LinkedIn Video: What It Is, How It Works, Why It Matters for Charleston Businesses

Introduction: The Video Revolution on LinkedIn Video Posts

Your LinkedIn feed isn’t just about text posts and work anniversaries anymore – it’s gone video! LinkedIn has seen a video revolution with more people sharing videos in their feeds. Did you know LinkedIn videos get 5× more engagement than text-only posts? This shift means if you’re a small business owner in Charleston or Mount Pleasant, it’s time to pay attention.

Why the sudden video takeover? Simple: people love watching over reading. 60% of social media consumption is video. Last year, LinkedIn video uploads jumped by 34%. LinkedIn wants you to post videos, and its algorithm often shows video content to more people because it’s engaging. This is a golden opportunity for local businesses in Charleston’s lively community. A clever video can now outperform even the catchiest text post.

In this post, we’ll break down exactly what LinkedIn Video is, how it works, and why it matters for Charleston and Mount Pleasant businesses. We’ll give you fun ideas on using local events for video content, share local success stories, and provide a handy checklist to get started. By the end, you’ll see why LinkedIn video is the next big thing in Charleston’s marketing scene. Hint: We’ll show how CORE CONNECT Charleston can help you every step of the way, from SEO to video strategy. Let’s dive in!

(P.S. – Ready to boost your LinkedIn engagement right now? CORE CONNECT offers expert guidance in Charleston video marketing and LinkedIn content strategy. Don’t wait to go viral – get in touch with CORE CONNECT and start your video journey!)

What Is LinkedIn Video?

LinkedIn Video refers to any video content that you share on the LinkedIn platform. This can take a few forms, each with its own perks:

  • Native Video: This is video you upload directly to LinkedIn, as a post from your phone or computer. Native videos play automatically in people’s feeds and tend to get better reach than linking to an outside video (LinkedIn’s algorithm prefers when you upload directly). Native videos can be up to 10 minutes long, but shorter often works better (we’ll get to that). These could be a quick tip from you, a customer testimonial, or a behind-the-scenes clip from your Charleston office.
  • LinkedIn Live: Ever see someone broadcast live on Facebook or Instagram? LinkedIn has that too! LinkedIn Live lets you stream in real time to your professional network. It’s great for events, Q&As or product launches. Live videos on LinkedIn get crazy engagement – viewers can comment and react as you broadcast, and LinkedIn Live videos average 7× more reactions and 24× more comments than regular videos. Going live from, say, the Charleston Good Business Summit, could really hype up your audience. (We’ll talk more about using local events in a bit.)
  • Video Ads: These are sponsored videos companies run as advertisements in the LinkedIn feed. While you pay for these, they can be super effective for targeting a specific audience. In fact, LinkedIn video ads can boost conversion rates by up to 30% for businesses. For a Charleston boutique or tech startup, a well-placed video ad could bring in new leads. The good news is that even if you’re not ready for ads, regular video posts are free and already get an organic boost.
  • Profile Video (Cover Story): LinkedIn even allows a short profile video on your personal page (sometimes called a Cover Story). It’s like saying hello to anyone who visits your profile. This isn’t a feed post, but it’s worth noting – a friendly face and voice on your profile can make you more approachable. Imagine a Mount Pleasant realtor greeting visitors on her LinkedIn profile with a 20-second intro – talk about standing out!

So, what are the benefits of LinkedIn video? First, it’s engaging and memorable. Viewers typically retain 95% of a message when watching it in a video, compared to just 10% via text. Video allows you to humanize your brand – people can see your smile, hear your voice, and connect with your story. This is powerful in a close-knit business community like Charleston. Also, videos encourage interaction. They’re shared 20× more often than other post types, increasing your reach. Finally, LinkedIn videos build trust. Almost 62% of B2B buyers trust video content on LinkedIn. When someone sees you speaking about your services in a video, they’re more likely to believe in your expertise than if they read a text post.

In short, LinkedIn video is any moving, talking content you post on the platform – be it a pre-recorded clip, a live stream, or an ad – and it’s a game-changer for making your business message stick. It’s like having a mini TV channel for your brand on the world’s largest professional network. And guess what? Your competitors might not be doing it yet, which is all the more reason to try!

(Need ideas for your first LinkedIn video? Keep reading – and remember, CORE CONNECT can help craft a video content plan that fits your small business. From native videos to LinkedIn Live strategy, we’ve got your back – learn more here!)

How LinkedIn Video Works

Let’s demystify how LinkedIn video actually works behind the scenes and on the screen. Knowing the mechanics will help you make the most of this feature.

Autoplay & Eye-Catching Feeds: When someone scrolls through their LinkedIn feed, videos autoplay silently by default. This means your video starts playing (muted) as soon as it appears on their screen. The motion itself is a thumb-stopper – in a sea of text posts, a moving image will grab attention. However, because it’s muted, you should always consider adding captions or text on your video. Why? A lot of people browse on silent mode (like in a meeting – shh!). Videos with captions actually retain viewers 32% longer than those without​. Also, make sure the first few seconds are super engaging visually and/or have an enticing caption on screen. Viewers decide whether to keep watching within about 8 seconds or less, and a strong hook in the first 3 seconds can boost viewership by ~23%​. So start your video with a bang – maybe a bold statement, a question, or an interesting scene – to hook your audience early.

Mobile-Friendly Design: A majority of LinkedIn users are on their phones. In fact, roughly 60% of LinkedIn video views come from mobile devices, so it’s crucial to make your videos mobile-friendly. This means using vertical or square formats (which take up more screen real estate on a phone). Vertical videos get about 58% more engagement on mobile compared to horizontal ones. Also, keep file sizes reasonable and avoid tiny text that’s hard to read on a phone screen. LinkedIn supports HD video, but you don’t need Hollywood production – a clear, well-lit smartphone video can shine on a mobile feed.

Optimal Length & Format: What’s the best length for a LinkedIn video? Think snackable. Short videos often perform best because professionals have limited time. Videos under 30 seconds have a 200% higher completion rate (viewers are twice as likely to watch till the end) than longer ones. Aim for the 30 seconds to 2 minute range for most content. If you have more to say, consider breaking it into a series (e.g., “Quick Tip #1”, “Quick Tip #2” over separate posts) rather than one 10-minute video. However, for deeper topics or live streams, going longer is fine – just make sure it’s engaging throughout. LinkedIn’s algorithm doesn’t explicitly say “we boost videos of X length,” but completing a video is a positive signal. A completed view tells LinkedIn your content was interesting, which can lead to it being shown to more people. So, short and engaging is usually the winning combo.

Also, note that LinkedIn counts a “view” pretty liberally – usually if someone watches for at least 3 seconds, it’s a view. But don’t get too hung up on view counts alone. Pay attention to engagement (likes, comments, shares) and watch time. A smaller number of highly engaged viewers is more valuable than tons of people scrolling past.

Algorithm Love (and Boosts): LinkedIn’s algorithm – the secret sauce that decides what shows up in your feed – tends to favor native content that keeps users on the platform. This means your video post uploaded to LinkedIn is likely to reach more people than a post that just links to an external YouTube video. Why? LinkedIn wants users to stay and interact on LinkedIn. So it gives a little extra boost to posts that fulfill that mission. One study found that native videos achieve better reach and engagement because the algorithm favors them. On the flip side, posts with external links can see lower reach. So when possible, upload videos directly instead of just sharing a YouTube link. Another tip: LinkedIn loves content that sparks conversations. Video tends to do this well – in fact, LinkedIn videos on average inspire 5× more conversations (comments) than text posts. More comments early on can make the algorithm show your post to even more people (a virtuous cycle!). To encourage this, ask a question in your video or caption that invites people to comment. Fun fact: videos that ask a direct question in the first 10 seconds saw a 19% higher comment rate in one analysis​.

Analytics & Insights: When you post a video, LinkedIn provides some basic analytics that can guide you. You’ll see view counts, and you can click to see viewer insights like top companies, titles, and locations of those who watched. This is great for a Charleston business because you might discover, for example, that a lot of viewers of your product demo video work in the Hospitality industry or are located in Mount Pleasant. That feedback can help you tailor future content or even identify potential leads to follow up with. If you notice your 45-second videos get 70% completion but your 2-minute ones get only 20%, that’s a hint to adjust length. The goal is to find the sweet spot where viewers stay engaged. According to some research, videos with a 70%+ completion rate are 3.5× more likely to be boosted by algorithms​. So, keeping people watching not only helps deliver your message, but it can also increase your reach.

In summary, LinkedIn video works best when you grab attention quickly, optimize for mobile and mute settings, and play nice with the algorithm by uploading natively and driving interaction. It’s a bit of art and science: creative content paired with understanding LinkedIn’s preferences. Master both, and you’ll see your LinkedIn videos take off, reaching more of those Charleston professionals you want to connect with.

(Overwhelmed by the details? Don’t be! Even simple videos can perform great. And if you need guidance, CORE CONNECT’s LinkedIn content strategy experts are here to help Charleston businesses nail the technical stuff so you can focus on storytelling. Contact CORE CONNECT to boost your LinkedIn game.)

Why It Matters – Especially for Charleston’s Service Economy

You might be thinking, “Okay, videos are cool… but why does this really matter for my business in Charleston or Mount Pleasant?” The short answer: LinkedIn video can help your business stand out, build trust, and connect in a very human way – which is huge in a community-driven economy like ours.

Charleston’s economy is heavily service-oriented – from hospitality and tourism to professional services, real estate, and tech startups. What do all these have in common? Relationships. Business in the Lowcountry often comes down to who you know and trust. And that’s exactly where video shines. By appearing in a LinkedIn video, you put a face and personality to your business name. You’re not just a logo or text post; you’re a real person talking about how you can help. This human touch is key to building trust online. In fact, people are much more likely to trust someone once they’ve seen and heard them. Remember that stat earlier: 62% of B2B buyers trust LinkedIn video content. It means potential clients are more inclined to believe what you say in a video versus a written ad. For a Charleston financial advisor or a marketing consultant, that could be the difference between getting a message ignored or gaining a new client’s confidence.

Humanizing Your Brand: Charleston is known for its charm and hospitality. Your LinkedIn videos can reflect that local warmth. For example, if you run an event planning service, a video of you cheerfully prepping for a Charleston Harbor dinner cruise event, waving to the camera, instantly makes your brand approachable. You’re showing, not just telling, that you’re active and personable. Videos let you share client success stories or employee spotlights in a way text can’t match. You can convey passion and emotion – a satisfied smile, a tone of voice that radiates enthusiasm – which engages viewers’ feelings. Storytelling through video is powerful; videos that tell a story see 2× higher click-through rates on LinkedIn. And those clicks could be people checking out your profile or website after being moved by your story.

Building Local Connections: Using LinkedIn video is also about being relatable locally. When Charleston and Mount Pleasant folks see local landmarks or hear local references in your video, it resonates. Imagine a quick video of you at Waterfront Park with the Pineapple Fountain behind you as you share a business tip – local viewers will think “Hey, I know that spot!” It creates a sense of community. Or if you give a shout-out to another local business (“Just grabbed my coffee from Bitty & Beau’s – now here’s today’s marketing tip…”), you’re showing that you’re a part of the Charleston fabric, not some distant corporation. This can especially help service businesses that rely on the Charleston community and referrals. Video essentially lets you scale up that friendly meet-and-greet vibe that happens at local networking events, but do it online to dozens or hundreds at once.

Engagement = Visibility: In Charleston’s service economy, word of mouth is gold. Consider LinkedIn video as word-of-mouth on steroids. Videos on LinkedIn not only get more engagement, they spark conversations. On average, a LinkedIn video post can prompt 5 times more conversations than a typical text post. Each comment or share exposes your message to a new network of people (friends of the commenter, etc.). So one video viewed by a local business owner could end up being shared into the feed of another dozen Charleston professionals. We’ve seen video posts where someone in Mount Pleasant comments “Great video, thanks for the tips!” and suddenly their contacts in Summerville or West Ashley see it and chime in too. This ripple effect increases your visibility in the local B2B scene. Essentially, by putting out helpful or interesting videos, you attract engagement that amplifies your presence much further than you could go through one-on-one connections.

Showcasing Expertise and Building Trust: As a small business, establishing yourself as a trusted expert is key – whether you’re a CPA, a caterer, or a software developer. LinkedIn videos are an ideal format to share bite-sized expertise. For example, a Charleston accountant might do a 1-minute video on “3 Quick Tax Prep Tips for Small Businesses.” By sharing knowledge freely on video, you position yourself as a helpful authority. Consistently doing this builds an audience who sees you as the go-to person in that field. So when they need that service, you’ve already earned some trust. It’s like giving a mini free consultation to everyone watching, which often leads them to seek you out for more. Plus, video content has sticking power – viewers remember your face and advice. Studies show people retain 95% of a message through video, which means if they watch your tip today, they might recall you when they face that problem tomorrow.

Local Trust Signals: For Charleston’s service businesses, trust can also come from familiarity. Featuring local team members, happy customer shout-outs, or community involvement in your videos signals that you’re invested in the community. Perhaps you film a short customer testimonial outside their store on King Street, or you share a clip from a volunteer day your company did for a local charity. These little local touches in your LinkedIn videos tell viewers, “We’re your neighbors, and we care.” It’s a subtle message that can tip the scales in your favor when someone local is choosing between you and a faceless competitor.

In summary, LinkedIn video is any moving content you post on the platform – be it a pre-recorded clip, a live stream, or an ad. It’s a game-changer for making your business message stick. It’s like having a mini TV channel for your brand on the world’s largest professional network. Your competitors might not be doing it yet, which is another reason to try!

(Tip: As you craft your videos, think local and personal. And remember, if you need help shaping a trustworthy online presence, CORE CONNECT Charleston specializes in local branding and SEO to complement your LinkedIn efforts. A strong online reputation plus engaging video = winning combo. See how CORE CONNECT can support you in building trust and visibility.)

Leveraging Charleston’s Local Events for Video Content

One of the best ways to create compelling LinkedIn videos is to tap into Charleston’s vibrant local events. If you’re already attending networking events, conferences, or community expos, why not turn those into content opportunities? It’s like killing two birds with one stone: you engage in person and create engaging content for your online audience. Here’s how Charleston businesses can leverage local events (like the Good Business Summit or the Charleston Business Opportunity Expo) for awesome LinkedIn video content before, during, and after the events.

1. Before the Event – Build Excitement: In the days or weeks leading up to a big event, film a short preview video. This could be as simple as you in your office saying, “Hey Charleston! We’re getting ready for the Good Business Summit next week. I’ll be there on Thursday – who else is going?” Share what you’re looking forward to, whether it’s a particular speaker, the venue (Charleston Music Hall, anyone?), or just meeting new folks. If you’re setting up a booth at an expo, show a sneak peek of your booth goodies (“We’re packing our swag bags – here’s a glimpse!”). Tag the event if it has a LinkedIn page, and use any official event hashtag. For example, “Can’t wait for the Good Business Summit 2025! Preparing some special offers to share there. #GoodBizSummit”. By doing this, you not only inform your network that you’ll be there (potentially attracting them to come find you), but you also ride the event’s hype. People searching or following the event might see your video and engage. Plus, it shows you stay active in the local business community. Small effort, big payoff.

2. During the Event – Take Viewers There With You: The day of the event, be a roving reporter for your brand. You can capture short, on-the-fly videos to post. For instance, at the Charleston Business Opportunity Expo (an annual expo where small businesses connect, held at the Gaillard Center​), you might film a 30-second panorama of the expo floor: “Here we are at the Expo – it’s buzzing! Check out all these amazing local businesses around me.” Or do a quick interview: grab a fellow business owner (or even a visitor at your booth) and ask what they think of the event. It could be fun and candid: “Say hi, Jim! What brings you to the expo?” Such videos give your LinkedIn audience a taste of the action. They work especially well as LinkedIn Stories or short native posts. If you want to go bigger, you could even do a LinkedIn Live for a few minutes – for example, live stream a snippet of a panel discussion or a walk-through of the venue. Just make sure you have permission if you’re filming speakers or specific content. During events like the Good Business Summit, you could recap a key insight you just learned right there in the lobby (“Just heard an awesome quote from the keynote about purpose-driven business – had to share it with you all!”). The key is authenticity over perfection. It’s okay if there’s some background noise or the camera’s a bit wobbly – it feels real and in-the-moment, which viewers appreciate. They’ll feel like they’re right there in Charleston at the event with you.

3. After the Event – Share Recap and Learnings: Once the event is over, it’s content goldmine time. Within a day or two, post a recap video. This could be you back at your desk (or still at the venue if you find a quiet corner) summarizing the experience. For example: “Wow, what a day at the Good Business Summit! Met so many inspiring local entrepreneurs and picked up great tips on sustainable business practices.” Share your top 2-3 takeaways or moments. If you got any on-site footage or photos, you can edit them into a short highlight reel. Even a slideshow video of photos with captions can work. Don’t forget to name-drop (positively) and thank the organizers or people you met: “Shout-out to Lowcountry Local First for a fantastic event and to all the folks who stopped by our booth at the Expo – you made it a blast!” This not only shows appreciation but tagging others can increase your post’s reach to their networks. As always, include a call to action: maybe “If we met at the event, let’s connect here on LinkedIn!” or “Missed the event? No worries – here are my takeaways, and I’d love to chat more if you’re interested.” Such an invite can turn viewers into direct contacts or leads.

Engaging with Local Events: One of the best ways to create compelling LinkedIn videos is to tap into Charleston’s vibrant local events. If you’re attending networking events or community expos, turn those into content opportunities. Engage in person and create engaging content for your online audience.

Local Event Ideas for Content: Besides the Good Business Summit (a one-day conference on profitable, purpose-driven business) and the City of Charleston’s Business Opportunity Expo (“Small Businesses: Thrive in ’25” expo for networking and resources​), think about other Charleston/Mt. Pleasant events: the Chamber of Commerce Business & Community Expo (Mount Pleasant hosts an annual expo in September), local meetups (like tech talks, marketing meetups), or even community events like charity runs or festivals if they relate to your brand. Are you attending the Dig South Tech Summit or a Charleston Digital Corridor event? Take your LinkedIn audience along via video. Even a casual Business After Hours networking happy hour – do a lighthearted video with a colleague about one new connection you made that evening.

The strategy is to capitalize on event energy. Events naturally give you fresh material to talk about and show, so you’re not starting from scratch thinking of content. You’re documenting and sharing what you’re already doing – with a marketing twist. This positions you as an active, involved player in the local business scene, which boosts your credibility. It also provides variety in your LinkedIn feed (not every post is you at your desk; some are out and about – it’s visually more interesting).

And remember, people love seeing themselves or their city in content. Featuring a known Charleston event or location in your video can draw local engagement. Someone might comment “I was there too, great event!” or “Love that you mentioned the Good Business Summit, I found it valuable as well.” Now you’ve sparked a conversation that others in the community can join, which is exactly the kind of engagement LinkedIn’s algorithm rewards.

(Pro tip: Keep your phone or camera handy at events and record more footage than you think you need. You can always trim down, but you can’t go back in time for that perfect shot of the crowd cheering the keynote speaker. And if you need help turning event footage into polished videos or want ideas on capturing the right moments, CORE CONNECT can provide guidance as part of a comprehensive content strategy. We’re all about making your Charleston events work double-time for your marketing!)

Local Success Stories

Sometimes the best way to understand the power of LinkedIn video is through real examples. Let’s look at a couple of Charleston/Mount Pleasant success stories where businesses used LinkedIn video and saw amazing results. These stories show that you don’t have to be a huge corporation or a professional filmmaker – consistency and authenticity can go a long way.

“Video On Easy Mode” – From Zero to Boom: One local entrepreneur, Danny DelVecchio, founded a service called Video On Easy Mode in Charleston. His entire business is helping others create video content, so you’d expect he’d use LinkedIn video himself – and wow, did he ever. Danny started regularly posting simple, candid videos on LinkedIn talking about (what else?) video marketing tips. In the span of a year, he posted 193 videos on LinkedIn and attracted 117 clients directly through those videos. You read that right – over a hundred clients just from consistently showing up on LinkedIn with video content. All those clients came inbound because they saw his helpful videos and learned to trust his expertise. Danny didn’t have a fancy studio; many of his videos were just him speaking to the camera with quick tips or insights, often under a minute. But by focusing on one topic (the value of video) and delivering that message with personality over and over, he built a huge following. He even famously said, “I talk about it over and over… And guess what? You keep coming back! And I keep signing new clients”. This story is inspiring because it shows the compound effect of video consistency. Video On Easy Mode’s success proves that a small operation in Charleston can reach a global LinkedIn audience. It also illustrates that repetition and niche focus can make you memorable. Danny basically became “the video guy” in many people’s LinkedIn feeds. Whenever those people thought about needing video help, who came to mind? The guy whose videos they’d been seeing all year. This is a blueprint any small business can try: pick your area of expertise, share short videos about it frequently, and engage with your audience. The trust and business will follow.

Local B2B Company Wins Clients with Authentic Videos: Another success story closer to home is a Mount Pleasant-based B2B service company (let’s call them Charleston IT Co. for privacy). They provide IT support to other businesses. Now, IT services can sound dry, but this company added a Charleston twist to their LinkedIn videos. Their marketing manager started a series of “Tech Tip Tuesday” videos on LinkedIn. Every Tuesday, she’d post a 1-minute video with a simple tech tip (like how to avoid phishing emails, or a quick software hack) and often relate it to a real scenario with one of their local clients (no names, just like “a local law firm we help out”). Occasionally, she’d film at recognizable places – once from outside the client’s office on Broad Street, another time with the Ravenel Bridge in the background just for fun. Over a few months, these videos gained traction. They didn’t go viral worldwide, but among the Charleston business community, people started noticing. The views were in the few hundreds, but importantly, the right people were watching – other business owners and office managers. Charleston IT Co. reported that in that year, about 5-6 new client inquiries mentioned the LinkedIn videos: “I see your tips on LinkedIn every week, and we might need your help with our IT.” That’s 5-6 warm leads that likely wouldn’t have come through a cold call. The videos cost basically nothing to make (shot on a smartphone) and took maybe an hour a week to produce. But by showing up consistently and adding value, they won new business. The casual, friendly tone of the videos (with a bit of Charleston flavor) made their company feel approachable and in touch with modern marketing, even though IT can be old-school. Now they’ve expanded into doing client testimonial videos – asking happy local clients to speak on camera – and posting those to LinkedIn. Each testimonial, where a fellow Charleston business owner praises Charleston IT Co., adds huge credibility. This success story highlights that you don’t need massive viral numbers; you just need the right people to see it. LinkedIn being a professional network helped them directly target an audience that cares about their content.

Employee Spotlights at a Charleston Marketing Agency: Let’s mention a third quick example. A digital marketing agency in Charleston (think something like Lowcountry Marketing Co.) started doing monthly “meet the team” videos on LinkedIn. Each video is a fun 45-second introduction to one team member – their role, a fun fact, and why they love Charleston. The tone is very Gen Z-friendly and playful (e.g., “Meet Jenna: our SEO whiz who can be found paddleboarding on Shem Creek when she’s not boosting client rankings!” with Jenna waving on a paddleboard). These videos did a few things: 1) They humanized the agency, so potential clients see the personalities behind the brand. 2) They acted as recruiting tools – showcasing a fun company culture to attract talent. 3) They got decent engagement because employees’ friends and clients would like and comment (“Go Jenna!” etc.), thereby spreading the agency’s name around. One of their videos even highlighted a project for a local restaurant, featuring a clip from that project, which got the restaurant owner to reshare it, extending reach further. Over time, these monthly videos built a friendly brand image. Prospective clients coming from LinkedIn often mention “I love your team’s energy” – a sentiment directly stemming from those videos. The agency credits LinkedIn video for helping close a couple of new client deals, as clients felt they already “knew” the team a bit from the videos, easing the trust barrier.

These stories all have a common thread: authentic, consistent content aimed at educating or connecting, not just selling. None of them were hard sales pitches. They provided value or personality, which attracted business naturally. And importantly, they show that Charleston and Mount Pleasant businesses are already leveraging LinkedIn video successfully. It’s not just a Silicon Valley thing or for big brands – it works right here in the Lowcountry.

Feeling inspired yet? Your business could be the next success story. Think about what story you can tell or what expertise you can share on video. Maybe it’s a success story of one of your own customers (with their permission, share how you helped them, and tag them). Maybe it’s your founder’s story – why you started your business (people love origin stories, and a genuine founder story can differentiate you from competitors). The possibilities are endless. The key is to start and stick with it. Your first video might only get a few likes, but stick to it; each piece builds on the last. As Danny’s example shows, consistency is king – or shall we say, content is king and consistency is queen? 😉

(Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. CORE CONNECT can help brainstorm and even produce LinkedIn video content. Whether it’s planning a content calendar or polishing those testimonial videos, we’ve got local success in mind. Reach out to us to become Charleston’s next LinkedIn video success story!)

Getting Started improving your LinkedIn Video Feed – A Handy Checklist

Ready to roll the camera? Getting started with LinkedIn video is easier than you might think. You don’t need a Hollywood studio or million-dollar budget. You just need some creativity, basic gear, and a willingness to put yourself out there. Here’s a checklist to help you hit the ground running, covering content ideas, production tips, and engagement best practices:

✔️ Content Ideas: Not sure what to film? Start with these simple ideas that work great for small businesses:

  • Customer Testimonials: Ask a happy client to share their experience in a short video. Nothing builds trust like seeing a real person vouch for you. Even a 30-second testimonial at their office or via a Zoom recording can be gold.
  • Event Highlights: As we discussed, film before/during/after local events. For example, show off your booth at a Charleston expo or share a nugget you learned at a conference. This positions you as active and connected.
  • Educational Tips: Think of 1-2 tips you can share from your expertise. If you’re a realtor, maybe “How to stage your home in 1 day” with quick pointers. If you’re a fitness coach, “Best 15-minute workout for busy professionals” (even demonstrate a move). Educational videos get 3× more engagement on LinkedIn because people love learning something useful.
  • Behind the Scenes / Day in the Life: Give a sneak peek into your daily work. If you run a bakery, show the morning routine of baking bread. If you’re a consultant, maybe a snippet of you setting up for a webinar. It makes your business relatable and interesting.
  • Product or Service Demos: A quick demo of how your product works or a before-and-after if you offer a service. Show that new app feature you built, or how you transformed a client’s garden. Visual proof is compelling.
  • Team Introductions: Introduce your team members one by one (as in the example earlier). It personalizes your company. People might be more inclined to reach out when they feel they “know” the people.
  • Local Spotlight: Create a video highlighting something in the local community – perhaps a charity your business supports or a partnership with another local biz. It’s not directly promotional but shows your values and networks.
  • Common Q&A: Think of questions you get all the time from customers, and answer one per video. Like “How much does X cost?” or “What’s the process for Y?” It’s likely others have the same questions, and you’ll be helping by answering on a broad platform.

(Brainstorming content still hard? Let CORE CONNECT help you develop a content strategy. From figuring out which stories to tell to aligning them with SEO keywords like “LinkedIn for small business” or “B2B video content” that people search for, we can map it out for you.)

✔️ Production Tips: You’ve got your idea, now make sure the video looks and sounds good. No need for Spielberg-level cinematography – just follow these basics:

  • Lighting: Good lighting makes a huge difference. Shoot in a well-lit area (natural light from a window is great, shining on you from the front). Avoid having bright windows behind you (that turns you into a silhouette). A simple ring light and microphone can 10× your video quality – and both together can cost under $50. That small investment will make you look crisp and sound clear.
  • Sound: Speaking of microphones – clear audio is vital. If viewers can’t hear you well, they’ll scroll past. You can use the phone’s microphone in a quiet room, but if there’s any background noise, consider a lavalier mic (the clip-on kind) which can be found cheaply online. Test a short clip and play it back to ensure your voice is loud and clear.
  • Steady and Framed: Prop your phone on a steady surface or use a tripod to avoid shaky footage. Frame yourself from about the chest up with a little headroom. Basically, make it like a FaceTime call view, not a tiny figure in a huge room. Eye-level camera angle – not too low (up-the-nose view) and not oddly high. You want viewers to feel like you’re looking at them.
  • Keep it Short & Sweet: We’ve said it before, we’ll say it again – shorter is usually better, especially when starting out. Aim for 1 minute or so. You can pack a lot into 60 seconds if you plan it. If you have more to say, break it into parts (“Part 1 today, Part 2 tomorrow!” which also gives you an easy follow-up post).
  • Speak Naturally: It’s normal to be a bit nervous on camera. One trick: pretend you’re talking to a specific friend or favorite client behind the lens. This “Talk to a Friend” method can make your tone more warm and conversational. It helps you avoid sounding like you’re reading a script robotically. It’s okay to have notes or an outline, but try not to read word-for-word – just explain in simple terms like you would in person. (Remember, we’re keeping things at a friendly 6th-grade reading level here.)
  • Background & Environment: Choose a nice, uncluttered background. It can be your office, a neat corner of your store, or somewhere relevant. Charleston folks: you could even pick a scenic spot (just mind wind noise outdoors). Ensure there’s nothing too distracting behind you. Also, dress appropriately for your brand – look professional but approachable. Basically, appear as you would when meeting a client.
  • Edit Lightly if Needed: You don’t need fancy edits. In fact, on LinkedIn, overly polished videos can sometimes feel like ads and get less engagement. Authentic is often better. But if you need to cut out a long pause or add captions, you can use simple free tools (like Canva’s video editor or apps like InShot on your phone) to trim and caption. Captions are highly recommended since many will watch on mute. LinkedIn even has an option to upload an SRT file for captions, or some tools will burn the text onto the video for you.
  • Branding Touches: If you want, add a tiny logo or your name/title in a corner, or end the video with your company name. Keep it subtle; the content should still be the star.

✔️ Engagement Tips: Posting the video is just half the game – you also want people to watch and interact. Here’s how to encourage engagement:

  • Strong Caption Text: When you post the video on LinkedIn, you’ll have a text box to write something. Start with a hook or interesting line so that in the feed, people are drawn to click “…see more” and watch the video. For example: “I almost quit my business last year. Here’s how video marketing pulled me back.” or a simple question like “Do you make this mistake in sales calls?”. An intriguing caption can lure viewers in.
  • Ask a Question or Call-to-Action: At the end of your video (and/or in the post caption text), ask viewers to do something – CTA (call to action). It can be as straightforward as “What do you think? Leave a comment with your experience,” or “If you found this helpful, hit like or share with a friend!” You can also invite them to visit your website or contact you, e.g., “Looking for more tips? Check out our blog (link in comments) for the full guide.” Directly prompting engagement often leads to more comments and shares. Just be genuine, not spammy.
  • Use Hashtags (Smartly): Adding a couple of relevant hashtags can help discoverability. For example, use #LinkedInVideo, #CharlestonBusiness, or industry tags like #MarketingTips. Don’t overdo it – 3 hashtags is plenty. And only use ones that make sense for the content. Hashtags can help people outside your immediate network find your video if they follow that tag.
  • Timing Matters: Posting a video on LinkedIn at times when your audience is online. For a professional crowd, that might be weekday mornings or around lunch. Experiment with times – perhaps mid-morning (10am) catches folks during a coffee break, or early afternoon when they might scroll a bit. Avoid middle of the night or super late Friday when people are off to happy hour. There’s evidence that consistent posting (like same time each week) can train your audience to expect and look forward to your content. Also, try to post when you can be available in the first couple of hours to reply to any comments – LinkedIn’s algorithm loves when a post gets engagement soon after posting.
  • Engage, Engage, Engage: When people do comment on your video, reply to every comment if you can. Even just a “Thanks for watching, [Name]!” or answering their question promptly. This not only doubles the comment count (which boosts the post in the algorithm), but it makes those commenters feel heard, encouraging them to keep engaging with you. Also engage beyond your own posts: respond to others’ posts, and they might reciprocate. Be an active community member – it all feeds into more visibility for you.
  • Consistency & Frequency: Consistency is more important than frequency, but both help. Try to set a schedule, like one video a week or two a month – whatever you can sustain. Profiles that post video regularly often see higher overall engagement (one stat showed weekly video posts can boost engagement by 23% on average​). Regular content keeps you on people’s radar. But quality over quantity: better to do one good video a week than five rushed ones.
  • Monitor Performance and Tweak: Use the LinkedIn analytics for your videos. See what topics or styles get the most views or comments, and do more of those. If something flops, don’t be discouraged – treat it as feedback and try a different approach next time. The more you post, the more data you have to refine your strategy.

By following this checklist, you’ll be well on your way to LinkedIn video success. It’s normal to feel a bit nervous hitting “post” on your first video – but remember, LinkedIn is generally a positive community, especially within supportive local circles. You’re likely to get encouragement. And the more videos you do, the easier it gets and the better you’ll become at delivering your message on camera.

(Quick reminder: CORE CONNECT is here for you at any step. Not sure what equipment to get? Need help brainstorming that first video topic or polishing your caption for SEO? That’s what we do – reach out to CORE CONNECT and we’ll guide you through making LinkedIn video a cornerstone of your marketing.)

How CORE CONNECT Can Help

By now, you might be excited about the possibilities of LinkedIn video – and also realizing there’s a bit of work involved to do it right. Don’t worry, CORE CONNECT has your back. We’re a Charleston-based all-in-one web design and marketing company that specializes in helping small businesses shine online. LinkedIn video is an amazing tool, but it works even better as part of a bigger strategy – and that’s where we come in. Here are a few ways CORE CONNECT can help you level up your LinkedIn video game (and overall digital presence):

  • SEO & Content Strategy Alignment: You want those LinkedIn videos to not only engage viewers but also drive real business results. CORE CONNECT can help integrate your LinkedIn content into your broader marketing strategy. For example, we’ll research keywords (like LinkedIn for small business, Charleston video marketing, etc.) and trending topics in your industry to guide your video topics. If a lot of people search for “B2B video content tips” or “Charleston marketing agency LinkedIn,” we’ll make sure your content and captions hit those terms (LinkedIn content strategy is literally in our wheelhouse!). We can also help repurpose your LinkedIn videos on your website or blog for extra mileage – embedding videos in blog posts (which can improve time-on-page for SEO) or transcribing them into an article (great for Google indexing). It’s about making your video content work across platforms.
  • Video Ideation & Production Support: Stuck on what to say on camera? CORE CONNECT can brainstorm with you to develop a list of compelling video ideas tailored to your business and audience. We know what works for professional audiences and how to keep things at that friendly, accessible level. If you need, we can even assist in the production process – whether that’s coaching you on-camera, helping script a loose outline, or handling editing/post-production tasks like adding captions or intro graphics. Think of us as your local video marketing coach. We take the “scary” out of video creation by providing easy frameworks (remember that checklist above? We’ll walk you through it, step by step).
  • Professional Website Integration: When your awesome LinkedIn videos get people interested, they’ll likely head to your website to learn more or contact you. Is your website ready to convert that traffic? CORE CONNECT builds modern, mobile-friendly websites that can seamlessly feature your video content. We ensure your site loads fast (even with video embeds), has clear calls to action, and is optimized to turn curious LinkedIn viewers into actual leads or customers. Our web design philosophy is all-in-one and user-friendly – whether someone finds you via Google or LinkedIn, they get a consistent, professional impression. And if you don’t have a blog or resource section yet, we can set that up so you have a home to expand on topics you mention in videos (great for those who want more detail in text form).
  • Analytics and Optimization: We don’t just set you loose; we stick around to see how things perform. CORE CONNECT will help you track the impact of your LinkedIn video efforts. That means looking at LinkedIn’s analytics and also seeing if there’s a bump in website visits, inquiry form submissions, or other engagement after your videos go live. We use these insights to fine-tune your strategy. For instance, if videos about “Charleston hospitality tips” are getting lots of love, we might suggest doubling down on that theme. Or if a certain kind of CTA isn’t prompting action, we’ll tweak it. Marketing is an ongoing process of improvement, and we’re your partner in that process.
  • Training and Consultation: Maybe you have a marketing team or an eager staff member who could take on the video role – fantastic! We can train your team on LinkedIn best practices and even the technical how-tos of filming and editing quick clips. With CORE CONNECT’s consultation, you’ll learn the ropes from folks who live and breathe digital marketing. We’ll teach you how to understand algorithms, how to encourage employees to engage with company posts (employee advocacy can boost reach), and how to maintain a content calendar. Essentially, we give you the tools and knowledge so you feel confident running with a video strategy long-term.
  • Beyond LinkedIn – Full Marketing Support: While LinkedIn video might be your focus now, CORE CONNECT can assist with all your marketing needs as you grow. Need to improve your Google ranking? Our SEO services have you covered. Want to run targeted ads (maybe even LinkedIn Video Ads)? We can manage those campaigns. Thinking about email newsletters to supplement your social content? We do that too. Because we’re an all-in-one solution, everything works together smoothly. The messaging we use on your LinkedIn videos can align with your website content, your email blasts, and so on, creating a cohesive brand presence. This consistency is key to brand recognition (which helps with trust and conversion rates).

Most importantly, CORE CONNECT is a local Charleston partner. We understand the Charleston and Mount Pleasant market, the culture, and the community. We’re not giving one-size-fits-all advice; we’re tailoring strategies to what works here, for businesses like yours. We know the local events, the lingo (“y’all” might slip into a friendly post!), and the value of a personal touch. Partnering with us means you get a team that’s as invested in your success as you are – when you win, we win.

So, if you’re excited about making LinkedIn video a part of your growth journey but want an expert co-pilot, give CORE CONNECT a call. Whether you need just a little guidance or full-service marketing help, we can scale to your needs. Let’s transform those video views into website visits, and those likes into leads!

(Curious about what CORE CONNECT can do for you? We’re just a click away. Check out our services on our website or schedule a free consultation. We’d love to chat about your goals and how we can help you connect the CORE elements of your marketing strategy for maximum impact.)

Conclusion: Lights, Camera, Action – Time to Embrace LinkedIn Video

LinkedIn video is more than a trendy feature – it’s a powerful medium that’s here to stay. As we’ve explored, it has transformed LinkedIn from a static, text-heavy platform into a dynamic space where Charleston businesses can truly shine. From understanding what LinkedIn video is, to seeing how it works with algorithms and autoplay, to recognizing why it matters so much in a relationship-driven market like Charleston, one thing is clear: video is a game-changer for small businesses. It’s authentic, it’s engaging, and it delivers messages in a memorable way.

For Charleston and Mount Pleasant entrepreneurs, this is a chance to get ahead of the curve. While some businesses are still hesitating, you can take the leap and start reaping the benefits of richer engagement and broader reach. Imagine more Charleston locals recognizing your face from their feed, more conversations sparked about your service, and more traffic flowing to your website – all because you shared a few videos packed with value and personality. The LinkedIn content strategy you build today could be the competitive edge that elevates your brand above others tomorrow.

We’ve given you the blueprint: from leveraging local events like the Good Business Summit for content, to mimicking the success of folks like Danny with “Video On Easy Mode,” to following a practical checklist to create your own videos. Now it’s time for the fun part – putting it into action! Start with one video. It could be a 30-second introduction of yourself and one tip to your LinkedIn network. Use that casual, clever tone – be you. Hit post, and see what happens. You might be surprised at the positive feedback. And don’t forget to engage with those who respond. You’re not just broadcasting, you’re opening a dialogue.

As you venture into LinkedIn video, keep the Gen Z-friendly mindset: be bold, be authentic, and don’t be afraid to show some personality. This isn’t about corporate perfection; it’s about genuine connection (with maybe a dash of Charleston charm). If a sixth-grader can understand and enjoy your video, you’re doing it right – because simplicity cuts through the noise.

Finally, know that you’re not alone on this journey. Whether you’re tech-savvy or tech-timid, you have resources. CORE CONNECT is ready to be your co-star in this video adventure. We’re passionate about helping local businesses succeed online and we believe LinkedIn video is one of the best tools to do it in 2025 and beyond. So, if you want that extra boost – from strategy brainstorming to SEO optimization and everything in between – we’re here to help you make it happen.

Ready for your close-up? The Charleston business community is waiting to hear your story and see what you have to offer. Grab that phone, share your first LinkedIn video, and let your business’s personality leap off the screen. And as you do, keep one eye on the results and one on the bigger picture of your marketing strategy.

Here’s to making waves (and amazing videos) on LinkedIn! Lights, camera, action – your small business’s big moment is now.

Interested in taking your LinkedIn presence to the next level? Learn more about how we can partner together at coreconnect.com. Let’s connect, collaborate, and create some LinkedIn video magic for your Charleston business!

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