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.