How to Build Your Personal Brand on LinkedIn with Short Videos

LinkedIn has become a powerful platform for professionals to connect, share insights, and build their personal brands. With millions of users and a focus on business-oriented content, LinkedIn provides a unique opportunity to showcase your expertise and reach decision-makers in your industry.

In recent months, LinkedIn has introduced a new feature called LinkedIn Short Videos or LinkedIn Reels. These short videos, similar to TikTok or YouTube Shorts, are focused on learning, education, and inspiration. If you’re looking to build your personal brand on LinkedIn, taking advantage of this feature can greatly amplify your reach and engagement.

1. Shoot Vertically

When creating a short video on LinkedIn, it’s important to shoot vertically. Unlike wide YouTube videos, vertical videos are better suited for the platform and provide a better user experience. Aim for videos between 45 seconds and 90 seconds, or up to two minutes if the content is unique and engaging.

2. Educational and Inspirational Content

To maximize the impact of your LinkedIn short videos, focus on two types of content: educational and inspirational. The LinkedIn audience consists of decision-makers, with users on the platform earning double the income compared to other social media platforms. Catering your content to these demographics can offer a higher probability of attracting potential clients or customers.

Educational videos should directly relate to your area of expertise or the products/services you offer. Share valuable insights, tips, and advice that can benefit your target audience. On the other hand, inspirational content allows you to connect on an emotional and energetic level. Share personal development insights, books you’ve read, or experiences that have shaped your journey. This type of content can inspire your viewers and encourage them to focus on their own goals and aspirations.

3. Get to the Point

In the fast-paced world of short videos, it’s important to capture your viewers’ attention immediately. Avoid lengthy introductions or unnecessary information and get straight to the point. LinkedIn users are accustomed to scrolling quickly, so make sure your content grabs their attention within the first few seconds. If viewers find your content intriguing, they will naturally click on your profile to learn more about you and your offerings.

4. Utilize Captions

Adding captions to your LinkedIn short videos can significantly improve engagement. Captions make your videos more accessible to viewers who may be watching without sound or have hearing impairments.

5. Write Engaging Text

When publishing a video on LinkedIn, you have the option to include text above it. Use this space wisely to provide context or add additional information that complements your video. Make sure the text is easy to read and understand, even for viewers who may be tired after a long day of work. You can use tools like “Hemingway App” to check the readability of your text and ensure it’s accessible to your audience.

6. Provide Clear Call-to-Action

Never leave your audience hanging at the end of your video. Always provide a clear call-to-action or direct them to the next step you want them to take. This could be leading them to your website, encouraging them to sign up for your newsletter, or pointing them to a longer-form video on a related topic. Make sure the call-to-action aligns with the content of your video and provides the logical next step for your viewers.

7. Share Specific and Actionable Advice

To make your short videos stand out, focus on sharing specific and actionable advice. Avoid generic statements that have been heard a million times. Instead, provide insights or tips that are unique and demonstrate your expertise. Your content should leave viewers feeling like they have learned something valuable or gained a fresh perspective. By offering specialized knowledge, you position yourself as a trusted authority in your field.

8. Avoid Making it Look Like an Ad

While it’s essential to showcase your personal brand in your LinkedIn short videos, avoid making them feel like advertisements. Instead of overcrowding your videos with logos and promotional materials, focus on providing helpful, relevant, and recent information. The goal is to generate curiosity and intrigue in your viewers, pushing them to click on your profile to learn more about you and your offerings. Remember, your profile should be optimized to guide viewers to the next step, even if it takes them outside of LinkedIn.

Building your personal brand on LinkedIn through short videos can significantly enhance your visibility and credibility in your industry. By following these best practices, you can create engaging content that resonates with your audience and drives meaningful connections. Embrace the opportunities that LinkedIn provides and start building your personal brand today!