Instead of directing users to a link, ask them to comment a keyword. This triggers a DM automation that delivers the link directly, boosting post engagement for the algorithm and providing a frictionless user experience.
In crowded feeds, purely educational content is often too boring to capture attention. Creators should embed entertainment, storytelling, and curiosity into educational topics to keep viewers engaged and coming back for more.
Audiences crave authenticity, making highly polished videos feel unrelatable. Instead of investing in expensive gear, creators should invest in authentic storytelling, embracing a raw and imperfect style that builds more trust.
Adopting a simple, repeatable format for short-form video (e.g., "Day 1 of X") simplifies the creation process for the creator while also setting a clear expectation for the audience, encouraging them to follow along.
As AI tools level the playing field for video production, the most valuable differentiator will be uniquely human skills. Your creativity, personality, and ability to craft a compelling story will become a premium asset that AI cannot replicate.
When the audience points out a quirk, lean into it. Pat Flynn turned comments mocking his thumbs into a signature part of his brand ("Diglett thumbs"), creating an inside joke that strengthens community and makes him more memorable.
A lawyer, Jefferson Fisher, built a massive following not by discussing law, but by teaching communication skills. This "wide net" strategy attracts a broad audience with a universal problem, ensuring he is top-of-mind when they need his niche services.
An unexpected or curiosity-inducing action in the first frame—like a fisherman chopping a rubber worm—can stop a user's scroll more effectively than any spoken words or on-screen text, making the initial visual paramount.
Many creators give up too soon. Pat Flynn's experience shows it took over a month of daily YouTube Shorts posts to see traction, proving that persistent, daily effort is required before judging results.
A "hook swap" involves taking a proven, viral video clip (e.g., a phone falling off a balcony) and using it as the first few seconds of your content. This tactic grabs immediate attention before transitioning to your actual message.
The lifespan of a short-form video is brief, so creators don't need to be on a constant content treadmill. "Upcycle" successful posts by simply re-uploading them after 60-90 days, as most of the audience will not have seen them or won't remember.