This Was LinkedIn's Most Important Update of 2024: Why Financial Advisors Should Embrace Short-Form Video

The most significant change to LinkedIn this year was the shift to video.

In a major app update, LinkedIn launched a new TikTok-style video tab dedicated to short-form videos. It's the latest platform to prioritize video content, recognizing its power to engage users quickly and effectively. If you’re a financial advisor looking to build a stronger digital presence, video is no longer a "nice-to-have"—it's essential.

Prospective clients want to understand your voice. They want to hear your expertise and whether you can explain things in ways they understand without reading a long article. That's why short-form video is becoming one of the most effective tools for building trust in the financial advice industry.

But if the idea of recording and editing videos sounds time-consuming and intimidating, don’t worry—you don’t need fancy equipment or high production to get started.

Let’s break down why video matters, how to embrace it, and some simple tips to make it work for you.

Why Video Matters for Financial Advisors

With attention spans shrinking and the demand for quick, digestible content growing, financial advisors must find new ways to connect with their audience. Short-form video is a game changer because it allows you to communicate your knowledge and personality in less time than a written article or lengthy email. Video is personal, engaging, and builds trust faster than almost any other medium.

By speaking directly to the camera, you can provide insights in a way that feels human. Your audience gets to experience your voice, your mannerisms, and your ability to explain complex topics in ways they understand—something no written post can fully achieve. This can be the difference between a prospective client scrolling past or taking the next step to reach out.

LinkedIn’s New Video Tab: A Huge Opportunity

LinkedIn's recent update, which features a tab solely for short-form videos, makes it clear: video is the future of networking and professional development. The platform has recognized that video can be a quick, accessible way for professionals to share insights and stay top-of-mind with their network.

This update comes at a perfect time for financial advisors. Whether you’re explaining market trends, breaking down investment strategies, or offering timely advice, short-form videos let you share valuable insights quickly. And because LinkedIn’s audience is already filled with decision-makers and professionals, your videos are much more likely to be seen by people who need your services.

Tips for Financial Advisors to Get Started with Video Content

Video can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how to make it simple and effective:

1. Keep It Simple: You don’t need a fancy production setup. A well-lit room, clear audio, and speaking directly into the camera are all you need to get started. The most effective videos are often the most genuine. The key is clarity—make sure your face is well-lit and your voice is easy to hear.
2. Use Simple Tools: Apps like CapCut allow you to trim or edit footage easily on your phone, meaning you don’t need a video editor. Focus on the message, not the production.
3. Shoot Vertically: LinkedIn, like many platforms, is mobile-first, so shoot your videos vertically (in a 9x16 aspect ratio) to optimize for mobile viewers. This makes your content more accessible and easier to watch.
4. Keep It Short: Short-form videos (90 seconds or less) perform better because they match people’s attention spans. Cut out dead space and unnecessary tangents—get to the point quickly.
5. Start with a Hook: Just like an article, your video needs to grab attention fast. Start with an interesting stat, a direct question, or a bold statement that encourages people to keep watching. For example, “Do you know the 3 most common financial mistakes people make when planning for retirement?”
6. Be Clear and Focused: Focus on a single topic per video to avoid confusing your audience. Whether it’s market updates, retirement strategies, or budgeting tips, keep your message clear and actionable.
7. Always Use Captions: Many people watch videos without sound, especially on platforms like LinkedIn. Captions not only make your video accessible, but they also provide a visual cue that keeps viewers engaged even when they can’t listen.
8. Be Authentic: People respond to enthusiasm and authenticity. Let your personality shine through and pick topics that you’re excited to talk about. The more genuine your approach, the more likely viewers will connect with you.

Overcoming the Time Barrier

Let’s face it: creating video content takes time. But the good news is that it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process. Here are a few time-saving tips:

• Batch Record: Dedicate one day a week or month to recording several short videos at once. This way, you always have content ready to post.
• Use Auto-Generated Captions: LinkedIn and other platforms offer auto-captioning features, saving you the hassle of manually adding subtitles.
• Repurpose Content: You don’t always need fresh ideas. Repurpose your blog posts, newsletters, or client FAQs into bite-sized video content.

By breaking it down into manageable tasks, video can become a part of your regular content strategy without taking up all your time.

Final Thoughts

In the world of financial advice, video is quickly becoming a must-have tool for building trust and attracting clients. Prospective clients want to understand your voice. They want to hear your expertise and whether you can explain things in ways they understand without reading a long article. Short-form video is the best way to deliver your message in a way that’s personal, relatable, and engaging.

So, take advantage of LinkedIn’s new video features and start creating simple, engaging videos that speak directly to your audience. With the right approach, you can build stronger connections, grow your client base, and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of financial services.

Still need help? Share Scoops Pro Content Suite offers simple scripts and expert support to help you create engaging and informative videos in minutes. Schedule a demo today!

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