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Creating Better Facebook Video Ads: Tips to Optimize the Viewing Experience

In the past year, the number of Facebook videos posted in the U.S. increased by over 94%. Not to mention 50% of Americans who use Facebook every day also watch at least 1 video per day. So why aren’t you utilizing the Facebook Advertising platform? Moreover, if you are using Facebook video ads, why aren’t they performing well?

With several opportunities to create video ads for a few StrataBlue clients on Facebook, I have grown accustom to creating top-notch campaigns with high levels of engagement. Continue reading to check out my tips and tricks for creating better Facebook video ads for your social media campaigns!

Choose Your Call to Action Wisely

What is it that you’re trying to accomplish with this video ad on Facebook? Facebook offers the following call To action buttons to drive click-through and engagement with your video ad:

  • Shop Now
  • Book Now
  • Learn More
  • Sign Up
  • Download
  • Watch More

Selecting the CTA button you believe will generate the most clicks is key. Don’t trick people by taking them somewhere on the web they don’t want to go. If you want people to “Book Now” after viewing a video of your restaurant, take them to your website or another third party reservations page so they are able to book reservations. Selecting the correct CTA button is key to any social media ad.

Make the First Two Seconds Engaging

Initially you will only have 2-3 seconds of someone’s attention as they scroll through their feed. Use this short but crucial time to engage your audience. Don’t waste this time with (fluffy) nonsense. Grab attention in the best way possible with your video.

Ideal video length

Yes the first two seconds are important to ensure the viewer is engaged but the remaining time is also important. Video length largely depends on the content and message of the video. Data and statistics suggest the optimal length for an online video is between 30-60 seconds. Thenextweb.com also iterates that it does depend on content – but if you’re looking to optimize for total views, shorter is the way to go.

Use Footage that Works Well Without Sound

More often than not, people will view your video while at work, in class or some other place they can’t immediately click for sound. Be sure your video ad makes sense if someone is silently viewing. Think about how you personally use Facebook to give this more context. While “thumbing” through your newsfeed, videos will populate very frequently. What makes you click to actually hear the sound associated to the video? Has to be pretty awesome, right?

Mind Your Thumbnail

AVOID TITLE CARDS. Like YouTube, lead the video off with something engaging yet descriptive of what someone is about to watch. Again, don’t be misleading and don’t be boring.

Don’t Reuse TV Commercials

Facebook is not the same as TV (obviously) so don’t make your video ad the same commercial you’re broadcasting on television. It’s a weak strategy and doesn’t provide depth to your campaign. Instead, use your Facebook video ad as a “behind the scenes” feature of your commercial. Not only is this engaging, but it’s kind of like an invitation to be a part of your brand.

Now you’re ready to start producing fantastic Facebook video ads! Not sure you’re up to it? We can help! Click “play” below to set up a time to talk with us.