Contents
Tip #1: Start with Brainstorm Tip #2: One Core Message, One Video – Laser Focus for Maximum Impact Tip #3: Matching the Right Image with Your Message Tip #4: Adapt It to Different Platforms Tip #5: Calls to Action that Guiding Viewers to the Next Step Conclusion9 min read
Have you ever try to explain something amazing to a friend, but their eyes glaze over after 30 seconds? That’s the struggle of our era: short attention spans and big ideas. But what if you could condense your message into these 30 seconds with more than just words? That’s the power of the explainer video.
It’s your chance to grab viewers and leave them wanting more, all in the time it takes to sip a shot of espresso. Here are 5 tips you can use to make it perfect.
Tip #1: Start with Brainstorm
The first step is brainstorming the core message you want to convey. Think of it as the foundation of your video.
Here are some questions to get your creative juices flowing:
- What problem does your business or product solve? Focus on a specific pain point your target audience faces.
- What makes your brand unique? Highlight your differentiating factors – what sets you apart from the competition?
- What is the ultimate benefit you offer? Clearly articulate the value proposition – why should someone choose you?
Once you have a good grasp on these key points, jot down potential video concepts. Don’t be afraid to get wild – sometimes the craziest ideas lead to the most impactful videos!
Tip #2: One Core Message, One Video – Laser Focus for Maximum Impact
Remember, you only have 30 seconds. Trying to cram everything about your brand into this short time frame is a recipe for confusion. Instead, focus on one core message. This could be explaining a specific product feature, highlighting a customer success story, or simply introducing your brand.
Think of your explainer video as a movie trailer – it should pique viewers’ interest and leave them wanting more. This focused approach allows you to delve deeper into the chosen message, making it more impactful and memorable.
Tip #3: Matching the Right Image with Your Message
Visuals are the heart and soul of any explainer video, especially in a short format. Here’s where you can get creative and tailor the visuals to your niche and target audience.
Animation is perfect for explaining complex concepts or showcasing products that are difficult to film in real-time.Here are some options:
Tech & Software
Opt for clean, modern motion graphics with a focus on data visualization and user interfaces. Sleek lines, vibrant colors, and icons that come alive to explain complex processes.
Healthcare & Education
Whiteboard animation is a classic choice, but consider alternatives like kinetic typography for a more dynamic approach. Words dance and transform on screen, highlighting key points and keeping viewers engaged.
Finance & Marketing: Explainer videos for these industries can benefit from a mix of techniques. Live-action footage can add a touch of realism, while motion graphics and text overlays keep things dynamic and informative. Consider incorporating 2D character animation with a friendly and approachable style to explain financial concepts.
Remember, the visuals should complement your message, not overshadow it. Use high-quality visuals that are consistent with your brand identity and resonate with your target audience.
Tip #4: Adapt It to Different Platforms
Fortunately, a one-size-fits-all is in the past. Different platforms demand different formats, and viewers on the go might not have 30 seconds to spare. That’s where format customization comes in – the art of adapting your explainer video to maximize engagement and conversion rates across various content sources.
What can you do then?
- Consider creating shorter cuts of your explainer video – a 15-second teaser for social media or a punchier 6-second bumper ad. Highlight the core message and end with a strong call to action to keep viewers hooked and wanting more.
- Not everyone watches videos with sound on. Subtitles are essential for accessibility and capturing viewers in noisy environments. Use clear, concise subtitles that accurately reflect the video’s narration.
Remember, customization is about understanding your target audience and the specific content source.
Tip #5: Calls to Action that Guiding Viewers to the Next Step
A strong call to action (CTA) is vital in any explainer video. It tells viewers what you want them to do after watching your video.
Here are some effective CTAs for 30-second explainers:
- Visit our website for a free trial! – Ideal for driving traffic to your website and encouraging viewers to explore further.
- Download our app today! – Perfect for promoting mobile apps and encouraging immediate action.
- Subscribe to our channel for more tips! – Great for building a loyal audience on platforms like YouTube.
- Contact us today for a free consultation! – Effective for B2B businesses to generate leads and initiate conversations.
Keep your CTA clear, concise, and easy to follow. Include a strong visual element like a button or text overlay to emphasize the call to action.
Don’t forget to keep clear, easy-to-understand structure. A well-structured explainer is more impactful. Start with a hook to grab attention—a surprising fact, a question, or a bold statement.
Follow with the main point you want to convey, and end with a strong closing that reinforces your message. This simple structure helps keep your audience engaged from start to finish.
Conclusion
Don’t reinvent the wheel! If you already have existing marketing materials like website copy or customer testimonials, consider repurposing them for your explainer video. This can save you time and resources while still creating a compelling message. By following these tips, you can create a powerful 30-second explainer video that effectively grabs attention, delivers your core message, and compels viewers to take action.
