Take 5
How to Create Attention-Getting Videos
With Billie Parrot
TRT: 4m 35s
Video Transcription

Billie Parrot directly addresses camera:  Are you ready to wow people with video content that they can't help but click, like or follow? I'm Billy Parrott, a broker with Meridian Real Estate in Billings, Montana. I found that video content is one of the most effective tools for engaging potential clients on social media and YouTube. Let's take five minutes to talk about how to create quick, attention getting video content that will set you apart in the competitive real estate market.

Video is a powerful medium that captures attention far more effectively than static posts or shared links. Research shows that video content generates significantly higher engagement, making an indispensable part of any social media strategy. The key is to hook viewers within the first three seconds. Otherwise, you risk losing their attention. Short form videos are particularly effective for this, as they align with the brief attention spans of today's audiences.

The biggest mistake you can make is being afraid to show your true self. Authenticity resonates with viewers. An agent I know gained massive popularity on TikTok by simply speed running through houses and making humorous comments. His genuine personality shone through, leading to millions of likes and widespread recognition.

Want effective video engagement? One strategy that has worked wonders for me is creating community focused videos. For instance, I started a series called 100 Things to Do Before You Die in Billings, Montana. In these videos, I promote local businesses by taking short clips and B-roll footage, then adding trending music and information about the business. This is not. This not only engages viewers, but also strengthens community ties.

Another idea is to incorporate your personal interests into your content. As a runner, I started a series where I run through different subdivisions, capturing B-roll footage and overlaying stats about the neighborhood. This positions me as a local expert and connects me with other runners or individuals interested in those areas. Maximizing your content's reach involves posting across multiple platforms, while Instagram generates the most engagement for my brand.

I also cross posts to TikTok and Facebook. Each platform has its unique audience, and I can broaden my reach by leveraging all three. Stories or short videos are a goldmine for engagement that many agents overlook.

Behind the scenes content about your daily activities can captivate your audience. Everyone loves a peek behind the curtain, and Stories are perfect for this. They allow you to share a more personal, relatable side of your business. Ensure your videos fall into one of these categories. Whether you share market insights, humorous anecdotes, or motivational stories. Hitting one of these pillars is crucial for engagement.

If you’re camera shy, opt for voiceover videos with B-roll footage. This way, you can still share valuable content without appearing on camera. Alternatively, use scrolling captions to convey your message. Remember, don't Post-and-Ghost! Respond to comments and foster conversations. Engaging with your audience builds relationships and boosts your content in the algorithm. And always include a call to action in your posts.

Whether asking viewers to share your video, tag a friend, or answer a question, giving them a specific action can significantly boost engagement. Consistency doesn't mean you have to post daily. Establish a realistic schedule that you can maintain. I recommend a mix of content types 1 to 2 reels per week, 3 to 5 stories per day, one carousel or multiple photos post per week, and a live session biweekly.

For instance, I host a coffee chat every Friday where I interview local business owners or discuss upcoming events. This regular feature has become something that my audience looks forward to each week.

Incorporating video into your social media strategy is no longer optional. It's essential. You can significantly increase engagement and build a loyal following by focusing on authentic, community driven content and maintaining a consistent posting schedule.