You’ve got 1.7 seconds.

That’s how long the average user spends looking at a piece of content on their feed. That’s less time than it takes to blink twice. If your video doesn’t stop the scroll in that tiny window, you’re invisible.

Social media isn’t just crowded, it’s a non-stop sprint of dancing cats, gym transformations, and brands shouting over each other. So how do you cut through the chaos and actually connect? With video that’s short, sharp, and impossible to ignore.

In this article, we’re diving into exactly what makes social video work. What grabs attention. What makes people stay. And most importantly, what makes them tap, comment, share, or hit that sweet little follow button.

We’ll share real tactics, quick wins, and proven formats that convert passive scrollers into engaged fans. If you’re a business looking to grow on social media (and let’s be honest, who isn’t?), this is your playbook.

Let’s break down the science, and the art, of scroll-stopping social video.

Why Social Video is Non-Negotiable

If you’re still debating whether video should be part of your social strategy, let us save you the trouble: yes. Social video is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s a must. According to Wyzowl, 91% of businesses use video as a marketing tool in 2024. Why? Because it works.

Videos generate more shares, engagement, and conversions than any other type of content. On platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts, video is the language. And if you’re not speaking it, you’re not being heard.

The Anatomy of a Scroll-Stopping Video

So what separates a scroll-stopper from a scroll-past? Here’s what we’ve learned creating social videos at Surrey Films:

• Hook Fast: You’ve got the first 2 seconds to grab attention. Use motion, text overlays, or a bold statement.

• Keep It Short: 15–30 seconds is the sweet spot. Get in, get out, leave them wanting more.

• Add Captions: Most people watch without sound. Subtitles = accessibility + engagement.

• Mobile First: Always shoot and design for vertical. That means 9:16, not 16:9.

• Clear CTA: What do you want them to do? Like, share, save, swipe up, click the link? Say it.

Content That Actually Connects

Not all video is created equal. You don’t need to go viral, you need to be valuable. Here are formats that consistently deliver:

• Behind the Scenes: People love seeing the human side of your brand.

• Tutorials & How-To’s: Solve a small problem, and you’ll earn big trust.

• Customer Testimonials: Real people, real results. Authenticity > perfection.

• Product Demos: Show how it works, why it matters.

Each of these styles can be easily adapted into snappy, social-first videos that match your brand tone.

Consistency Beats Perfection

One viral hit won’t build your brand. A steady stream of useful, entertaining content will. That’s where partnering with a production team (hi, that’s us) can make a real difference. At Surrey Films, we help brands plan, produce, and perfect social content that drives engagement, without you needing to juggle a camera, a ring light, and your actual job.

Let’s Make It Happen

If you’re ready to build your online presence and connect with your audience through engaging, high-quality video, you’re in the right place. Whether it’s one video or a full campaign, we’ll help you craft content that cuts through the noise and delivers results.

Let’s make something scroll-stopping together. Book a free chat with Surrey Films today.