4 formats you can always count on
These video formats are tried and true. Steal them.
1. Behind-the-scenes
People are nosey. Give viewers access they don’t normally get, and they’ll eat it up.
Behind-the scenes videos make the viewer feel like they’re part of the club rather than watching from the outside, and that connection does wonders for your brand.
Pop culture examples: Vogue’s 73 Questions. MTV Cribs. Keeping up with the Kardashians.
2. Serial with a twist
Consistency is great. When people know what to expect from your content, it’s easier for them to decide if they want to watch more. But you can’t make every video the same, there has to be some kind of twist. It doesn’t even have to be a big one, it can be as small as having different guests each time.
Pop culture examples: Hot Ones, TBPN, Love Island
3. The Underdog vs. the System
People love cheering for the little guy. It’s more interesting. If your brand is a newcomer or disruptor in your space, lean into that. Show the odds you’re up against and explain how you’re breaking the mold.
Pop culture examples: Uber vs. taxis, Airbnb vs. hotels, Pepsi vs. Coke
4. Before and After
Makeovers, glow-ups, transformations, whatever you want to call them. Before and after shots make good content. They make transformations tangible. You can tell someone you’ll make their website look better, but showing them a site you’ve already done this for is much more compelling.
Example: The Biggest Loser, Queer Eye, Property Brothers
These four formats can be as simple or complex as you want them to be, and they almost always work. That’s why there are so many examples of standalone shows that fit each of them.
You definitely don’t need a TV show, but a good series with a good premise can do wonders for your brand. Don’t be afraid to colour outside of the lines and be creative.
By the way, for those of you thinking “are there really only four formats?”
Nope. I have four more to share with you! Stay tuned for those in our next edition, cutie.
Peace,
—Ademola