Short-form content for TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube Shorts
Short-form video isn’t just a trend—it’s the present (and future) of content marketing.
Whether you're a brand, entrepreneur, or creator, mastering platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, LinkedIn, and YouTube Shorts is key to staying relevant and expanding your reach. But when it’s time to hit record, the big question hits: What should I post?
To help you stay creative and consistent, here are 20 short-form video ideas that work across platforms—and why they’re effective.
Repurpose Smart: Turn One Idea into Four
Before diving into fresh ideas, remember this golden rule: repurpose your content. One video idea can be adapted for multiple platforms with slight tweaks to tone, style, or duration. That’s how you stay consistent without burning out.
20 Short-Form Video Ideas That Work Everywhere
Quick How-To or Tip
Share one actionable tip that solves a specific problem.
- Example: “One easy way to improve your email open rates…”
2. Myth vs. Fact
Bust a common misconception in your industry.
- Great for platforms: LinkedIn and YouTube Shorts
3. Mini Case Study or Client Result
Share a real-life success story in under 60 seconds.
-Format: Before -After: Key takeaway
4. Behind the Scenes (BTS)
Show how something is made, built, or created.
- Bonus: Adds authenticity and trust
5. A Day in the Life
Perfect for personal branding or showcasing your company culture.
6. Before & After Transformation
Great for designers, coaches, consultants, or product-based businesses.
7. "Did You Know?" Quick Fact
Share an industry stat or little-known piece of info.
- Example: “Did you know 70% of users make buying decisions on mobile?”
8. Mini Tutorials or Tool Demos
Break down how to use a feature, app, or product.
9. Share Your POV on a Trending Topic
Add your voice to what everyone’s already talking about.
10. Client Testimonial Snippet
Clip a highlight from a longer testimonial video.
More Personal = More Engaging
11. What I Wish I Knew When I Started
Share advice you’d give your past self. Super relatable.
12. Biggest Mistake I Made
Vulnerability builds trust—and teaches others what *not* to do.
13. Show Your Process (Without the Fluff)
Time-lapse or step-by-step videos perform great on TikTok and Reels.
14. Mini “Storytime”
Share a quick story with a clear takeaway or aha moment.
15. Your Morning Routine or Favorite Tool
Personal + professional = high relatability.
Fast Formats That Don’t Require Much Editing
16. Text-on-Screen Tips
Film yourself and add 3-5 value-packed tips using on-screen text.
17. Reaction to a Trend or News
Stitch or react to someone else’s post (especially on TikTok).
18.*Listicle in 30 Seconds
“3 things you need to do before launching your product…”
19. Customer FAQs
Answer one frequently asked question in a super short clip.
20. This or That? Polls or Comparisons
Compare two options and ask viewers to vote or comment.
Tailoring for Each Platform
Each platform has a slightly different vibe:
- TikTok: Authentic, fast-paced, trend-savvy
- Instagram Reels: Aesthetic, polished, story-driven
- LinkedIn: Professional, insightful, value-first
-YouTube Shorts: Entertaining, tutorial-based, keyword-driven
Repurpose wisely by tweaking intros, hashtags, or CTAs to match the platform’s culture.
The key to short-form content success? Consistency > Perfection.
Don’t overthink. Focus on delivering value, being relatable, and showing up regularly. The more you post, the more you learn what your audience actually wants.
Pro tip: Batch your videos. Record 3–5 at a time, and schedule them across platforms. Less stress, more results.