How to Audit the First Three Seconds of a Reel
A strong video can fail because the first seconds are slow, unclear or visually empty. This audit checks whether somebody scrolling without context can understand why they should keep watching.
Run the five checks
- Watch with the sound off and ask whether the subject is clear.
- Pause on the first frame and check whether it contains movement, product or a useful visual.
- Read the opening text on a small screen and keep it away from interface controls.
- Remove greetings, logos and setup that delay the value.
- Check whether the spoken hook, text and visual all make the same promise.
Then show the opening to somebody who has not seen the brief and ask what they expect the video to deliver.
Do not confuse speed with random cuts. The opening needs clarity first, then pace. Compare three hook versions using retention, watch time, shares and relevant actions rather than choosing the most dramatic wording in an internal review.
Olivia Robinson
After arriving at a fork in the road in my career I decided to take the plunge and wander purposefully, with determination, into the maelstrom of consultancy in online sales. It's been the most exciting decision I've ever made and I've been able to work with some of the most interesting brands the UK has to offer. I specialise in the intersection of ecommerce and marketing, the part of the Venn diagram that eCommerce & Marketing people don't like to occupy because it takes a lot of plate spinning - this is where I thrive.
After arriving at a fork in the road in my career I decided to take the plunge and wander purposefully, with determination, into the maelstrom of consultancy in online sales. It's been the most exciting decision I've ever made and I've been able to work with some of the most interesting brands the UK has to offer. I specialise in the intersection of ecommerce and marketing, the part of the Venn diagram that eCommerce & Marketing people don't like to occupy because it takes a lot of plate spinning - this is where I thrive.
After arriving at a fork in the road in my career I decided to take the plunge and wander purposefully, with determination, into the maelstrom of consultancy in online sales. It's been the most exciting decision I've ever made and I've been able to work with some of the most interesting brands the UK has to offer. I specialise in the intersection of ecommerce and marketing, the part of the Venn diagram that eCommerce & Marketing people don't like to occupy because it takes a lot of plate spinning - this is where I thrive.
We will happily conduct a free, no-obligation audit on your digital channels, with several key takeaways you can action yourself or request for us to assist you with. It's completey free for now but it is a limited time offer.
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