Lights, Camera, Action! How to Create Engaging Social Video Content for Keynote Speakers

You probably already know this, but videos are overtaking all other forms of content on social media platforms. Why? Video is dynamic, engaging, and delivers outstanding results. In fact, short-form video currently drives the highest ROI compared to other marketing trends.

There are lots of industries that should be capitalizing on this trend. But one in particular. the keynote speaking industry, has a unique opportunity to combine the popularity of video on social platforms with the core of what they do: speak in front of audiences. 

If you’re a keynote speaker, leveraging this powerful medium on social media can be a game-changer, boosting personal branding, engaging a wider audience, and significantly increasing visibility. Videos offer a glimpse into your personality that still images often can’t, making it the ultimate tool to connect with an audience.

So, how can keynote speakers create compelling social video content that resonates with their audience? Look no further — here’s your guide.

Define Your Strategy

The first step, before you create a single video, is to work on defining your strategy. Start by identifying your goals — whether it’s establishing thought leadership or motivating your viewers. Know your audience and tailor your content to their interests. Look at the metrics provided by the social media channels you produce content for, and allow that to inform audience personas that you can then tailor your video to. Choose the right social platforms based on where your target audience spends their time. Is your audience full of business professionals? Then you better be creating video content for LinkedIn. Is your messaging catered towards Gen Z? Make sure you’re on TikTok and Instagram.  Most importantly, don’t forget to go beyond just posting. Engage with your audience in the comments, on live sessions, or even create response videos.

If the thought of creating a strategy is overwhelming, don’t worry. Here at That Random Agency, we specialize in helping clients - including keynote speakers - identify the right strategy to help grow their business. Give us a shout if a custom social strategy is something you’re in need of.

Put Your Personality on Display

Guess what? Your audience comes to your social pages to learn more about YOU. Tailor your videos to showcase who you are, whether that involves documenting your personal experiences, sharing tips, or participating in trends. Don’t be afraid to stray from your usual posts, experiment with new types of videos, and personalize trends that relate to your message.

This Instagram Reel from Erica Dhawan is an amazing example of how to break away from one’s usual style, while still creating content that effectively represents her message. She took a popular trend and made it uniquely her own, even though it didn’t directly connect to her role as a motivational speaker. Instead, the post displayed a glimpse into Dhawan’s journey from a young person into the successful entrepreneur she is today. In less than 15 seconds, the audience was able to learn a little about Dhawan’s personality, see her family, and most importantly, her dedication to hard work. Who wouldn’t want to book her for their next event?

Define Your Message and Expertise

They say a picture speaks a thousand words; well, a video is worth a million. Utilize video as an opportunity to say what pictures can’t. This is your chance to share words of wisdom and establish what’s important to you. Think of it this way: video is the perfect channel to articulate your thoughts to an audience who might not have the chance to listen to you in person. Just as you would on stage, use video to share your knowledge and expertise. 

This is a great example from Mel Robbins. It’s personal and extremely representative of what she stands for. She uses video as a means to explore her thoughts on happiness in a way that a picture can’t capture entirely. 

Utilize Storytelling

As a keynote speaker, you’re an expert at storytelling on stage. Keep that same energy when you’re filming for social. What personal or industry-relevant stories can you tell to keep the audience’s attention and establish relatability? Share personal anecdotes or industry insights to make your content stand out. Just like any story, craft your videos with a clear and engaging narrative — whether through vivid language or images, be sure your storytelling keeps the audience’s attention and fosters connection.

Invest in a Sizzle Reel

One of the cornerstones of marketing yourself as a keynote speaker is to create a sizzle reel. Sizzle reels are typically short videos that highlight your skills as a keynote speaker in your natural habitat: on stage. You might be asking, “Ok, but what does a sizzle reel have to do with social media?” Well…everything! If you - or perhaps a marketing agency (hint, hint) - create a sizzle reel, it can be edited down to shorter, bite-sized videos to post on social media. Now you’ve got the biggest bang for your buck - a longer video that shows off your talents AND the ability to edit it to shorter videos that you can post on social media until the end of time.

Let’s Get Technical: Best Practices for Engaging Video Content

Now that we’ve established the foundational elements of what makes for engaging video content for keynote speakers, there are some key best practices to keep in mind during filming and editing that will make your videos shine.

Research Video Editing Tools

Video editing can seem overwhelming, especially if you’ve never done it before. We understand that not every speaker has the means to hire a marketing agency or videographer to edit videos; luckily there are lots of solutions available to make things easier on you. Video editing apps like iMovie, CapCut, and Canva are relatively easy to use and allow you the ability to create dynamic video content without having to go to film school. If you don’t want to download additional apps or deal with exporting and importing video, social media apps TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube all have editing options built right into the interface of the platform. If you don’t want to get your hands super dirty, there are also AI tools like Opus.AI that can edit videos together for you in seconds. 

Add Captions and Graphics

For videos with heavy dialogue, it’s important to add captions (and sometimes, images). This not only makes your content more attractive and accessible, but also allows for further personalization. Not to mention, many people watch videos while multitasking - at work, in meetings (the nerve!), watching their favorite television shows, etc. Do them a solid and throw some captions on your videos so they don’t have to turn up the volume. Viewer with any form of hearing loss will especially appreciate this. If you’re unsure of how to add captions, social platforms like TIkTok and Instagram have the ability to transcribe what you’re saying in the app. For those looking to get a little more creative, CapCut or Canva are great tools to add captions to videos.

For example, Molly Fletcher’s video above effectively uses captions with highlighted words and text visuals to emphasize key points. This adds to the overall visual interest of the video and makes it more engaging.

Optimize Video Length

The trick to views and engagement is simple: keep your videos short and sweet. Research shows that 66% of viewers will watch a video in its entirety if it’s less than 60 seconds long. The key to getting that coveted view is to grab the viewers’ attention within the first few seconds.

Add Music and Sound Effects

Music and sound effects are key to making your video content pop. Background music sets the tone and often keeps viewers interested. Choose tracks that match your message — lively tunes work for upbeat content and calm music are appropriate for more serious conversations. Likewise, sound effects add a fun touch to transitions or key points, but don’t let them overpower your main audio. 

Random tip: The algorithms that drive social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram love it when you use trending audio; make sure you browse the trending audio libraries in these apps to give your video the best chance of reaching a large audience.

Embrace the Power of a Strong Call to Action

Last, but certainly not least, don’t forget to include a powerful call to action (CTA) in your videos. Whether you want viewers to visit your website, sign up for your mailing list, or take advantage of a promo code, a clear and compelling CTA is a must. Remember, a good CTA turns passive viewers into active participants. 

Whether you’re working to build your personal brand, secure new leads, or just build relationships online, video content is key to your digital marketing as a keynote speaker. It might take a few practice rounds, but we have no doubt you’ll be out there creating engaging videos in no time. 

If you’re looking for help creating video content that you can post to your social media, That Random Agency is throwing an event that you NEED to attend. It’s called SPEAKR - a transformative 3-day experience to turn up the volume on your speaking career. We will do live sizzle reel and social-forward video creation, as well as provide educational and networking opportunities with the smartest folks in the keynote speaking industry. Learn more about the event here. 

May’s Biggest Memes and Trends (And What We Can Learn from Them)

May created a whirlwind of digital creativity and cultural topics, marked by major earworms and easily-recreated memes that have captivated online users. From viral TikTok challenges to thought-provoking X threads, the Internet's collective consciousness has once again demonstrated its unparalleled ability to reflect, shape, and satirize contemporary life. But why are these trendy visuals and sounds so impactful? Let’s dive into the most prominent trends and memes of May 2024 and pinpoint what it is that has us “working laaaaate” to stay trendy.

#1: Espresso by Sabrina Carpenter

In case you didn’t catch it, the end of the last paragraph was a not-so-subtle nod to everybody’s guilty pleasure song, “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter. After it dropped in early April, Carpenter’s catchy single quickly grabbed online users and morphed into a top trend over the past couple of months. Particularly notable lyrics that caught fire and proved effective came from the beginning of the second verse:

“I’m working late,

‘Cause I’m a singer

Oh, he looks so cute

Wrapped ‘round my finger.”

While it may not read as anything groundbreaking, anybody living online in 2024 will be able to tell you for years to come about the widespread effect of this catchy tune. Here are some examples of online users who included Sabrina’s song in their content:

@octopusslover8

NEW COWBOY BOOTS

♬ Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter
View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Brooklyn and Bailey (@brooklynandbailey)

Here’s why it’ll “Mountain Dew it” for your content:
  1. The obvious reason: It’s catchy AF. It’s stuck in everybody’s head and, as any content creator knows, a good trending audio increases your chances of reach and engagement. Plus, it’s easy to dance to, which tends to attract the TikTok dancers and folks with good vibes.
  2. It contains relatable lyrics (or rather easily replaceable words) that can apply to a general audience. “I’m working late… ‘cause I’m a ______” holds endless possibilities for a variety of job titles, niches, and groups.

#2: Met Gala

For a certain (rather broad) sector of Internetdom, the first Monday in May is a big deal. Every year, some of the largest names in the entertainment industry walk the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City to flaunt their elaborate designer looks in benefit of the museum’s Costume Institute.

“What does this have to do with a little ol’ content creator like me”, you ask? Everything! While the time may have passed to benefit from any red carpet memes this time around, the chuckle-inducing posts below serve as a valuable reminder to capitalize on major pop culture events like the Met Gala:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Corporate Bish (@corporatebish)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Betches Media (@betches)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Betches Media (@betches)

Here’s why red carpets are green to go:
  1. People like celebrities (even if they don’t like them). The Internet tends to flock to every major red carpet event for hot gossip, industry news, and show-stopping looks regarding the celebrities that intrigue them.
  2. People also like any chance to humanize untouchable celebs with relatable “average Joe” humor. There’s something that scratches an itch in our brains when we can find a way to relate a billionaire’s photo to our mundane, everyday problems. (It’s sad but it’s true.)

#3: King Charles Portrait Reveal

Everybody loves a good CapCut template. This month, a top meme that surfaced was King Charles’ anticlimactic curtain-drop reveal of a large portrait of himself. The Internet, of course, immediately took action and created a CapCut template allowing users to place whatever their heart desires inside the large, ornate frame as an amusing way to showcase something that matters to them.

This was capitalized upon by many users wishing to show off a finished project, their own selfie, or a cute pic of their pet. Here’s an example of how someone used CapCut to add a cute singing cat edit into this otherwise normal video:

@life_is_goodie

#Meme #MemeCut #CapCut i got meow #cat #catsoftiktok cat singing talking #charles #kingcharles #trending #trend

♬ original sound - Crazy cats💕
Here’s why it was a royal success:
  1. The Internet loves to poke fun at world leaders and make their unordinary circumstances fit their ordinary lives.
  2. People love any chance to take a meme they wish they’d come up with and personalize it with their version of what fits the template best.

#4: Chauffeur? Chauffeur.

A silly AI-generated tune called “The Chat Shenanigans” surfaced in April and really caught on in May, creating a goofy, relatable meme to compare two different ways of doing things or two different definitions of something. Check out some examples below:

@i.c.e._

Stae into the void till scilence becomes loud #itsiceithink #alt #insomnia

♬ Originalton - Chat Music
@shit.show.shelby

Blocked🤣

♬ Originalton - Chat Music
@cadenmcdonald54

Please tell me im not the only one that uses grocery bags like this😭

♬ Originalton - Chat Music
@avi.akbar

I HATE when people do this 😭 #test #exams #school

♬ Originalton - Chat Music
Here’s why this fancy-pants meme works so well:
  1. We all have different definitions and ways of doing things. It probably wouldn’t take any content creator more than a few minutes to think of a time they ran into a situation like the ones above. This trending audio sets up a rather broad scope for relatable meme creation, providing a greater opportunity for reach and engagement.
  2. Once again, a catchy tune will win the day. We’ve personally got a rotation of “Espresso” and “The Chat Shenanigans” running around in our brain… Oh, and that “I’m Looking For a Man in Finance” sound. But that’s for another time.

And there you have it — May 2024 in all its meme-filled, trendsetting glory. From Sabrina Carpenter's catchy "Espresso" to the ever-glamorous Met Gala memes, King Charles’ portrait reveal antics, and the whimsical Chauffeur tune, this month has shown us just how creative and diverse Internet culture can be.

These trends not only entertain but also offer a light-hearted mirror reflecting our collective experiences and humor. In your month-to-month research for eye- and ear-catching content, remember to look for big events, easily copied/customized templates, and instant classics by the world’s favorite artists. That’s all for now. Stay trendy!

Looking for more insights on the world of digital marketing? That’s like…our bread and butter. We utilize two of our core values – curiosity and collaboration – to bring you consistent content helping you learn about the great digital landscape and how to operate like a boss within it. 

Schedule a discovery call today!

Random Round Up: Social Media News and Updates, May 2024

With another month comes another wave of changes to social media. Here at That Random Agency, we’re dedicated to keeping you in the loop with the latest updates. So, let’s dive into what’s new and exciting on our apps. 

1. X is Saying Goodbye to the “Likes” Tab

    X plans to hide post likes across the platform. That’s right — the “Likes” tab on profiles will soon vanish, meaning you won’t be able to see what users have given approval to. X engineer Haofei Wang explained, “Public likes are incentivizing the wrong behavior. For example, many people feel discouraged from liking content that may be ‘edgy’ in fear of retaliation from trolls, or to protect their public image.” 

    Here’s our question: Why would anyone “like” something they wouldn’t want associated with their profile? This change seems like it could open the door to promoting darker, more controversial content under the guise of privacy, potentially leading to a more radicalized feed. While Elon Musk’s own history of liking controversial posts might explain this move, it raises questions about the future direction of X. 

    2. UMG is Back on TikTok

      The three-month long standoff between Universal Music Group (UMG) and TikTok over royalty payments and AI policies has finally come to an end. The label’s music is back on the platform, thanks to a new deal that promises better remuneration for UMG’s artists, new promotional opportunities, and protections against AI. 

      Lucian Grainge, UMG’s chairman and CEO, celebrated the agreement as a new chapter that emphasizes the value of music and welfare of the creative community. And honestly…he couldn’t be more right. With new music from beloved artists like Ariana Grande or Taylor Swift dropping in the last couple months, we’re relieved. 

      3. Instagram Updates That Help Small Creators Break Out

        Instagram announced several major changes to its algorithm to give creators a fairer chance at reaching new audiences. These include:

        Definitely a win for creators, and kudos to Instagram for championing originality. These changes will not only support smaller creators but also ensure we get fresher and more diverse content in our feeds. 

        4. Instagram Might Be Expanding Notes to Feed Posts and Reels

          Instagram is at it again, testing a new feature that lets users add Notes to feed posts and Reels (if you’re unfamiliar, Notes can be found in your direct messages, underneath the search bar). Indeed, IG seems to be pushing for Notes everywhere…having just recently added the option on profiles.

          Image source: @permolity on Threads 

          While some users are annoyed by the development of features they don’t use, it’s clear that Instagram is targeting younger audiences who seem to enjoy Notes. With competition from TikTok and Snapchat, Instagram is definitely looking for ways to keep engagement high and spark conversations within the app.

          5. Threads is Catching Up to X with a New Chronological Feed feature

            Threads is introducing a new feature that allows users to add a chronological filter within search results, a move that brings it closer to being a true X replacement. As Threads Chief Adam Mosseri announced, the new “Recent” tab will allow users to view the most up-to-date posts, making it easier to follow real-time events like sports. 

            This update is quite crucial for Threads which, despite its growth to 150 million monthly active users, has seen its momentum slow down. With real-time discovery elements, Threads aims to boost engagement and user growth.

            —

            As always, stay tuned for more social media news and insights as they come. If you want to collaborate with experts who stay ahead of the curve, get in touch with us at Random!

            Unpacking the 2024 Nielsen Marketing Report: Strategies to Supercharge Your Campaigns

            Nielsen’s Annual Marketing Report is here, with insights into how marketers should be allocating budgets and measuring success in 2024. And…well…it’s pretty long! If you’re pressed for time, fret not - we read the whole thing and recapped the key takeaways and findings in this blog post. Aren’t we nice? Read on for the insights you need to know as you prepare for the rest of the year and beyond.

            Takeaway #1: Despite a Down Economy, Spending Optimism is Up

            Despite inflation, slowed consumer spending, and supply chain uncertainties, 72% of global marketers anticipate bigger ad budgets this year — up from 64% last year. Global marketers plan to allocate 63% of their budgets to digital channels, focusing especially on social media, search, online video, and digital display, driven by the higher perceived effectiveness of these channels. Among all the digital channels, social media stands out as a frontrunner with an average ROI that is 36% higher than all media over the past three years. 

            Random’s Take: While it’s tempting to pour all your resources into digital, don’t neglect other media channels! What’s effective for one brand may not work so well for another. A balanced mix may help you reach a wider audience and maximize your ROI. Industry specifics aside, billboards, radio and print ads, and other non-digital marketing channels are still effective with the right strategy.

            Takeaway #2: Misalignment Between Marketing Tactics and KPIs

            As the economy dwindles, it seems like the marketing department is busier than ever with more opportunities, but with those bigger budgets comes a catch: more pressure to deliver results.

            Here’s the irony though — 70% of marketers are focusing on performance marketing over brand-building initiatives, but the top KPIs are long-term ROI and full-funnel ROI. 

            According to Nielson, a brand loses an average of 2% of future revenue for every quarter it stops advertising, whereas ongoing brand-building efforts can account for 10% to 35% of a brand’s equity. It’s important to balance your short-term performance goals with long-term brand-building strategies. Advocating for a full-funnel approach means recognizing that some insights might be hiding in plain sight! Optimize your budget for short- and long-term goals and reassess underperforming channels for secondary objectives.

            Random’s Take: Performance marketing might garner more immediate and measurable wins, but building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint. Performance marketing does little to attract new customers and can lead to brand erosion when overused. Don’t forget that you need top-of-funnel leads to nurture along the buyer’s journey; without brand-building efforts, you’ll have a tough time converting if consumer’s don’t know who you are first.

            Takeaway #3: Media Balance is Key

            With today’s fragmented media, reaching your audience amidst all of the noise requires a deep understanding of your audience. Nielsen’s data shows the average on-target rate for digital ads in North America is just 65%, and confidence in measuring the ROI of CTV (Connected TV) investments is only 31%. In simpler terms, there are challenges in targeting precision and ROI measurements for digital channels. 

            Random’s Take: Precision is everything! A one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it anymore — knowing how your audience interacts with media is crucial. A cross-media approach can help overcome these challenges and enhance reach.

            Takeaway #4: There’s a Disconnect Between Insights and Execution

            While 84% of global marketers are confident in their martech’s ROI measurement capabilities, only 38% actually evaluate the holistic ROI across traditional and digital channels. This disconnect means blind spots and misattribution, causing marketers to underestimate the overall impact of their efforts. Not to mention, fewer than half of marketers feel confident in measuring the ROI of individual channels like social media.

            Marketing mix modeling (MMM) tools, like this one by Analytic Partners, offer a full picture of how your campaigns are performing. Even though MMM is highly effective, only 30% of marketers rely on it for measuring holistic ROI. 

            Random’s Take: Ultimately, it’s important to embrace a comprehensive media planning and measurement strategy. This approach will help you make smarter, data-driven decisions and get the most out of your marketing budget.

            —

            Looking to fine-tune your marketing strategy? Our team of experts is ready to help you leverage these insights and achieve your goals. Get in touch with us today, and let’s take your campaigns to the next level!

            Harnessing the Power of User Generated Content for CPG Brands

            examples of user generated content for cpg brands

            Open TikTok or Instagram and start scrolling. You will likely find UGC content creators and influencers taking over the feed in seconds. One of the most transformative trends in recent years is the rise of User Generated Content. UGC encompasses any form of content—like videos, images, blogs, or reviews—created by individuals rather than brands, and it can significantly influence consumer behavior and brand perception. 

            Authentic consumer voices have a significant impact on brand perception. Research shows that 84% of consumers are more likely to trust a brand’s marketing if it features UGC (​Bazaarvoice​). This trust is crucial for Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) brands, as it directly influences purchasing decisions. 90% of people state that user generated content informs their choices, a higher influence than other media channels such as search engines and social media ads (​inBeat)​.

            CPG brands have quickly leveraged UGC to help sell products, and the opportunity for both brands and creators has never been more significant. 

            UGC is found to be 9.8 times more impactful than influencer content when making purchasing decisions, further emphasizing the power of authentic, peer-generated content​​. 

            The Current Landscape of UGC in CPG Marketing

            Growing Importance

            Impact on Consumer Decision-Making

            The Future of UGC in CPG Marketing

            Technological Advancements

            Strategic Integration in Marketing Campaigns

            Challenges Around Using UGC

            Managing Brand Image

            Legal Considerations

            Here are a few examples of CPG brands leveraging UGC well to boost visibility and drive sales. 

            View this post on Instagram

            A post shared by NYX Professional Makeup (@nyxcosmetics)

            Case Study: NYX Cosmetics

            Overview: NYX Cosmetics utilizes UGC prominently in its marketing strategy. They encourage customers to post their makeup creations using NYX products on social media. The company then features posts on its website and across various marketing channels.

            Strategy: NYX has implemented a hashtag campaign, #NYXCosmetics, encouraging users to share images of their makeup looks. The brand frequently holds contests and challenges that inspire further participation.

            Impact: The campaign has led to an extensive collection of user-generated images NYX uses in product galleries on their e-commerce site. This showcases real examples of product use and significantly boosts engagement and conversion rates. The brand has noted increased customer interaction and higher sales, which are directly attributed to the authentic visual content created by users.

            View this post on Instagram

            A post shared by June Quan, Esq. (@stirandstyle)

            Case Study: Frito-Lay

            Overview: Frito-Lay's "Do Us a Flavor" campaign exemplifies UGC in action. The campaign invited customers to develop new chip flavors and submit their ideas online. The public could vote on their favorite flavors, and the winning flavor would be produced.

            Strategy: The campaign was promoted through various channels, including social media, encouraging widespread participation. Frito-Lay engaged customers not only in product creation but in the decision-making process as well, fostering a deep sense of involvement and ownership.

            Impact: "Do Us a Flavor" generated over 14 million flavor submissions and significantly increased sales during the campaign. The campaign also provided Frito-Lay with invaluable insights into consumer preferences, helping to guide future product development.

            View this post on Instagram

            A post shared by Daniel Wellington (@danielwellington)

            Case Study: Daniel Wellington

            Overview: Daniel Wellington, primarily known for its watches, leverages UGC to enhance its brand appeal and drive sales. The company encourages customers to post stylish photos of themselves wearing their products using the hashtag #DanielWellington.

            Strategy: The brand regularly features user content on its social media channels and website. They host periodic contests where participants can win free products for sharing their photos.

            Impact: This strategy has helped Daniel Wellington grow its online presence dramatically. It has enhanced the brand's image as a fashion icon and significantly increased engagement and conversion rates on its digital platforms. UGC has turned customers into brand ambassadors, spreading organic word-of-mouth that benefits the brand long-term.

            Wrapping it Up

            The future of UGC in CPG marketing looks promising, with technological advancements opening new avenues for engagement and interaction. Studies show that campaigns that include UGC are reported to achieve a 29% higher web conversion rate than those without it (​ApexDrop™). This demonstrates not only the effectiveness of UGC in driving consumer engagement but also its capacity to enhance conversion rates.

            How can brands succeed in using UGC strategies? It depends on how effectively they can manage challenges such as content authenticity, quality control, and legal issues. Properly leveraged, UGC can lead to unprecedented growth and a strong market presence for CPG brands, making it an indispensable part of future marketing landscapes.

            If you’d like to leverage User Generated Content (UGC) for your next campaign, we can help! Reach out to the RANDOM team today by clicking here. 

            April 2024 Social Media News and Updates You Need to Know

            It’s no secret that social media platforms are always changing. App developers are constantly rolling out new features that redefine the ways in which brands and creators interact with audiences. With how often things change, it’s hard to keep track of everything. We're here to share the April 2024 social media news and updates you need to know. 

            Meet Your New Assistant: Meta AI is Here

            Meta AI is Meta's latest addition to Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger. It enhances functionality within feeds, chat, search, and more, allowing users access to real-time information without the need to leave the app. Think of it like a Google search built right into the Meta platforms that you know and love.

            As social media platforms continue to evolve into search engines themselves, Meta’s AI feature solidifies its role as a one-stop shop for all types of research. This new function broadens the opportunities for visibility on the platform. So whether you’re planning a dinner with friends and trying to find the best place to eat or looking up hacks to save money, you can now do it while also liking pictures of your friend’s vacation and giving your hot take on the new Taylor Swift album. Thanks for the assist, Zuck!

            The TikTok-ification of Social Continues: Short-form Video Coming to LinkedIn?

            LinkedIn is experimenting with a TikTok-like short-form video feed, TechCrunch confirmed in March. This places LinkedIn among a long list of other platforms that have adopted similar features in response to TikTok’s surging popularity.

            LinkedIn’s version still focuses on career-oriented and professional content, but the short-form video feed aims to boost user engagement and content discovery with easy-to-consume, quick-scroll videos. The feature is still in its preliminary testing phase and not widely available. It's possible that LinkedIn might eventually monetize this feature to attract more creators to the platform. 

            “Blend”-ing In: An Instagram Collaborative Reels Feed Could Be On the Way 

            Instagram is allegedly developing a new feature called “Blend." Blend generates a private feed of Reels tailored to you and a friend’s shared interests. This internal prototype, not yet available to users, is comparable to Spotify’s collaborative playlist feature launched in 2021. The feature aims to enhance the discovery and viewing of Reels by leveraging the videos you and a friend have previously shared together. 

            If launched, Blend could offer Instagram users a collaborative experience that is not yet available on its rival app, TikTok. This feature could give Instagram a competitive edge in the short-form video space, which TikTok continues to dominate.

            Go Long! Longer Videos Are Making a Comeback

            Longer videos seem to be coming back into fashion as platforms increase their maximum video lengths. nstagram users can now use up to three minutes of clips in Reels. TikTok is reportedly testing 15 minute videos. 

            As users turn to social media to answer questions they might normally type into a search engine, creators are encouraged to utilize longer videos to provide more in-depth answers and engage viewers looking to social media for entertainment and information. “Time” will tell (see what we did there) if it catches on!

            Slide Into More Engagement:  Instagram’s Focus Shifts to Direct Messages

            In an episode of the 20VC podcast, Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri noted that much of  “Instagram’s growth has been in stories and DMs.” As users increasingly share personal updates and photos on private stories or “Finsta” accounts (what the cool kids call “fake Instagram” accounts), Instagram has responded by launching several new direct message-focused features. These features include notes, text-only status updates in the DMs page, and broadcast channels - a public, one-to-many messaging tool for creators to invite all of their followers into and engage with their most interested fans.

            Image source: Instagram Blog

            As user engagement shifts toward more private spaces, it’s advisable for brands and organizations to leverage these channels. So check in with your community managers. Their DMs are probably blowing up! Want to work with social media experts that are always plugged in to the latest and greatest trends? Then you’ve come to the right place. Get in touch with us today!

            How to Work From Home Like A Boss

            Person working from home on a laptop laying on their bed

            So You’re Working from Home…

            Did you know that April 10 is Global Work from Home Day? As an entirely remote agency, we’ve become experts in how to work from home like a boss. 

            As we navigate the nuances of working from home, striking a balance between productivity and self-care is an essential part of your success. So, let's explore some actionable tips to help you thrive in your work from home (or “WFH”, as the kids like to call it) environment that will keep you focused, organized, and productive all while taking care of your mental health.

            Get Comfy, Stay Active

            Whether you’re new to working from home or have been doing it for a long time, one thing is for sure: being comfortable and staying active during the day is a must. While it’s very easy to slip into the habit of staying put at your desk/kitchen table/couch/bed/wherever you work, it’s important to get up, move around, and get some fresh air once in a while. Take your dog for a walk, go grab a coffee, or fit a little yoga into your breaks. It’s not only good for the body, but for the mind as well. In addition to this, here are some products that we love that’ll help you stay comfy and active during the day:

            Buy a Footstool to Put Under Your Desk

            Adding a footstool - like this one from BlissTrends -  to your home office setup is a game-changer. Bid adieu to uncomfortable seating positions and say hello to ergonomic bliss. With a footstool tucked neatly under your desk, you can eliminate cramps and stiffness, while improving posture and comfort. Elevate your feet and your productivity as you conquer your day with ease.

            BlissTrends footstool to go under desk

            Sit Pretty with a Criss-Cross Chair

            Investing in a criss-cross chair - like this beauty from Sweetcrispy - is ideal for home office setups. With a 360° rotating seat and adjustable features, this chair offers optimal comfort and versatility. Its wide seat size and U-shaped design reduce hip pressure, while the high-density, sponge-filled cushion ensures long-lasting comfort.

            beige criss cross office chair

            Get Moving with a Walking Pad Treat 

            Who said you can’t walk a mile or two while you work? Place a walking pad - like this one from Yagud - underneath any table where you can stand and work, and start your journey towards consistent exercise while you crush your to-do list.

            woman walking on walking pad. amazon product photo.
            woman rubbing her eyes from eye fatigue with glasses in her hand

            Easy On the Eyes

            Comfort doesn’t always have to come in the form of how your body is positioned. Since we spend upwards of 7-8 hours a day glued to computer screens during the week (instead of socializing by the office copy machine), your eyes are getting a heck of a workout. 

            Pick Up Some Blue Light Glasses

            Luckily, there’s a solution to eye fatigue in the form of blue light glasses - like these trendy cuties from Visoone. With the capability to block up to 99% of harmful blue light, they should be your go-to solution for preventing visual fatigue, eyestrain, and those pesky headaches. Plus, they're non-prescription, making them suitable for anyone.

            beige pearly blue light glasses resting on case
            chunky red blue light glasses
            two pairs of glasses - one clear and one black

                   

            Quit the Squint with a Sleek Monitor

            If you’re someone who works at a desk, managing lots of projects at once, there’s no need to try to fit all your windows and assets on one 11-15” screen. With its expansive screen real estate and crystal-clear display, a monitor - like this one from HP - enhances productivity by facilitating seamless multitasking and providing clarity for documents, presentations, and detailed design work.

            HP desk monitor with beautiful landscape
            Person working from home with monitor, laptop, and phone on desk along with iced drink

            Stay Productive

            One of the more challenging aspects of working from home is trying to avoid distraction. Cohabitating with family members, pets, and life noise can often create a recipe for disastrous workflow…not to mention the laundry that has been piling up all week. While it’s healthy to take a break to throw in that laundry, it’s important to learn how to identify and minimize common distractions in a home environment, including noise, social media, and household chores, to maintain focus and concentration during work hours. Here’s some tips on how to do just that:

            Manage Your Time Effectively

            Consider exploring strategies for effectively managing your time, such as setting daily goals, creating schedules in your calendar, and utilizing organization features/applications that will help you maximize productivity. At Random, we use a combination of Google Workspace, Slack, and ClickUp to keep our team in communication and hold one another accountable for getting tasks done. That said, nothing is wrong with keeping a notebook, some sticky notes, a whiteboard, or any other tool that will keep you on task near your workspace to maximize your productivity. 

            face profile with flowers coming out of head representing good mental health

            Change Up Your Scenery

            A major part of working from home is working alone throughout most of - if not all - of your week. If you allow yourself to be sequestered to your everyday workspace without regularly interacting with the outside world, your mental health has the potential to decline significantly.

            One way to shake things up (if your job allows for it) is to challenge yourself to work from a coffee shop or a coworking space. This could be once a week, once a month, or even sporadically. Either way, getting out of the house and into the world can be just what the doctor ordered; the change of scenery can really boost your productivity and creativity levels in ways you have to see to believe, just purely based on a different environment, the buzz of the other people around you, or both!

            If this isn’t an option for you, find other ways to stimulate your brain outside of your home. Go for a walk on your break or sit on your porch/balcony (as long as the WiFi reaches). Anything that allows you to switch things up without sacrificing your workflow or efficiency is worth the extra effort if it ultimately boosts your mood.

            Set Boundaries

            There can be a lot of crossover between work life and personal life when you work from home, and the laptop can end up staying open a lot longer than it might if you worked in an office. The good news is that there are lots of ways you can avoid blurring the lines between your 9-5 and your 5-9.

            One of the most important concepts to embrace is the act of setting boundaries. Setting boundaries between work and personal life is essential when working from home, especially if the space that used to be used for relaxation and decompression is now the same one in which you take meetings and work on presentation decks.. Creating dedicated workspaces, establishing clear work hours, and communicating expectations with family members, housemates, and even your coworkers will help you foster a more productive work environment.

            We understand that setting boundaries can be challenging and anxiety inducing for some folks; nobody wants to seem like they aren’t a team player. That said, communicating healthy boundaries is the best way to set yourself (and your team) up for success. To dive into this concept more, check out this blog on Weworkremotely.com for even more tips.

            Guess What? You’re a Boss Now

            By implementing these products and strategies to maintain focus, protect our physical and mental health, and establish clear boundaries, we can navigate the intricacies of working from home with resilience and wellbeing intact, like the boss that you are. Remember, it’s all about making your workspace work for YOU.

            Looking to level up more than just your WFH setup? Random can help you with everything from A to Z in the digital marketing realm. Contact us here to get started!

            Schedule a discovery call today → thatrandomagency.com

            All Eyes and Ears: Best Practices for Podcast Cover Art

            So you’ve entered the vibrant world of podcasting, have you? You've brewed up the perfect blend of wit, insight, and hilarity. You’re all set up and ready to inspire the world with your unique perspective … but hold on! You need a podcast cover. Or maybe you have one, but it’s just not cutting it.

            What are you going to release into the crowded digital landscape of podcast-dom to vie for the attention of billions of daily users? A podcast cover isn't just eye candy; it's the first impression, the tantalizing teaser, and the magnetic force that says, "Hey, listen to this!" 

            So, buckle up as we reveal our best tips for making your podcast cover the secret sauce to transforming curious browsers into dedicated listeners.

            Cornea Catchiness

            Your podcast cover is the visual equivalent of a catchy jingle that sticks in your head and elicits a feeling — comfort, shock, or what have you — each time it is seen. A well-designed cover serves as the face of your show, creating a lasting impression that lingers long after the episode ends. It's the sly wink that says, "Remember me?" when your audience is scrolling through a sea of listening options.

            As Spotify puts it, you should never “​​start designing a cover before understanding your podcast’s visual identity”. So, before you dive into graphic design mode, here’s a simplified version of their step-by-step guide to doing just that:

            This approach is exactly how we helped our client Point NorthEast develop the cover image for their podcast, Level Up Your Business. Given that Point NorthEast is a business consulting firm, we wanted to make sure that the keyword “business” was not only in the podcast title, but also prominently displayed on the cover art.

            Podcast cover with blue background, white text that reads "Level Up Your Business", with yellow arrow behind the text that points up into the top right corner of the image.

            We took inspiration from Point NorthEast’s “Up and to the Right” mantra, which focuses on the upward momentum that is necessary for a business to grow. We not only incorporated the “level up” keyword into the podcast title, but used a non-linear, up-and-to-the-right arrow to give a visual example of this.

            We tied it all together with Point NorthEast’s logo (which features mountain peaks with the same upward trajectory as the arrow), their brand colors, and text that really pops off the image, giving an almost 3-dimensional look. We think it really works!

            Quick Tips:

            How to Captivate “Your People”

            As previously mentioned when discussing Spotify’s tips, you have to consider this: Who is your target audience? A successfully captivating cover invites your type of people — the ones to whom you wish to cater and convince to take the plunge into your content, promising an experience that's as delightful as the imagery suggests. After all, who can resist the allure of a podcast that satisfies the eyes and the ears?

            Podcast cover with illustrated images of Gareth Reynolds and Jake Johnson, wearing sweaters and using vintage headphones, mics, and sound equipment.

            Jake Johnson and Gareth Reynolds, a goofy actor/comedy duo with no real qualifications to guide you through life’s challenges, started a podcast called We’re Here to Help where they offer up “free advice that feels … free”. Funny concept, right?

            Here’s why their cover art works so well:

            Quick Tips:

            Click-Worthy Charm

            If a potential listener is scanning through an ocean of podcasts, your cover is the lighthouse guiding them home. An aesthetically pleasing and professionally crafted cover not only piques interest but also signals quality and trustworthiness. If a user is easily and quickly able to discern what your podcast is about simply based on your cover art, then you, my friend, are nailing it. 

            Here’s a few examples of branded podcast covers that exemplify what we’re talking about.

            Podcast cover with an illustration of a McDonald's red sauce container, with a yellow background. The font and color styles emulate McDonald's brand.
            Podcast cover with artistic, illustrated images of food, eating utensils, and a shovel, intermixed with the text of the podcast title, "Why We Eat What We Eat."
            Podcast cover with solid red background, the white Trader Joe's logo, and white text beneath it that reads "(inside)."

            All three of these podcasts are owned by their respective brands, and each does a great job of putting recognizable iconography and additional branded elements front and center to inspire clicks and listens.

            Quick Tips:

            The fact of the matter is, there’s lots of directions to take your podcast design; sometimes it’s just the initial spark of an idea that can get the ball rolling. That being said, we’ll leave you with this helpful link of pinned podcast covers that will hopefully get your creative juices flowing!

            Bonus Content! Random Podcast Recommendations

            Did you think we were going to just leave you without a few podcast recommendations of our own? Check out what the Random team always has in their podcast queue:

            Lauren Patterson, Co-Founder and CEO recommends The Economics of Everyday Things. “I love this podcast because it dives deep into the economics of a topic in a really interesting way. It's a great reminder that there are so many angles to tackle a problem or to tell a story with. The episodes are short and engaging, even if you weren't an econ major in college.”

            John Patterson, Co-Founder/Chief Strategy Officer recommends No Such Thing As A Fish. “It feeds my curiosity and is unstructured enough that it still has some thrill of discovery. Even if you see the title of the episode, there’s still something surprising and useful to learn.”

            Ryan Allen, Director of Marketing: “My favorite podcast is Kreative Kontrol, hosted by Canadian music journalist Vish Khanna. It's an interview-style podcast, with no real special hook or clever angle. Instead, the set up is an intimate conversation between an interviewer who is clearly a huge fan of his guest's work and independent musicians, authors, comedians, and other entertainment related folks looking to promote a new project. Vish's interview style is humorous, informal, and relaxed, but also very well-researched. 

            Recent guests include Tommy Stinson from the Replacements, 90s rockers the Breeders, new twangy indie band Ratboys, and author Michael Azerrad — who wrote "Come As You Are", the definitive book on Nirvana. I'm a huge music nerd, so this is all like aural candy for me!”

            Stefany Graves, Account Executive: “I have been an avid listener to most/all of the comedy podcasts out there. The ones that I keep in a constant rotation are Your Mom's House, Bad Friends, Whiskey Ginger, Good For You, Are You Garbage?, Hey Babe, Taste Buds, and sooooo many more. I just really love to escape into other people's lives and get a good laugh.”

            Allison Andres, Senior Social Media Marketing Specialist: “13 is the quintessential podcast for every Swiftie out there, with deep dives into everything Taylor Swift. I'm also a huge fan of Brittany Broski's podcast, The Brittany Broski Report. She really knows how to make you laugh and then have an existential crisis in the same episode.”

            Shelby Cron Boyd, Social Media Marketing Specialist: “My podcast recommendation is two-fold. My first rec has to be This American Life, hosted by Ira Glass. It’s such a fascinating listen each week with folks from all walks of life, with diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Each week they choose a theme and then interview people with experiences related to that topic, producing riveting, relatable and sometimes wild stories that ‘unfold like little movies for radio’. 

            My second recommendation would be Films To Be Buried With hosted by Brett Goldstein (Roy Kent from Ted Lasso). As a self-proclaimed cinephile and talented actor/director/producer, Brett creates a very welcoming atmosphere for each of his guests to talk about their life in the context of film."

            Looking to create your own podcast, but you aren't sure where to start? Random can help you with everything from cover art design to production and distribution. Contact us below to get started!

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