Why social media loves video (and why you should too)

I was asked this question today

Usually, the person sighs and adds that a social media platform has “gone all in” on something…

For example:

• “Why has LinkedIn gone all in on video?”

• “Why has Instagram gone all in on reels?”

The answer is simple: storytelling

Every post on social media, whether it’s Instagram, LinkedIn, or any other platform, needs to add value

By that, I mean it should educate, provide insight, help, encourage, or support, etc

I know many people think a brochure or case study achieves that

Of course, you’re excited about them, they pay the bills! But put yourself in the buyer’s shoes: they see the same old message, “buy our product because we’re great.” 

That’s why these posts are ignored

Every type of post, photo, written blog, or video, must tell a story

And video gives you options you can’t get anywhere else

For example, I’ve just returned from Chile and Easter Island

In Santiago, the capital of Chile, there’s a funicular railway. I could:

• Post a photo, maybe a selfie with the city behind me

• Write about it, sharing that I’m not great with heights and find things like this scary

• Or take a short 10–20 second video

Video gives you more than a photo or written word

You can see movement, hear sounds, the child shouting with excitement, it’s a completely different story

Video allows you to tell your personal and professional story in a richer, more engaging way

It’s a better way to start conversations and establish authority

Conclusion:
That’s why video and reels need to be part of your content mix

They don’t just tell a story, they make your story unforgettable