The hook is everything
You have two seconds. Less. The first frame, the first word, that decides whether someone stays or scrolls. Here are 10 proven hook formulas.
10 hook formulas that work
1. The controversial statement: 'Short-form video doesn't work for B2B, unless you know this.' An opinion that creates friction keeps people watching. They want to know if you're right.
2. The number: '5 reasons why your Reels aren't getting views.' Numbers promise structure. People watch to complete the list.
3. The mistake: 'The biggest mistake we made in our first year.' People love honesty about mistakes. It feels safe and relatable.
4. The promise: 'After this video you'll know exactly what your next Reel should be.' A concrete promise at the start. People watch to claim the reward.
Ready to grow your brand?
Book a free call, no obligation.
5. The question: 'Did you know that 85% of Instagram videos are watched without sound?' Rhetorical questions activate curiosity.
6. The contrast: 'Last year: 400 followers. This year: 12,000. Here's how.' Before and after always works. It makes the result tangible.
7. The challenge: 'Try this: stop posting for two weeks and see what happens.' Writing out a challenge in the hook makes people curious about the answer.
8. The secret: 'What big brands do but never tell you about their social strategy.' Insider knowledge. People want to know what others don't.
9. The relatable situation: 'You post, you wait, you see three likes from your mum. Here's how that changes.' Recognition creates an immediate connection with the viewer.
10. Result first: 'We went from zero to 10,000 euros in revenue through Instagram. In 6 months. Here's how.' Start with the end result. People watch the rest to understand how.
How to apply this
Choose one formula per video. Test three different hooks with the same content. See which scores best on watch time. Build on that. Want help writing hooks for your brand? Book a free discovery call with Betterview.