6 ways to create engaging videos for social media growth

If TikTok's success has proven anything, it's that videos remain one of the most popular forms of content on social media.

In a world of ever-changing trends, knowing what types of videos audiences will engage with is just as important as having the technical know-how to make them.

Here are six tried and trusted video formats that will get you trending in no time.

1. Livestreaming

Nearly every major social media platform has implemented a live-streaming feature of some kind, and it's easy to see why. Going live allows you to engage one-on-one with your audience in real time.

It's no wonder why most people would rather get information through a live video instead of reading it in a blog. But before you pick up your phone and start broadcasting, you should know which types of content best lend themselves to the live format:

• Product announcements

• Webinars

• Live training

• Interviews

• Behind-the-scenes tours

Livestreaming is all about giving your audience the information they want and making them feel heard in the process. To do this effectively, eight principles can be applied across all live-streaming platforms:

1. Setting a schedule so audiences know when to tune in

2. Having access to a stable internet connection

3. Writing an informative description of the broadcast's topic

4. Giving viewers ample time to join the stream before it starts

5. Avoid dead air by keeping the conversation lively

6. Stream for longer periods

7. Stream often

8. End streams with a definitive conclusion

2. Tutorials

Whether it's baking a cake or changing a tire, videos are an effective medium for delivering step-by-step tutorials. Video tutorials are a great way to create value for your viewers by capitalizing on your industry expertise.

There are three essential ingredients for making a quality video tutorial:

1. Write a script and rehearse

2. Know your topic and stay on point

3. Don't be boring! Know when to mix things up and have fun

Tutorials also make for great evergreen content -- especially if they aim to solve a common issue.

3. Behind the scenes

People love to know how things work, and making a behind-the-scenes video is a great way to harness that curious side of human nature. More importantly, it's a way to humanize your brand and build trust with the audience by highlighting the personalities behind your content.

Behind the scenes, videos also work well as companion pieces to larger productions. Just have someone on set film the crew while they're working, edit those clips together, and you've got two videos for the price of one.

4. Explainer videos

Explainer videos explain to the audience the purpose of your product or service. Seems pretty straightforward, but the key to success with this type of video is to persuasive and succinct.

Ideally, you want a video that's around 60 to 90 seconds in length and identifies the problem that your product or service can solve.

5. Q&As

Another straightforward video category, Q&As, allows your audience to ask their most burning questions. Q&As can also give you deeper insight into your audience's perspective, which will help you market to them more effectively.

6. Event videos

Sometimes the hardest part of making video content is finding the right subject. That's why events can be a gold mine for new video ideas. With so much happening in one space, you'll have tons of opportunities to highlight your brand with videos covering topics such as:

• Promotional videos for generating hype

• Videos outlining reasons your audience should attend

• Highlight videos for key takeaways from the event

In summary

The best part about making videos for social media is that you don't have to be Steven Spielberg to make a masterpiece. All you need to get started is a smartphone and a positive attitude, so get out there and get filming!