Creating an explainer video can effectively communicate your brand’s message, product, or service. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of making an engaging and effective explainer video, optimized for search engines as per Google’s SEO guidelines and semantic SEO best practices.
1. Understanding Explainer Videos
What is an Explainer Video?
An explainer video is a short, engaging video that explains a product, service, or concept in a clear and concise manner. These videos typically range from 60 to 90 seconds and aim to capture the viewer’s attention quickly.
Importance of Explainer Videos
- Increases Conversion Rates: Explainer videos can increase conversion rates by up to 80%.
- Improves SEO: Videos can help improve your website’s SEO, increasing the likelihood of appearing on the first page of search engine results.
- Boosts Engagement: Videos are more engaging than text, keeping viewers on your site longer.
2. Planning Your Explainer Video
Define Your Goal
Before creating your video, clearly define what you want to achieve. Are you explaining a new product, introducing your company, or educating your audience on a specific topic?
Know Your Audience
Understanding your target audience is crucial. Tailor your video’s message, tone, and style to resonate with your audience’s preferences and needs.
Scriptwriting
A well-written script is the foundation of a successful explainer video. Follow these tips for writing an effective script:
- Keep it Concise: Aim for a script length that translates to 60-90 seconds of video.
- Use Simple Language: Avoid jargon and complex terms.
- Address Pain Points: Focus on how your product or service solves a problem for your audience.
- Include a Call to Action (CTA): End with a clear CTA to guide viewers on what to do next.
3. Storyboarding
Visualize Your Script
Storyboarding helps visualize your script scene by scene. Sketch simple drawings or use digital tools to outline the visuals for each part of your script. This step ensures your video flows logically and maintains viewer interest.
Choose a Style
Decide on the style of your video. Popular styles include:
- Animated Videos: Use animations to simplify complex concepts.
- Live-Action Videos: Feature real people and settings to build authenticity.
- Whiteboard Videos: Illustrate ideas on a whiteboard, often with a hand drawing out the visuals.
4. Production
Voiceover Recording
Hire a professional voiceover artist or record your own. Ensure the voice is clear, engaging, and matches the tone of your video.
Animation and Filming
Depending on your chosen style, either animate your video using software like Adobe After Effects or film the scenes. Pay attention to lighting, sound quality, and framing if filming live-action.
Editing
Edit your video to ensure it flows smoothly. Use editing software to cut unnecessary parts, add transitions, and include background music or sound effects to enhance engagement.
5. Optimization for SEO
Use Relevant Keywords
Incorporate relevant keywords naturally throughout your video title, description, and tags. For example, use keywords like “how to make an explainer video,” “explainer video creation,” and “explainer video tips.”
Optimize Video Title and Description
Craft a compelling title that includes your primary keyword. Write a detailed description summarizing your video content and including secondary keywords.
Add Transcripts
Provide a transcript of your video. This helps search engines understand your content and improves accessibility.
Create an Engaging Thumbnail
Design an eye-catching thumbnail that accurately represents your video. A good thumbnail increases click-through rates.
Embed the Video on Your Website
Embed your video on a relevant page of your website, such as a blog post or product page. This can help improve on-page SEO and increase viewer engagement.
6. Promotion
Share on Social Media
Promote your explainer video across your social media channels to reach a wider audience.
Email Marketing
Include the video in your email marketing campaigns to engage your subscribers.
Collaboration and Partnerships
Collaborate with influencers or partner with other brands to extend your video’s reach.
Conclusion
Creating an explainer video involves careful planning, scriptwriting, storyboarding, production, and optimization. By following these steps and focusing on SEO best practices, you can create an engaging explainer video that effectively communicates your message and improves your online visibility.
Remember, the key to a successful explainer video is clarity, conciseness, and a strong call to action. Start creating your explainer video today and see the difference it makes in your marketing efforts!
FAQs
1. What is the ideal length for an explainer video?
Answer: The ideal length for an explainer video is typically between 60 to 90 seconds. This duration is long enough to convey your message clearly but short enough to maintain viewer engagement.
2. Do I need professional equipment to create an explainer video?
Answer: While professional equipment can enhance the quality of your video, it’s not always necessary. Many successful explainer videos are created using basic tools like a smartphone camera and affordable editing software. The key is to focus on clear messaging and engaging visuals.
3. How do I write a script for an explainer video?
Answer: Writing a script for an explainer video involves keeping it concise, using simple language, addressing the audience’s pain points, and including a clear call to action. Aim for a script length that translates to a 60-90 second video.
4. What styles of explainer videos can I choose from?
Answer: Common styles of explainer videos include animated videos, live-action videos, and whiteboard videos. Each style has its own advantages and can be chosen based on your target audience and the message you want to convey.
5. How can I optimize my explainer video for SEO?
Answer: To optimize your explainer video for SEO, use relevant keywords in the video title, description, and tags. Include a transcript, create an engaging thumbnail, embed the video on your website, and promote it on social media and other platforms to increase visibility and engagement.