The Social Media Algorithm Survival Guide For Video Creators 🎥

Read Time: 4 Minutes

We’ve all been there…

You’ve posted a video that you thought was going to blow up and go crazy, only to be left with 16 views, 1 like, and 0 comments.

Now all you’re thinking about is how many hours you’ve just spent perfecting a post that in the end, amounted to nothing. Trust me, I’ve been there.

You’ll be pleased to know that you aren’t fully to blame for this and that the social media algorithm really does have a part to play in your social success.

So, let’s break it down.

This week, I’m breaking down the common pains and problems with social media algorithms, and the steps that you can take to elevate your videos, increase your performance, and and finally achieve video success!

Here are just a few common algorithm challenges:

  • Content Overload: Social media platforms are flooded with content 24/7, making it tough for your videos to stand out amongst the noise.

  • Algorithm Changes: Algorithms are constantly evolving, leaving you feeling like you're never quite getting to grips with exactly how it works.

  • Engagement is King: Algorithms can prioritise content with high engagement. That means if your video doesn't spark interaction, it's bound to get lost in the hours of content posted every minute.

  • Short Attention Spans: In an era of instant gratification, you have mere seconds to capture your audience's attention, and this is only getting shorter by the day.

Truthfully, I’m just scratching the surface out of the thousands of tiny details that are constantly tweaked and changed when it comes to algorithms.

Without scaring you off, standing out online and getting great video performance is only getting harder by the day. So, here’s a handful of ways that you can ‘beat’ the system:

  • #1: Know Your Audience

This is the foundation of success. Understand your target audience's preferences, pain points, and interests. Tailor your videos to resonate with them. If you’re not already doing this, you need to take a few steps backwards in your marketing plans to address this.

  • #2: Quality Over Quantity

Focus on creating high-quality content that adds value. A well-produced video will naturally grab attention and keep viewers engaged. If you’re focusing on quantity, this will be impacting your success, as nobody likes to consume shoddy content for the sake of content.

  • #3: Consistency Matters

Regular posting maintains your presence in the algorithm's eyes. Set a content schedule and stick to it, no matter what.

  • #4: Engage, Engage, Engage

Respond to comments, ask questions, and encourage conversations. Engaged audiences signal to algorithms that your content is worth promoting. If you’re not actively participating in the conversations, why would you expect others to do it on yours?

  • #5: Optimise Video Length

Understand the platform's preferred video length. Short, engaging videos often perform better on platforms like TikTok, while YouTube favours longer, in-depth content. Not focusing on what the platform demands will limit your reach, and thus your video performance.

  • #6: Create Eye-Catching Thumbnails

Thumbnails are your video's first impression. If you’re just posting your video online and waiting for it to blow up, you’re missing 50% of the puzzle. Create designs that will grab attention, and reel viewers into watching your video in its entirety.

  • #7: Collaborate and Cross-Promote

Partner with influencers, creators, or businesses in your niche for cross-promotion. This can expand your reach to a new and engaged audience and could open the gates to new consumers who really enjoy your videos.

  • #8: Explore Paid Advertising

Sometimes a boost from paid advertising can be all you need to kickstart your video's reach to the right audience. After all, sitting and waiting for the views to come in can be a slow process. But, it’s nothing a little helping hand from a bit of money can’t fix!

  • #9: Engage with the Community

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again. Participate in discussions, groups, and forums related to your industry and be part of the platform you’re posting to. Sharing your expertise can drive traffic to your videos, and you can make some powerful connections in the process.

  • #10: Stay Informed

Lastly, keep yourself updated on algorithm changes and social media trends. Adaptation is the name of the game, and if you’re not there with your ears to the ground, somebody else will be.

The social media industry changes rapidly, and if you can be one of the first to act, you’ll be guaranteed a nice bump in performance.

Yes, the algorithm can be to blame for underperforming videos.

But it’s by no means something to stop you from learning the trends, having your ears to the ground, and understanding how to work alongside it to skyrocket your video performance.

TLDR 💁🏼‍♀️

  • Know Your Audience: Understand and cater to your target audience.

  • Quality VS Quantity: Focus on creating high-quality, valuable content.

  • Maintain Consistency: Stick to a consistent posting schedule.

  • Engage Actively: Respond to comments, and engage with viewers.

  • Stay Informed: Stay updated with industry trends and new features.

 Whenever you’re ready, here’s how I can help you:

  1. Book a {60 MINUTE} Content Power Hour with me, and unlock the secrets to making your social media videos stand out online as I tweak your approach, and analyse how to improve your current videos.

  2. Don’t have time to create great videos yourself? Focus on your business, whilst we focus on creating the videos that you’ve always dreamed of. Get in touch to find out more.

Until then, I’ll see you in next week’s newsletter!