We've all seen them before. A compilation of shots showcasing an event, product, or company, accompanied by generic background music. At HAMLIN, we call this type of video a sizzle reel. They can frequently be very visually compelling, but here's the problem: many times these reels don’t tell a story.  Most of the time, these reels lack an engaging opening or an overall “flow” of energy.  They may even be missing a logo, a call-to-action, or any form of branding. 

If you're investing time and resources into capturing videos and creating a sizzle reel, shouldn't you want it to be amazing? Drawing from my over two decades of experience in the Promo business, here's some things I’m always looking for in a great sizzle reel:

1. Find Your Hook: Every great sizzle reel has a hook. Whether you're pitching your new company or celebrating a successful experiential event, create a captivating setup that grabs your audience's attention from the start.

2. Include Interviews: I love it when reels Incorporate at least one interview, even if it’s just using the camera's built-in microphone. A skilled camera operator can ask a few questions and frame it up to capture genuine reactions from attendees or quotes from key individuals. Including interviews adds a personal touch and authenticity.

3. Tell a Compelling Story: Weave a narrative throughout your sizzle reel. Showcase how your event unfolded, the journey to its success, or highlight your latest product's features and the positive customer experiences it has generated. A story creates an emotional connection and keeps viewers engaged.

4. Less is More: Just because the music library cut is two minutes long doesn't mean your sizzle reel should be the same length. If you can convey your message effectively in a shorter duration, opt for brevity. A concise and impactful reel is more likely to hold your audience's attention.

5. Prioritize Clear Audio: If people are speaking in your reel, ensure their voices are audible. If the audio quality is poor or the dialogue is unintelligible, it's better to omit those segments from the final edit. Clear and intelligible audio is crucial to maintaining viewer engagement.

6. Provide a Call-to-Action: Give your viewers a clear action to take after watching the reel. Whether it's directing them to visit a website, offering a coupon, or encouraging them to engage further, provide an incentive that extends the connection. Define your desired outcome—more brand awareness, increased product sales, or expanding your customer base—and give viewers a reason to act.

7. Craft a Purposeful Ending: Don't let your video abruptly conclude. Just as stories have endings, videos should too, but they must be purposeful. Be creative in wrapping up your reel, leaving a lasting impression that resonates with your audience.

8. Optimize for Soundless Viewing: Many videos are consumed with the sound turned off, so consider this while editing. Provide visual notes or captions that convey the story effectively. Even a simple script can entice viewers to turn on the sound. Use dynamic music, make the editing visually engaging, and incorporate soundbites that support the script.

9. Utilize Graphics: Enhance the visual appeal of your sizzle reel by incorporating graphics. Even if you're using plug-in templates, graphics can add an extra layer of professionalism and aesthetic appeal to your video.

Following these steps, you can create a sizzle reel that not only looks great but impacts your bottom line.

Do you want some help in crafting a reel for your product, service, or brand? We’re here to help. We specialize in crafting compelling stories through a spectrum of visual content...including Sizzle Reels!