How to Create Social Media Video Ads
Social media video ads are the highest-performing ad format across platforms. They stop the scroll, communicate value fast, and drive clicks. Here's how to create them — from strategy to execution.
Platform-Specific Requirements
TikTok and Instagram Reels: 9:16 vertical, 15-60 seconds, native feel. YouTube Shorts: 9:16, under 60 seconds. LinkedIn: 16:9 or 1:1, professional tone, 15-30 seconds. Facebook/Instagram Feed: 1:1 square, 15-30 seconds. Each platform rewards content that feels native to the feed.
The Hook-Value-CTA Framework
Every effective video ad follows this structure. Hook (first 3 seconds): Ask a question, make a bold claim, or show a surprising visual. Value (next 15-30 seconds): Show your product solving a real problem. CTA (final 5 seconds): Tell viewers exactly what to do next — sign up, visit, download.
Creative Best Practices
Use text overlays — 85% of social video is watched without sound. Show your product UI, not just talking heads. Use contrast and motion to stand out in the feed. Keep branding consistent but subtle. Test multiple versions and let the algorithm pick the winner.
Producing at Scale
The biggest challenge with video ads is volume. You need 3-5 creatives per campaign to avoid ad fatigue, across multiple platforms. QuickPromo solves this by generating promo videos from your landing page in 60 seconds — create multiple variations without a production team.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the ideal length for a social media video ad?
15-30 seconds for paid ads, up to 60 seconds for organic content. Shorter ads have higher completion rates, which platforms reward with better distribution.
Do I need a video production team?
Not anymore. Tools like QuickPromo generate professional promo videos from your landing page URL in 60 seconds. You can produce at the scale of a production team without the overhead.
Which platform should I prioritize?
Go where your audience is. B2B: LinkedIn and YouTube. B2C: TikTok and Instagram. Direct-to-consumer: Facebook and Instagram. Start with one platform, prove it works, then expand.
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