short, value-packed videos perform better than long ones that lose focus.

4. Repurpose Your Videos

Creating video takes effort, so use each piece across multiple platforms to maximise your reach.

Here is how you can repurpose your videos effectively:

• Turn YouTube tutorials into short clips for Reels and TikTok

• Share snippets or quotes from your videos as standalone social posts

• Use video transcripts to create blog posts or email newsletters

• Extract audio for a podcast episode

• Include clips in your digital ads or landing pages

If you want an easy step-by-step resource to help you turn one video into weeks of content, check out the Content Repurposing Guide.

5. Track Your Results and Adjust Your Strategy

Once you start using video, monitor your analytics to understand what works. Each platform provides insights that can guide your content strategy.

Pay attention to metrics such as:

• Views and impressions

• Watch time and retention rates

• Likes, comments, and shares

• Clicks and conversions

Look for patterns in your top-performing videos and use those insights to create future content.

Final Thoughts

Video is one of the most important marketing tools available today. It captures attention, builds trust, and drives meaningful results.

Whether you are showcasing your products, sharing your expertise, or building a personal brand, video helps you stand out in a crowded digital space.

You do not need expensive equipment or a full production team. Start simple, stay consistent, and keep your message clear. Over time, you will build confidence and see how powerful video can be for your growth.

If you want practical tools, templates, and planners to help you plan, film, and post your videos with confidence, explore the Video Content Creator Pack. It is designed to make video creation simple, organised, and effective for any business.