Get this, in a post-pandemic world, as much as 58% of respondents reported using video to learn a new skill while the global corporate e-learning is expected to be worth $50 billion by 2026.
In general, videos that explain things are increasing in popularity. This is one of those trends marketers and business owners should take advantage of because it can directly affect your bottom line.
In fact, in a survey we conducted this year, 76% of consumers said that product/service explainer videos helped them make a buying decision. They are also great at keeping brands top of mind.
But it doesn’t end at explainers. You can also make instructional videos.
The difference between the two is primarily the fact that explainers are short marketing videos that simplify complex products for audiences.
Instructional videos, on the other hand, aren’t marketing videos. Their intent is to show the viewer how to do something or use something in a step-by-step way.
These types of videos can run longer than your average explainer, and they’ve made it easier for people to learn remotely.
If you can make your instructional videos educational and entertaining, that’s even better.
Now let’s get into some examples. Our selection will give you ideas for the type of content you can make for your business.
Examples of instructional videos
1. The Most Epic Safety Video Ever Made – Air New Zealand
In this instructional/training video, Air New Zealand provides safety instructions for passengers and cabin crew.
The production quality is amazing and we love the fact that the Lord of the Rings crew members makes an appearance.
2. Edgar Wright – How to Do Visual Comedy – Every Frame a Painting
In the video, Tony Zhou explains how Edgar Wright choreographs his comedy sequences by incorporating clean and sudden visual transitions.
It’s a very informative piece of content and the voice-over makes the video easily understandable.
3. Droplet instructional videos
Droplet’s solar panel instructional video is to the point and easy to understand. The company has created a series of instructional videos to show people how to use the product and how to set it up properly.
4. Nelson Labs | Verified Mark
Here’s an explainer video that our team created for Nelson Labs. It shows people how to find the right kind of face mask for protection.
If you liked the video and want something like it, get in touch. Our team would love to help.
Talk with a video strategist
5. How to Make Pan Pizza – You Suck at Cooking
In the video, the presenter shares his homemade recipe for a pan pizza. We love the creator’s jarring humor. It makes his videos stand out. The narration and comedic timing are on point.
So, what do you think? Feeling inspired yet?
If you’re still not sure what direction to go in, understanding the different types of instructional videos may help. Keep reading for more.
Types of instructional videos
1. Tutorials/lectures
Tutorials are the type of videos that share extensive knowledge on any topic, subject, product, or software. They can be done in a live-action, presentation, whiteboard animation, or a combination of different styles.
2. Screencast videos
These types of videos show the instructor’s screen as they perform actions. They are normally accompanied by a voice-over/narration of the steps happening on-screen along with any explanation or tips necessary for the viewer.
3. Training videos
Training videos are great for upskilling your team. These could be used to teach technical skills, improve people’s interpersonal skills, or a combination of both.
Best practices for creating an instructional video
Now that you know the types of different instructional videos you can sink your teeth into, it’s time to learn some of the best practices that you can follow to create your own.
1. Know your audience
Before you make any kind of video, you have to clearly define and understand the target audience. This will help you get your tone, messaging, and video style just right.
2. Keep it simple and easy to understand
Some companies make the mistake of adding fancy words and jargon in the messaging. Doing this only makes it harder for the viewer to understand what you’re saying. And if your instructional videos are too complex, people will tune out; so keep it simple.
3. Select a video style
When it comes to styles for your instructional video, you can either go the animated route or the live filming route. There are plenty of different styles within the animation category, too, such as 2D, 3D, 2.5D, and whiteboard animation to name a few.
What you pick will depend on your timeline, budget, your brand identity, and your goals.
4. Have a distribution strategy
A professionally made instructional video is a valuable asset. Make sure you showcase it properly, perhaps on your website.
You can also create video snippets tailored to different social media to share with your audience. This will give you a chance to engage with your followers and get more eyeballs on your video.
5. Try to have some fun with it
A fun way to do instructional videos is to inject some humor into them or make the content more dynamic.
You could try adding a funny skit or an interactive session in the video to make your overall message more memorable.
Final thoughts
Captivating your audience through instructional videos is a great opportunity for brands. And it’s not as complicated as you might think.
Work with a video production agency to see what works for your brand. And if you are still scratching your head about how and where to start, then don’t fret. Contact our video strategists and get started!