5 tips for creating explainer videos that wow your audience (+1 example video)
Written by Tim Moss | 12th June 2024
Explainer videos are a great way to break down complicated ideas into bite-sized, engaging stories. They can transform your communication strategy by making complex information easy to understand and remember.
By following a few key steps, you can create videos that not only engage your audience but also leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re looking to simplify complex concepts or introduce new products in an accessible way, these tips will help you create high-quality explainer videos that resonate.
Let’s dive into 5 strategies for creating explainer videos that stand out and connect with viewers on a deeper level, ensuring your message is both impactful and memorable.
Check out the video at the end of this blog article to get an idea of what a good explainer video can look like!
1. Set your video’s goal
Defining the purpose of your video sets the stage for all other elements that you create. Before you start creating content, define what you want to achieve with your video.
Your goal shapes the video, acting like a mission statement – short, sweet, and to the point. Whether it’s introducing new software or sharing a success story, the goal should be clear. For instance, if you’re launching a new CRM system, your goal might be to show how it simplifies customer interactions and boosts sales efficiency.
By defining your video’s goal upfront, you ensure that every element of your content – from script to visuals – is aligned with your overarching objective. This cohesion maximizes the impact of your video on your target audience.
Example: Imagine that you are tasked with creating an explainer video for a new subscription-based meal delivery service. Your goal is clear: show how the service simplifies meal planning and preparation for busy people.
2. Know your audience
Understanding your audience’s needs and preferences allows you to tailor your message to resonate with them. A simple way to gain a comprehensive understanding of your audience is by talking directly to your customers, colleagues, or sales team. Ask about the common challenges and interests they encounter. Additionally, reading customer reviews and engaging with followers on social media can provide valuable insights into what your audience cares about.
Once you’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of your audience, it’s time to connect your message to real-world scenarios that they can relate to. For instance, if you’re introducing a project management tool, don’t just talk about its features – show how it can solve real problems faced by your audience. Illustrate how it can turn a chaotic Monday morning into a streamlined, productive day.
Example: To show the benefits of your meal delivery service you need to understand your audience: young professionals who value convenience but also prioritize health. Once you know your audience, you delve into their daily challenges. You discover that they struggle to find time in their busy schedules to cook nutritious meals.
3. Craft a compelling story
Storytelling is a powerful tool because it helps make your message more relatable and memorable. Start your story with a hook—perhaps a common myth about your topic—and then debunk it with your narrative. A well-told story can capture your audience’s attention and make complex information easier to understand.
End your story with a clear call to action, such as signing up for a free trial or scheduling a demo. This not only reinforces your message but also guides your audience through what to do next.
Example: Craft a compelling story that begins with a relatable scenario: a young professional comes home after a long day at work, too exhausted to cook. You then introduce meal delivery as the solution to his problem. Through the story of one satisfied customer, you debunk the myth that healthy eating is time-consuming and expensive. Instead, show how the service has transformed their evenings by delivering delicious, chef-prepared meals right to their doorstep.
4. Keep It short and concise
It’s important to keep your video short and to the point because viewers have limited attention spans. Aim to keep your video under three minutes. This duration is ideal for maintaining viewer interest and ensuring they watch the video to the end (Short-form videos under 2 minutes have an even better engagement rate).
Every second of your video should count. If a scene doesn’t add value, it’s out. Focus on one key message per scene to ensure your audience retains the important information without being overwhelmed. For example, if you’re demonstrating a new app, dedicate each scene to a single feature, showing its use and benefits clearly.
Avoid jargon and complicated language. Keep your message clear and easy to understand. This ensures that your audience can follow along without getting lost in unnecessary details. Keeping your video concise not only helps maintain viewer interest but also makes your message more impactful and memorable.
Example: Each scene is focusing on a key benefit of the meal delivery service, whether it’s the variety of menu options, the ease of customization, or the convenience of home delivery.
5. Add finishing touches
Adding finishing touches to your explainer video can take it from good to great. A good voiceover can add personality, clarify the message, and keep viewers engaged.The right music can evoke emotions, reinforce your message, and make your video more dynamic and enjoyable. And proper branding helps build trust and makes your video instantly recognizable as part of your brand.
By incorporating these finishing touches, you enhance the professionalism, appeal, and effectiveness of your explainer video, ensuring it leaves a lasting impression on your audience.
Example: Choose an energetic and relatable voice to convey the convenience and health benefits of the meal delivery service. Use upbeat, cheerful music to reflect the positive impact on the customers’ lives. Display the logo subtly in the corner of the screen and use your brand colors to maintain a cohesive look.
Quick Fixes, Pro Results: Elevate Your Video Content in Minutes
Do you want to become a real explainer video pro and learn how to make your video shine?
Join us for an informative webinar about the essential components of a great video and how adding a few small finishing touches will elevate your video and engage your viewers even more. Plus, simpleshow experts will demonstrate practical tips and techniques to enhance your visuals, refine your audio, and optimize branding for your videos.
Date: July 23, 2024
Time: 12 PM ET
The power of explainer videos: engage, educate, and inspire
Whether you’re seeking to streamline internal processes or elevate your external marketing efforts, explainer videos can be a strategic decision that yields long-term benefits for your business:
- Enhanced Understanding: They transform abstract ideas into tangible stories, making it easier for your audience to grasp and retain complex data.
- Increased Engagement: With a blend of visuals and audio, explainer videos capture attention and encourage viewers to watch the content in its entirety.
- Greater Accessibility: They break down barriers by explaining topics in a way that’s accessible to people with various levels of expertise.
- Memorable Content: The storytelling approach of explainer videos ensures that your message sticks with the audience long after they’ve watched it.
And the good news? You don’t have to be a video professional to create great videos. simpleshow uses intelligent technology to simplify the process and consolidate all the steps necessary to create a high-quality explainer video into one easy-to-use platform.
Let’s return to our meal delivery video which was created using simpleshow video maker:
Do you want to create videos like this? Try simpleshow video maker today!
