When used correctly, intros and outros can be powerful tools that reinforce branding, hook viewers and compel people to take action. However, not all videos need them. Learning how to craft compelling intros and outros—and when to let your video speak for itself—can make all of your video content stronger.
Hook viewers with an intriguing intro
Short but interesting intros help set the stage for your video and let the viewer know what to expect. These clips shouldn’t be long—even a second or two can convey what you need to for your intro.
Typically, video intros use logos, brand names and other brand-specific animations or clips to reinforce your brand identity. These things put a “stamp” on your video that lets the viewer know you’re behind it and introduces the tone of what they’re about to see.
Intros can be placed in the first few seconds of the video or after a few seconds of video content that serves to hook the viewers. The intro you use might depend on the type of video you’re producing. An educational video series might include a 10-second intro clip specific to that series, while a video ad might simply showcase an animated brand logo before diving into the ad’s story.
Spur action with an outro
Capping videos off with an outro gives you the opportunity to reinforce your brand once again but also to direct viewers with a
call to action. Many video ads use brief outros as a way to link the story they told to their brand name and logo—especially if nothing in the ad pointed to their company specifically.
Like intros, outros don’t need to be long. A few seconds is all you need to point viewers in the right direction. The key here is to make the outro simple and direct.
On regular video content or a series, you might use an outro template that encourages a particular action—for example, urging viewers to like, comment and subscribe. Ads might include a phone number or website for viewers to visit to learn more about your products or services.
Not all videos need intros and outros
Although intros and outros can strengthen your videos—providing additional brand awareness, trust and engagement—they’re not always appropriate. In fact, in some cases, intros or outros can distract from the message you’re trying to send.
Intros are most appropriate for informative video content and video series, so customers know what they’re watching and who the information is coming from. This applies to branded education and demo videos.
Intros are not as necessary on ads or videos that tell a story. You’ll want to save those first precious seconds for opening frames that draw the viewer into the story, rather than your brand.
Crafting consistent and compelling videos
If you do use intros and/or outros on your videos, the key is to make them consistent and visually interesting. Make sure that both fit with your
brand design. Use your usual colors, logos, music, sound effects and animation styles, so that viewers can instantly recognize your brand.
If you plan to use intros or outros regularly, it’s also smart to use the same clips across all your videos that feature them. That way, they become a regular part of your video marketing strategy and boost brand recognition even more.
Whether you need a compelling intro and outro or an entire ad produced, Spin Creative can help craft comprehensive video content that speaks to your brand.
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Spin Creative is a video production company and creative agency helping marketers create winning video and creative strategies that engage, inspire and activate targeted audiences. Spin is headquartered in Seattle with offices in San Francisco and London, serving brands around the globe.
