LinkedIn is a popular social media platform used primarily for professional networking and career development. With over 750 million users worldwide, LinkedIn allows professionals to connect with each other, share content, and access job opportunities. One of LinkedIn’s key features is the ability to upload and share video content. When viewing videos on LinkedIn, they will automatically start playing after a few seconds – this is known as autoplay. But how long are LinkedIn autoplay videos?
The length of LinkedIn autoplay videos can vary depending on the creator and purpose of the video. Here are some key points on LinkedIn autoplay video length:
– LinkedIn currently allows videos up to 10 minutes long to be uploaded and shared on both desktop and mobile. So autoplay videos can be up to 10 minutes.
– The most common autoplay video lengths on LinkedIn tend to range from 30 seconds up to 2 minutes. Shorter videos tend to perform better at grabbing attention and driving engagement.
– LinkedIn recommends keeping videos relevant and succinct – getting your message across effectively within the first few seconds. More content-heavy videos may be better suited for non-autoplay scenarios.
– Certain content formats like tutorials, case studies and thought leadership talks can require longer videos of 5-10 minutes. But they should still be structured for short attention spans.
– LinkedIn autoplay occurs both in the main newsfeed and on LinkedIn Pages. The autoplay setting can be disabled by users, so critical info should be conveyed quickly.
– Some analyses suggest the optimal video length for viewer retention is around 1-2 minutes or less. But longer videos can still work if well-paced and compelling.
So in summary, while LinkedIn autoplay videos can be up to 10 minutes long, the ideal length is often between 30 seconds and 2 minutes. Keeping videos focused, engaging and easily digestible will lead to higher viewership and sharing. But there is still room for longer videos as needed for certain content formats or objectives.
Maximum LinkedIn Autoplay Video Length
LinkedIn currently allows for videos up to 10 minutes in length to be uploaded and autoplayed across its platform. Here are some key points:
– The 10 minute maximum length applies to both free and premium LinkedIn user accounts.
– It applies to videos uploaded directly to LinkedIn, as well as those embedded from external sources like YouTube or Vimeo.
– The 10 minute limit has been in place since around 2012 when LinkedIn increased from 5 minute videos.
– This maximum length allows users great flexibility in the style and depth of videos they can produce.
– Users looking to upload longer videos can split them into 10 minute parts and share as a series.
– Or long-form videos can be shared via links directing users off platform rather than relying on autoplay.
– The 10 minute autoplay video limit is consistent across both desktop and mobile apps.
– Some analyses show retention falls significantly after 1-2 minutes so 10 minutes is often excessive.
– But tutorials, talks, training videos may require lengthier content best suited to non autoplay.
– LinkedIn could potentially increase the limit again in future based on video consumption trends.
So in summary, LinkedIn has allowed 10 minute long autoplay videos for close to a decade now. This provides ample space for creators to produce compelling video content optimized for the platform. And it balances retaining user attention through autoplay while enabling access to longer-form content as needed.
Average & Ideal LinkedIn Autoplay Video Length
While LinkedIn allows autoplay videos up to 10 minutes, the ideal and most common length tends to be much shorter. Here are some key statistics and recommendations:
– The average autoplay video on LinkedIn is 1-2 minutes in length.
– General best practice guidelines suggest keeping videos under 2 minutes for maximum engagement.
– Shorter videos around 30-60 seconds can also perform very well in autoplay scenarios.
– Attention and retention typically start dropping significantly beyond 1-2 minutes for autoplay videos.
– However 5-10 minute videos can still be effective for certain formats like tutorials, case studies etc.
– Videos under 30 seconds may not provide enough context or value to be worthwhile.
– Aim to structure videos to communicate core message and value in the first 30 seconds.
– Consider spreading longer content over a short sequenced video series vs one long video.
– Research suggests the most engaging length is 1.5 minutes but up to 2-3 minutes is also highly effective.
– Longer videos can work if properly paced and broken down into short chapters or sections.
– Measure engagement, drop-off rates and completion rates to optimize video length over time.
In summary, while maximum length is 10 minutes, 1-2 minutes tends to be the ideal autoplay video length for LinkedIn based on maximizing engagement. But the right length also depends on your specific objectives and audience.
Length By LinkedIn Video Content Type
On LinkedIn, different types of autoplay video content lend themselves to different optimal lengths. Here are typical lengths by video format:
Company or Product Promotion:
– 30-90 seconds
– Quickly communicates key brand messaging or value proposition
Thought Leadership:
– 1-3 minutes
– Provides insightful or inspirational ideas but not overly salesy
Employee Spotlights:
– 1-2 minutes
– Gives a snapshot into company culture and workforces
Event Recaps:
– 3-5 minutes
– Captures key highlights and memorable moments
Tutorials & How-Tos:
– 2-10 minutes
– Provides step-by-step instruction but in digestible sections
Case Studies:
– 2-5 minutes
– Focuses on key details and takeaways from user stories
Listicles & Compilations:
– Up to 5 minutes
– Quickly covers multiple tips, ideas or points
In summary, the ideal length varies based on your content goals. From brief branded content to longer tutorials, focus on conveying value quickly and concisely.
Factors that Influence Ideal Video Length
There are a few key factors that influence the ideal length for LinkedIn autoplay videos beyond just content type, including:
– Audience – are they quick browsers or deep engagers?
– Position – beginning, middle or end of user’s scrolling session.
– Intent – is the goal entertainment, information or promotion?
– Audience size – smaller groups tolerate length more than large feeds.
– Platform – desktop or mobile viewing changes expectations.
– Story quality – high production value sustains attention longer.
– Interactive elements – polls, questions, links etc. add engagement.
– Subject complexity – simpler themes can be shorter versus deeper dives.
– Supplemental content – accompanying posts, links or assets extend value.
– Data on attention span, drop-off and completion rates for viewers.
– A/B testing different length variants.
– Overall video quality, pacing, structure and retention tactics.
Optimizing video length requires balancing many factors from audience preferences to the video’s purpose and quality. Testing different approaches and tracking engagement metrics will help refine the ideal duration.
Video Length Statistics & Trends
Recent statistics and trends provide some insights into current video viewing behaviors to inform ideal LinkedIn video length:
– General social video length has decreased over time, now averaging under 60 seconds.
– 52% of viewers will stop watching a video after the first minute.
– Videos under 30 seconds have the highest completion rates on social media.
– However 30-90 second videos tend to see higher overall engagement.
– Completion rates steadily decline as videos exceed 2 minutes in length.
– 85% of Facebook videos are under 2 minutes, the highest engaging length.
– Short videos under 15 seconds are growing exponentially on apps like TikTok.
– Mobile viewing tends to favor shorter videos than desktop.
– Interactive videos increase average ideal length as they sustain engagement.
– Younger audiences have shorter attention spans but crave authenticity over polish.
– Striking a personal, conversational tone keeps attention longer than overly formal styles.
So in summary, current trends point to shorter attention spans and higher engagement on succinct, interactive, candid videos under 2 minutes for LinkedIn. But companies can leverage longer videos through supplemental content or series as needed. Track performance data to optimize.
Tips for Structuring Longer Videos on LinkedIn
If you want to create effective autoplay videos longer than 2 minutes on LinkedIn, here are some helpful structure tips:
– Break down your content into logical chapters or segments of 1-3 minutes each.
– Start each segment with an overview of what will be covered to frame expectations.
– Use strong hooks at the beginning of each segment to capture attention like stories or questions.
– Include interactive elements like polls, quizzes or comment prompts between segments.
– Use clear transitions and summaries as you move between segments.
– Produce segments as separate videos that can stand alone if needed.
– Vary tone and visual style between segments to renew engagement.
– Wrap longer videos with recaps and calls to action to end strong.
– Supplement with external links, additional videos and other content for deep dives.
– Monitor drop-off rates and completion metrics by video segment.
– Optimize segment length, order and style over time based on performance.
– Keep segments concise focusing only on need-to-know information.
Following these tips will allow you to create longer videos that maintain strong viewing engagement across LinkedIn.
Examples of Long Videos Done Right on LinkedIn
Here are some examples of brands using long-form autoplay video effectively on LinkedIn:
– 3-5 minute thought leadership segments on topics like productivity, technology and culture.
– Divided into logical chapters each with an introduction.
– Strong visuals and graphics to reinforce points.
– Utilizes favorite wider-known speakers to draw audience in.
Salesforce
– Conference keynotes and webinars as 10-15 shorter chunks.
– Each has a distinct value prop and speaker intro.
– Remixes existing long-form event content.
– Links to full recording for deeper dives.
Adobe
– Series of 5 videos all 2-3 minutes on building a digital portfolio.
– Provides continuity and connects the sequence.
– Shares project files and assets to extend learning.
– Segmented for digestible skills-based instruction.
Forbes
– Lists and compilations structured as 5-10 quick 1-minute tips.
– Focuses only on key stats, facts, takeaway points.
– Uses strong visuals instead of talking heads.
– Skimmable and scannable for easy browsing.
In summary, long videos can absolutely drive engagement on LinkedIn by leveraging strong structure, segmentation, supplemental content and strategic hosting. Study what works for top brands and test different approaches.
Downsides of Long LinkedIn Videos
While long videos can work in some cases, it’s important to be aware of the potential downsides:
– Rapid drop-off after 1-2 minutes means lower completion rates.
– Harder to maintain audience attention and interest throughout.
– More resource intensive to produce quality lengthy content.
– Difficult to convey a focused, concise brand message.
– Easy for viewers to lose track of key points.
– Harder for audience to digest and recall main ideas.
– Viewers may lack context if they miss beginning.
– Much lower likelihood social sharing or visibility in feeds.
– More difficult to create content that stands out.
– Easier for people to comment without watching fully.
– Can come across as self-indulgent or promotional.
Understanding the above downsides allows creating a balanced approach on video length. In some cases, long videos may be right for your goals but also anticipate the cons.
Alternatives to Long Videos on LinkedIn
If keeping viewers engaged for 5-10 minutes proves challenging, here are some alternative strategies beyond a single long video:
– Short teaser videos under 60 seconds to grab attention.
– Serialized content as a sequence of short 2-3 minute videos.
– Interactive polls and questions to break up longer sections.
– Infographics and text posts to convey details not needing video.
– Blog posts, whitepapers or reports to explore topics more in-depth.
– Live demos and events for real-time engagement.
– Curated playlists of short videos viewers self-navigate.
– Inviting audiences to request extended video on specific topics.
– Linking out to full length videos on external sites like YouTube.
– Short quizzes or exercises for viewers to test knowledge.
– Slideshares or presentations to share more visual data.
– Recommending supplemental videos and content based on interests.
The above options allow brands to adapt their content strategy to balance short-form video engagement on LinkedIn while still providing access to longer content for those interested.
Best Practices For LinkedIn Autoplay Videos
Here are some best practices to optimize for success with LinkedIn autoplay videos:
– Hook viewers in the first 5-10 seconds with compelling visuals, questions or stats before diving into details.
– Structure content for skimmability – tight messaging, concise points, strategic text overlays.
– Include interactive elements like polls, quizzes or comment prompts to sustain engagement.
– Produce videos that stand alone rather than requiring other context.
– If repurposing existing content, adapt structure and pace for short attention spans.
– Use captions not only for accessibility but allowing muted viewing.
– Share videos natively on LinkedIn rather than just links for better visibility.
– Monitor analytics not just on views but completion rates, CTRs and engagement.
– Optimize thumbnail images and titles to entice viewers and convey value.
– Promote autoplay videos through Groups, Pages, influencers and Sponsored Content.
– Publish a consistent cadence of videos to build audience anticipation.
– Focus on quality over quantity – well produced, tight content over filler.
Following these best practices will help create autoplay videos that perform well and achieve your goals on LinkedIn. Test and refine based on data.
Conclusion
In summary, the ideal length for LinkedIn autoplay videos tends to be 1-2 minutes on average. This balances maximizing engagement with conveying your core message effectively. However, videos can range from brief 30 second brand clips to 10 minute tutorials if structured for short attention spans.
Understand your audience preferences, optimize for skimmability, and track performance data on drop-off rates and completion percentages. This will allow you to refine video length over time to both engage viewers while sharing substantive content. Leverage supplemental materials like blogs, slides and links to extend value.
While long videos have traditionally done well, current trends point toward brief, compelling content under 2-3 minutes for LinkedIn. But creative structure and segmentation allow you to adapt any long-form content into series tailored for platform viewing behaviors. Focus on quality over quantity and you can build avid video consumers regardless of length.
