How To Use Video in Blog Posts To Boost Engagement?
Last Updated on August 5, 2023 by Jordan Alexo
Are you ready to take your blog to the next level? You’re in the right spot! We’re going to talk about how to use videos in your blog posts effectively. So, you’ll learn how to transform posts from a boring block of text into more exciting and dynamic content.
By the end of this guide, you’ll be a pro at using videos in your blog posts. We’ll cover the whys, the hows and even tackle some common worries you might have.
Plus, we’ll share some actionable tips to increase engagement on your blog. So, are you ready to make your blog posts more engaging, shareable, and fun? Let’s shoot this pickle!
Why Use Videos On Blog? (3 Reasons)
Let’s check three rock-solid reasons to start using videos on your blog.
1 – Widespread Adoption
Videos are everywhere, and there’s a good reason for it. With smartphones in nearly every pocket, videos have become the go-to content for many.
In fact, online video is expected to make up more than 82% of all online consumer traffic. That’s a number you can’t ignore!
So why not join the party? I mean, your readers are already watching videos elsewhere; bring that experience to your blog.
2 – Gives Another Content Format
Some people don’t want to spend time reading through a blog post. They prefer to watch a video explaining the same info.
Adding videos to your blog retains visitors who prefer videos rather than written content.
3 – SEO and Analytics Tools
If you’re worried about the technical side of things, don’t be. Platforms like YouTube make it easy. Not only do they host your videos, but you also get access to millions of people on their platform.
Though, I’m later going to explain how to embed videos. It’s as simple as copy-pasting a YouTube link to your blog post.
3 Common Worries About Using Videos On Your Blog?
Let’s tackle those worries that might be holding you back from using videos.
1 – Can I Use a YouTube Video In My Blog?
Short answer? Absolutely, yes! Long answer? Still, yes, but with a cherry on top. See, YouTube is all about sharing, and embedding a video on your blog is not only allowed but also encouraged.
Plus, it’s free, and who doesn’t love free stuff? Just make sure to respect copyright laws and only use content you have permission to share.
2 – Will Videos Slow Down My WordPress Blog?
This one’s a common fear, but it’s mostly a myth. The fact is embedding videos from platforms like YouTube won’t slow down your site.
The video is streamed from YouTube’s servers, not yours, so your site isn’t affected.
3 – Will Videos Impact my SEO (Search Engine Optimization)?
Impact it? You bet but in a good way! Videos can make your content more engaging, keep visitors on your page longer, and boost your SEO.
So, those worries? Consider them busted. Using videos on your blog isn’t only doable but also beneficial in many ways. And the best part?
You can easily integrate them into your blog posts to make your content more interactive and give your visitors another option to consume your content.
Or in other cases, you may want to integrate videos from someone else to support your blog post and provide additional perspectives.
3 Ways To Embed Videos In Your WordPress Blog Posts
Okay, so now we killed some myths, and you probably have your fingers inching to know how to add videos to your blog.
Here are three ways to embed videos in your WordPress blog posts:
1 – Embed Videos With A Plugin
WordPress plugins like “WP Video Lightbox” or “YouTube Embed Plus” can make your life easier.
Just install one of these bad boys, follow the simple instructions, and bam! Your video’s live. And guess what?
Some plugins come with cool extras like responsive design, custom player controls, and autoplay options. So you can make your videos look unique and professional.
2 – Embed Videos Without A WordPress Plugin
No plugins? No problems! Sometimes, we don’t want to install more plugins. Typically they slow down your blog.
So an alternative is to copy the URL of the video you want to share and paste it into your post, and WordPress takes care of the rest.
3 – Embed YouTube Videos Directly
YouTube makes this one easy. Click “Share” under the video, then “Embed,” and copy that code.
Then head over to your WordPress post, add a “Custom HTML” block, paste your code, and voilà!
See, I told you it was easy. So, to customize your video player, you may want to install “WP Video Lightbox” or “YouTube Embed Plus.”
In case you prefer to keep things simple, either grab the URL from the video you want to embed or use the direct YouTube embedding method.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Well, mistakes happen, especially when you’re trying something new. But guess what? So let’s see some common video mistakes and how to dodge them like a pro.
1 – Embedding Issues
Ever tried to embed a video and ended up with a big mess? You’re not alone. But here’s the fix: double-check that URL, make sure it’s from a shareable source, and if you’re using a plugin, make sure it’s up to date. Usually, the fix is simple.
2 – Content Relevance
Videos are cool, but they have to match your content. Don’t just throw in a video because you can. Ensure it adds value, fits your theme, and speaks to your readers.
3 – Technical Pitfalls
Videos not playing? Buffering like it’s 1999? For this reason, test your videos and ensure they’re working properly, and if you’re self-hosting, see if your server can handle the bandwidth and load required for video playback.
5 Tips To Use Videos To Increase Engagement on Your Blog
So, now you know the why, the how, and even the mistakes to avoid. Let’s make your video content even more engaging:
1 – Create Video Tutorials
Got something to teach? Show it in a video! Whether it’s a cooking hack or a tech trick, a video tutorial can make learning fun and easy.
2 – Use Video Summaries and/or Vlogs
Want to keep them hooked? Sum up your blog post in a video or switch to a vlog format. It’s fresh, it’s engaging, and it’s a whole new way to connect.
3 – Add an “About Us” Video
A short video about you or your brand can turn a bland “About Us” page into something more interesting.
4 – Share Video Reviews
Got a product to talk about? Do it in a video! I often write product reviews and then create a video review. This lets me share the same content in different formats.
But also, I catch people who found my video on YouTube.
5 – Consistency and Strategy
This one’s big. Have a plan, stick to it, and keep your style consistent. It’s like building a brand but with videos. And trust us, your readers will notice.
Last Thoughts
And there you have it! Now you know the importance of including videos in blog posts. We’ve covered the whys and the hows and even busted some common worries.
You’ve learned how to embed videos, avoid common mistakes, and use videos to increase engagement on your blog.
So go out there and start adding videos to your blog posts to make them more interactive and exciting for your visitors. If you got any questions, leave them below, Jordan Alexo will reply shortly.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 – How To Add YouTube Video In Blogger?
Adding a YouTube video to your Blogger blog? You bet it’s a piece of cake! If Blogger is your platform, you’ve got two easy ways to do this.
First, you can open the post editor, click the video icon, and select YouTube. Type in your search or pick a video from your channel. Done!
The second way is for those who know a bit of HTML. Go to YouTube, open the video you want, click Share, then Embed, and copy that code. Back in your post editor, click the HTML button at the left corner and paste the code where you want it. Your YouTube video is now part of your blog.
2 – Which Is More Effective, Blogs or Videos?
The truth is, it’s not a one-size-fits-all game. Sometimes, videos are the stars and other times, blog posts take the crown. It all depends on what you’re aiming for. Engagement, social shares, SEO, lead nurturing – you name it, and there’s a place for blogs and videos.
Think about your audience and what resonates with them. Are they the reading type or the watching type? Consider the context, your skills, and even the time and budget you have.
So, what’s the verdict? It’s not about picking one over the other but embracing both. Use videos to grab attention and engage, and use blogs to rank for keywords.
3 – Is It Easier To Make Money On YouTube or Blogging?
So, you’re thinking about making some cash online and wondering whether to choose YouTube or blogging, huh?
Well, YouTube’s got the spotlight right now. According to ZipRecruiter, the average YouTuber earns about $60,000 annually, and starting a channel takes just a few minutes.
You can film, upload, and potentially earn money more quickly, especially if you catch those trending waves. But wait, blogging’s got its charm too! Bloggers make an average of $45,000 per year, and though it takes longer to set up and grow, blogs have the potential to blossom over time.
Plus, you’ve got more control over your content and SEO. So, what’s the final word? If you’re looking for a quicker return and love being in front of the camera, YouTube might be your thing.
But if you enjoy writing and have patience, blogging could be a better option. Anyway, you can always go for both and that way you don’t need to choose one over the other.
4 – Why vlog instead of blog?
Well, vlogs, or video blogs, are visual, engaging, and can bring a topic to life. Some subjects are better to experience visually, like a cooking recipe or a tech tutorial.
So, vlogs can make those dry topics more digestible and insightful. Plus, if you’re aiming at a younger audience or topics that need lots of visual support, vlogging might be fantastic.
Now blogs have their pros too. They’re great for SEO, and Google loves them. Even if you’re leaning towards vlogs, having an active blog can boost your site visitors and make linking to your products or services easier. And guess what?
You can always add videos or images to your blog post to make them more appealing.
So, what is the choice between vlogging and blogging? It’s not an either-or; it’s a blend of both. Consider your topic, audience, personal qualities, and resources; you’ll find the perfect mix for your content.
