TikTok, Reels, YouTube shorts… It’s enough to boggle your brain! Algorithms are continually changing, and short-form videos have become the latest trend, capturing the attention of millions across the globe. But these platforms are offering a massive opportunity at the moment… You can reach new customers (due to the interest graph) rather than just existing followers.
Each social media platform works differently, and not everyone is right for your business.
We help you choose the right platforms based on:
- Where your audience spends their time
- What kind of content you want to create
- The results you’re aiming for
No guesswork. Just a smart strategy to get your content in front of the right people.
Recently, we had a post that went viral. We posted the same content to TikTok and Instagram at the same time, and here’s what happened…
TikTok exploded within hours… nearly 200,000 views.
Instagram? Took over 24 hours to gain traction, but it went on to hit 600,000+ views.
Takeaway?
The content wasn’t to do with anything we actually offer. It was just us, as a team, laughing.
Different platforms behave differently.
Just because it’s not instant doesn’t mean it’s not working.
Don’t delete posts too quickly; sometimes the algorithm needs time.
You never know when your content might get picked up. Keep showing up.
YouTube Shorts: A Long Form Pro’s Take on the Trend
YouTube Shorts is YouTube’s answer to TikTok and Instagram Reels. Short (under 3 minutes), snappy videos designed for mobile users.
Backed by Google, it offers a huge reach and powerful searchability.
Here’s what you need to know about using Shorts for your business:
Wide Audience Reach: With over 2 billion logged-in monthly users, YouTube provides an enormous audience for Shorts creators. This built-in user base can be advantageous for those looking to quickly grow their following and maximise visibility.
YouTube Shorts should also be your chosen platform if the younger generation is your target demographic. The short-form content consumed on YouTube Shorts is often more popular with Gen Z.
Easy Cross-Promotion: Already using YouTube? Shorts are an easy way to boost your reach without switching platforms. It’s great for discoverability, and Google tends to reward creators who use new features. If YouTube’s your home, now’s the time to jump in.
Instagram Reels: TikTok’s Biggest Rival
Instagram Reels (launched in August 2020) is a feature embedded within the Instagram app, aiming to compete directly with TikTok. Leveraging the already massive user base of Instagram, Reels has quickly become a go-to platform for short, engaging videos.
Let’s see how it compares:
Instagram Ecosystem: Instagram boasts over 1 billion monthly active users, and Reels integrates seamlessly into the existing app. This means that your Reels can reach a vast audience without requiring users to download an additional platform. By simply scrolling through their feed, consumers can be shown Reel content from accounts Instagram thinks they will be interested in. This allows small accounts a great advantage if they are creating great content.
Creative Tools: Instagram Reels offers a variety of creative tools, including augmented reality effects, music, and text options. This allows creators to add their unique flair to videos, making them visually appealing and engaging. Instagram launched its video editing app known as Edits.
Discoverability through Explore Page: Explore is a discovery surface where Instagram sources content from across the platform based on a variety of factors such as accounts you follow, photos and videos you like on Instagram, and who you’re connected to. People can access Explore by clicking the search icon on their Instagram home page.
The potential on Instagram is endless, especially if you’re a business or a brand looking to gain some attention. Something we recommend doing if TikTok is already a priority platform for you and you don’t want to tackle doubling your content creation for Reels, is to use the same videos for both platforms. If you film within the TikTok app, be sure to save the video before posting so the TikTok watermark won’t be on the screen and then post the same content to Instagram Reels! Voila!
If you need more Instagram Reels Ideas check out our blog.
TikTok: The Pioneer of Short-form Video
TikTok, launched in 2016 in China and internationally in 2018, is the pioneer of short-form video content. With its innovative features and a user interface designed for quick, engaging content consumption, TikTok has become a global phenomenon, particularly among younger demographics.
But let’s discuss what the hype is all about:
Algorithmic Discovery: TikTok’s algorithm is renowned for its accuracy in suggesting content tailored to users’ preferences. This level of personalisation enhances the discoverability of content, making it easier for creators to gain traction and build a following. Getting on the (For You Page) FYP is the ultimate goal for creators, but its design is smarter than you think. Users find themselves down the rabbit hole of a personalised, endless stream of short videos, keeping them engaged for hours on end.
Diverse Creative Tools: TikTok provides an extensive library of creative tools, including effects, filters, and a vast music library. This wealth of options empowers creators to experiment and produce content that stands out in a sea of short videos.
Global Community: TikTok’s user base spans the globe, creating a diverse and engaged community. This global reach can be advantageous for creators looking to connect with audiences from different cultural backgrounds. TikTok is also great if you’re trying to appeal to the Gen Z, or the younger generation. There isn’t a teenager or 20-something around who doesn’t at least know of TikTok; hence, it truly is a global phenomenon that has changed the trajectory of social media video content.
If you’re not sure whether TikTok is for you take a look at our blog… Should Every Business Be on TikTok?
Stumped on Where to Start With Short Form Video? We’re Ready to Help!
All types of short-form video content, YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and TikTok bring unique strengths to the table (or the feed)!
Content creators must carefully consider their goals, target audience, and desired features when choosing a platform. Whether it’s the wide reach of YouTube, the seamless integration with Instagram on Reels, or the algorithmic magic of TikTok, each platform offers distinct advantages for creators looking to make their mark in the world of short-form video.
However, that’s not to say you have to pick only one. The great thing about short-form content is that it can seamlessly intertwine between platforms, posting the same video on multiple pages.
If this all seems a bit too much to handle, but you want to start getting involved with the trend of 15-second videos to grow your following and highlight creativity, get in contact with us! We can help you create a strategy and schedule your short-form content, so you’ll look like a pro on your chosen platform/s.
To schedule a session or learn more email hello@pieceofcakemarketing.co.uk or call Emma on 07799626332.