Creating LinkedIn Video Ads That People Watch
Most video ads fail. Here's how to make yours succeed.
Video ads can be powerful. But most people skip them. Here's how to make video ads people actually watch.
Hook them in 3 seconds. Your first moment must grab attention. Start with movement, a bold statement, or a surprising visual.
Add captions. 80% of LinkedIn videos are watched without sound. Captions aren't optional.
Keep it short. Aim for 15-30 seconds. Anything longer needs to be extremely compelling.
Show, don't tell. Use visuals to demonstrate your point. Don't just have someone talking at the camera.
Focus on one message. Don't try to explain everything. Make one clear point.
Use real people when possible. Stock footage feels fake. Your team, your customers, even your phone camera - all better than generic stock.
Include a clear CTA. Tell people exactly what to do next. Put it on screen in the last 5 seconds.
Test different lengths. Some audiences prefer longer explanatory content. Others want quick hits. Let data decide.
Optimize for mobile. Most viewing happens on phones. Shoot in square or vertical format.
Tell a micro-story. Beginning, middle, end. Even in 20 seconds, structure matters.
Use text overlays strategically. Highlight key points or stats. But don't clutter the screen.
Quality matters, but perfection doesn't. A genuine iPhone video often outperforms overproduced content.
Types of video that work:
Customer testimonials - let happy customers tell their story
Product demos - show your tool solving a problem
Quick tips - teach something valuable in 30 seconds
Behind-the-scenes - show your team or process
Results - animate stats or showcase outcomes
Test video against static image ads. Video isn't always better. Know when each works.
Repurpose video content. One longer video can become 5 short clips.
Stirling can help you plan video content that aligns with your overall ad strategy. While Stirling creates text and image ads, use it to maintain consistent messaging across your video and static campaigns.
Great video ads entertain while they inform. Focus on providing value, and people will watch.
