LinkedIn introduced cover story videos in February 2021 as a new way for members to express themselves and share more about their career, interests and personality. Cover story videos allow you to upload a video up to 30 seconds long to play on loop at the top of your LinkedIn profile. This can help showcase your skills, experience and interests in a more visual and engaging way.
Adding a cover story video to your LinkedIn profile is easy to do directly within the LinkedIn app or desktop site. However, there are some best practices to follow when creating your LinkedIn cover story video in order to maximize its impact. Read on to learn step-by-step how to add a cover story video on LinkedIn.
Benefits of Using a Cover Story Video
Here are some of the key benefits of using a cover story video on your LinkedIn profile:
– Makes your profile more dynamic and eye-catching. A brief video introduces you in a vivid, memorable way.
– Allows you to showcase your personality, interests and skills visually. You can reveal more of “the real you” through video.
– Improves your personal brand and makes you stand out. Video helps you go beyond just text and photos.
– Engages viewers and keeps them on your profile longer. People tend to be drawn to watch video when scrolling profiles.
– Conveys energy, confidence and authenticity. Moving footage and audio is more visceral than static text.
– Provides the ability to demonstrate your communication skills. How you come across on camera is revealing.
– Can highlight important career accomplishments, passions or causes. Choose meaningful content to share via video.
– Gives you more creative freedom to express yourself. Video offers flexibility beyond written self-descriptions.
– Allows you to include visuals like images, graphics and text overlays. This further enhances the story you can tell.
In summary, a cover story video enables you to share your background, personality and goals in a vivid, multimedia way. This can leave visitors with an engaging “show, don’t tell” introduction that brings your profile to life.
Cover Story Video Requirements
If you want to add a video to your LinkedIn cover story, there are a few requirements to keep in mind:
– **Video Length:** Cover story videos can be up to 30 seconds long. The time limit helps ensure videos stay focused and engaging.
– **File Size:** Videos should be less than 25MB in size. High definition video files can be large, so you may need to compress the file.
– **File Types:** LinkedIn supports common video formats like .MP4, .MOV and .AVI. Avoid uncommon formats that may not upload properly.
– **Aspect Ratio:** Use 16:9 widescreen orientation for best results. This horizontal rectangular ratio is ideal for LinkedIn’s profile banner size.
– **Content:** You cannot include audio or imagery in your video that violates LinkedIn’s user agreement and professional community policies.
– **Editing:** The video should be well-edited and convey your message quickly within the 30 second constraint. Avoid sloppy, amateurish production.
– **Originality:** You must own the rights to your video. Do not use copyrighted or unauthorized material. LinkedIn may remove inappropriate content.
Adhering to these requirements helps ensure your cover story video looks polished and optimized for the LinkedIn platform. Carefully craft an interesting video that makes an excellent first impression.
Creating Your Cover Story Video
Follow these steps to develop an appealing, effective cover story video for LinkedIn:
1. Write a Script
Identify the key messages, talking points and visuals you want to include in 30 seconds or less. Keep the script clear, concise and focused on your goals in making the video.
2. Storyboard Your Shots
Map out the framing, camera movement and scene changes visually. This helps communicate your vision and keeps the shoot organized.
3. Use Quality Production Equipment
Invest in good lighting, microphones, stabilization and high-resolution cameras if possible. Production value matters.
4. Shoot B-Roll Sequences
Capture supplemental footage of your work setting, products, services etc. This provides useful visuals to cut away to.
5. Record Yourself on Camera
Have someone film you clearly delivering your script. Capture multiple takes for editing options.
6. Add Graphics, Images and Text
Insert relevant illustrations, logos, screenshots and captions to reinforce your messaging.
7. Edit Down to 30 Seconds
Trim your shots and pace the video quickly but smoothly. Arrange clips for logical flow and emphasis.
8. Color Correct and Audio Mix
Use editing tools to adjust color, temperature, saturation and audio levels for a polished look.
9. Compress Your Exported Video
Render out your final cut in a compact, web-optimized codec like H.264 or MP4. Meet the 25MB size limit.
10. Watch and Fine-Tune
Review your video closely multiple times before uploading. Refine anything that needs improvement.
With these steps, you can produce an engaging cover story video ready to upload to LinkedIn. Keep polishing until the video effectively showcases your message and brand in 30 seconds.
Uploading Your Cover Story Video
Once you have a well-crafted cover story video ready to go, here is how to upload it to LinkedIn:
On Desktop:
1. Go to your LinkedIn profile page and hover over your current cover photo.
2. Click the pencil “Edit” icon that appears.
3. In the “Edit your profile” section, click “Add profile video.”
4. Select your cover story video file to upload.
5. Click “Save.” Your video will now be visible on your profile.
On Mobile App:
1. Tap your profile icon at the top of your LinkedIn app homepage.
2. Tap “View profile.”
3. Tap the pencil “Edit” icon in the profile banner area.
4. Choose “Add profile video” under “Background.”
5. Select your cover story video to upload from your phone.
6. Confirm by tapping “Save.”
Once uploaded, you can preview how your cover story video appears on desktop and mobile. Fine-tune as needed until you are satisfied. Share your updated LinkedIn profile with your connections to start maximizing the impact of your new video introduction!
Cover Story Video Best Practices
To ensure your LinkedIn cover story video leaves the best impression, keep these best practices in mind:
– **Hook viewers quickly** – Capture attention right away with lively visuals and energetic delivery.
– **Convey your value** – Communicate how you can add value rather than just facts about yourself.
– **Show authentic enthusiasm** – Let genuine passion and personality come through.
– **Use clean, simple backgrounds** – Avoid distracting or cluttered environments.
– **Have good lighting** – Ensure you are clearly visible. Use soft directional lighting.
– **Wear professional attire** – Dress appropriately for conveying your brand.
– **Speak clearly and slowly** – Enunciate well and pace your delivery for clarity.
– **Make eye contact** – Connect with the camera lens as you would another person.
– **Limit text** – Use sparing text overlays; let the visuals and narration tell the story.
– **Stay concise** – Stick to key messages that fit the 30-second limit.
– **End on a strong note** – Close with a compelling statement to drive your point home.
Master these tips for making a memorable cover story video that effectively showcases your personal brand on LinkedIn.
Cover Story Video Ideas and Examples
Not sure what to highlight in your LinkedIn cover story video? Here are some impactful video ideas and examples to inspire you:
Career or Industry Highlights
– Talk about your proudest career accomplishments.
– Show yourself excelling at what you do best.
– Discuss your leadership of key projects or initiatives.
– Share your unique perspective or approach in your field.
Passions and Interests
– Spotlight personal hobbies like sports, travel or volunteering.
– Show your participation in causes you care about.
– Display your creativity through art, music or other talents.
– Let your personality shine through humor or candid moments.
Company or Brand Messaging
– Explain the mission and values of your organization.
– Discuss the origins and evolution of your company.
– Show off your products, services, facilities or headquarters.
– Profile employees and company culture.
Calls to Action
– Encourage viewers to visit your website or enroll in a program.
– Motivate them to schedule a consultation call with you.
– Offer an eBook, tip sheet or other lead generation freebie.
– Ask them to follow your company LinkedIn page or other social media.
Check out these stellar real-world examples of LinkedIn cover story videos for inspiration:
[Example 1](https://www.linkedin.com/in/julienbraultprofile/)
Julien Brault introduces himself personally while cycling through different illustrated backdrops. His enthusiasm pops through the screen.
[Example 2](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6883816084446130176/)
This recruiter creatively guides viewers through her offerings using text captions and visual scenes. Her video immediately establishes expertise.
[Example 3](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6881699210923962368/)
Chelsea talks about her marketing agency while seamlessly walking through office scenes that reinforce her messaging. Short, fast-paced and polished.
Let examples like these inspire your own LinkedIn cover story video that grabs attention and effectively communicates your personal brand.
Cover Story Video Tactics to Avoid
While best practices can guide you in the right direction, here are some cover story video approaches to avoid:
– Overly salesy, self-promotional vibes
– Boring, lengthy, rambling delivery
– Shaky, poorly lit visuals
– Unprofessional appearance or attire
– Cluttered, distracting background
– Outdated information or irrelevant content
– Technical issues like bad audio
– Violating LinkedIn policies and agreements
– Featuring unauthorized copyrighted material
– Inauthentic, exaggerated impersonation
Dodging these pitfalls will help your video make a strong first impression and effectively reinforce your personal brand.
Conclusion
Adding a cover story video can take your LinkedIn profile to the next level with an engaging, multimedia introduction. Take the time to craft a high-quality, professional video that captivates viewers and conveys your story. Follow best practices for concept, scripting, shooting and editing. Keep it concise, polished and consistent with your personal branding. Then upload your video and monitor the reactions and results. A compelling cover story video can boost your visibility, demonstrate your strengths and bring your profile to life.