Vine and Instagram have been the popular hype right now for posting anything and everything that gets people to fall from their seats and click that ‘like’ button. Even with Vine’s 6 second video limit, people have come up with the most creative ways even though weird to demonstrate some specific skill may it be dancing on top of the treadmill with your group of friends, or riding a bike through a cliff and landing on the sea. Instagram’s video feature has also been able to attract its users with its 15 second video record time.

The question is, is there more to laughs, showing off and likes for Vine and Instagram Video? Can businesses be able to market themselves effectively and communicate to  customers in just 6 or more seconds of video?

I believe that with the right approach and careful analysis of what to video and post about, Vine and Instagram videos can potentially be valuable to start up businesses.

Here are some of my thoughts on what works and what doesn’t:

-Humorous Interaction pays off.

Getting users to comment on your video and share their thoughts creates a two way communication between the user and yourself. It is always a plus if the videos show some aspect of humor around the business. In addition, the funnier it is, the higher the chance that consumers will remember the brand and share it to their friends, family, coworkers.

-Practice makes perfect.

Creating exceptional 6-15 second videos is no easy task. It is important that the execution of these videos are well thought of and show some good preparation. Users can clearly tell if these videos are just hastily made.  It also doesn’t hurt if you incorporate something fun or quirky about the company culture or its employees.

– Don’t be afraid to show off!

Post something that makes your consumers want to learn more about the product, service or company. Make the videos engaging and beautiful through deep messages or memorable interactions.

It is especially important to establish a connection with consumers by showing them that you care about whatever they’re going through and that you are up to date with what is happening in the real world.

– Harness the Power of the Hashtag!

Harness the use of hashtags in order to attract more curious consumers to your Vine or Instagram. Make them creative, unique and fun. Too much hashtags though can make consumers confused and set them off.

Here are some businesses which I find have exceptionally utilized Vine and Instagram Video. Feel free to check them out and comment! 🙂

Vine: Animate and Create, Wheat Thins, Orange France, Malibu Rum

Instagram: Topshop, Lululemon, Swarovski, Dove

These links also showcase some of their videos. enjoy!!!

http://www.practicalecommerce.com/articles/4103-6-Retail-Brands-Using-Instagram-Video

http://blog.hubspot.com/blog/tabid/6307/bid/34144/How-15-Real-Businesses-Are-Getting-Creative-With-Vine-for-Marketing.aspx

http://blog.sumall.com/journal/use-instagram-video-business.html