Short-form video content is taking over the Internet!
We’ve mentioned before in our blog just how important this trending video content is when it comes to establishing your business’s online presence. Not only are these videos able to capture the attention of social media users who have attention spans between 8 to 12 seconds, but they are also highly engaging.
Let’s chat through some of the details around the YouTube Shorts beta launch in the U.S. and what this update means for video marketing!
So, what are YouTube Shorts?
Made popular by platforms like TikTok, short-form video content is being welcomed by other social media outlets, such as Instagram with its Reels feature, and now, YouTube with its version called Shorts.
While Short’s launch in the U.S. is still in beta testing, it includes all of the basics that TikTok offers users and creators. From a multi-segment camera to an expansive music library (just to name a few), the features allow creators to use Shorts to supplement their TikTok and other video-based content.
You can expect even more added features as the months go on. One such addition was announced by the Product Lead for YouTube Shorts, Todd Sherman. He notes, "In the coming months, we’ll launch the ability to use audio from videos across YouTube – which includes billions of videos worldwide – unlocking a new playground of creativity like never before.”
Instead of having a dedicated app for this short-form video content like TikTok, YouTube has placed these videos in a carousel format on its home page. It is important to note though, the company is considering the potential of creating a dedicated 'Shorts' tab to make these videos even more accessible.
While the format is slightly different, the influence this feature has on catching and maintain user attention is similar to what we’ve seen from TikTok and Instagram Reels. Viewers have the ability to swipe vertically from one video to the next, inviting them to watch videos they may not have chosen to click and view before!
Is this the new social media wave?
Yes, it’s a wave that’s taking over social media and it’s time that you ride it for your local business!
As different platforms join the short-form video space and new apps are being created to transform the experience, this content is continuing to prove its value in the social media marketing space.
If you are currently running a video marketing strategy to bring exposure to your business’s social media profiles, then short-form video content should be a part of it!
As YouTube states,
“Over the years, YouTube has enabled an entire generation of creators who have shared their voice and found an audience of more than two billion people. As technology advances, creators and artists can now take advantage of the incredible power of smartphones to easily create and publish high-quality content wherever they are in the world.”
It is clear to them (and us) that the evolution of video content is taking shape right before our eyes, and to stay ahead of consumer interest, even platforms like YouTube, which are known for long-form video content, need to be a part of the movement!
To keep your business relevant and up-to-date on the latest social media trends, you should consider how to best utilize this video marketing strategy for your business and industry!
Whether you're running a dental office or a clothing boutique, there are countless avenues for utilizing video content. Consider offering quick and simple tips for cleaning your teeth or feature a fun walkthrough of the latest items in your shop. Consumers are loving these simple, yet informative videos.
Final Thoughts
Video content is booming!
Now that YouTube has joined the likes of TikTok and Instagram, it’s time to address your options when it comes to creating video content for your business!
If you are searching for more video-related blogs and insights, we have you covered with these resources: