The Real Reason People Aren’t Watching Your Videos
So you made a video. You put effort into it. You posted it.
…and, nothing.
And it’s because you didn’t hook the audience.
When presented with a world of information at their fingertips, online audiences have the attention span of a goldfish. What if there’s something better over there? They’ll overlook something meaningful simply because it didn’t catch their attention.
No one owes you their attention. It’s on you to earn it.
The ‘hook’ is simply the moment the viewer decides to stay. Something happened in the first five seconds that made them look deeper. The thing itself that caused the hook can be anything: a sudden car accident, someone spilling their drink, something sexually suggestive, or immediately feeling like they’re personally being addressed.
So, how do you make a hook?
Lead with something interesting. You need to feel this in your gut. What’s catching your eye? What excites you most immediately? We aren’t all that unique; what interests you will interest your ideal audience.
Build on the interest with the next-interesting thing. One idea/phenomenon should evolve into the next. Don’t waste any time; there should be an efficient progression of ideas and feelings.
Ensure the hook has something meaningful to do with the conclusion of your video. You’d only lead with something controversial because you’re going to resolve it by the end of the video (unless somehow ragebaiting people will build your brand).
Cut the fluff, focus on value, and respect your audience’s time. They’ll stick around if you give them a good reason too.
