Guide to get started with shoppable videos

July 24, 2024
5 Min
Video Education
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Shoppable videos: The future of interactive shopping is here! (and It's awesome)

Are you still questioning the ROI of your product video investments? It's time to rethink the equation. Shoppable videos are poised to transform your product videos from mere visual assets into dynamic revenue generators.

Shoppable videos bring interactivity into your video content, bridging the gap between product discovery and purchase.

By embedding clickable tags within your videos, you transform passive viewers into active participants. This interactive experience not only boosts engagement but also accelerates the path to purchase.

Let’s explore how shoppable videos can revolutionize your marketing strategy.

What exactly are shoppable videos?


Think Instagram Stories meets QVC with a sprinkle of e-commerce magic. Shoppable videos are video content with clickable tags embedded throughout. These tags link directly to product pages on your website, allowing viewers to seamlessly transition from discovery to purchase – all within the same platform.

Why should you be using shoppable videos?

Shoppable videos can increase conversion rates by up to 30%. Yes, you read that right.

Here are some reasons shoppable videos are picking up with D2C brands and drop shippers.

  • Boosts engagement and conversion: Video is already king, but shoppable videos take it further. They capture attention, showcase products in action, and create a more immersive experience for viewers to take actions.
  • Frictionless shopping: Gone are the days of navigating complex websites. With shoppable videos, the purchase journey is just a tap away. Impulse buying? We got you covered.
  • Data-driven decisions: Shoppable videos provide valuable insights into viewer behavior. See which products get the most clicks? Tailor your future video content accordingly!

Who can benefit from shoppable videos?

The beauty of shoppable videos is their versatility. Here's who can leverage this marketing goldmine:

  • Ecommerce brands (Duh!): Showcase fashion trends, demonstrate tech gadgets, or unveil your latest homeware collection – all with clickable links for instant purchase.
  • Retailers: Breathe life into product descriptions with engaging video content. Let viewers "experience" your products before they buy.
  • Direct-to-consumer (D2C) businesses: Build brand awareness, educate customers about your products, and drive sales – all in one captivating video.

Types of shoppable videos

  • Product demos (E.g., Before vs After videos): These videos showcase how a product works, highlighting its features and benefits.

Imagine a video where a chef demonstrates a new kitchen gadget, with viewers being able to click on the gadget itself to be taken to the purchase page.

  • Customer testimonials: User-generated content featuring satisfied customers praising product builds trust and credibility. Shoppable testimonial videos let viewers learn about the product's real-world impact while allowing them to purchase it directly.
  • Shoppable live streams: This is like having a virtual shopping experience. Presenters showcase products in real-time, answer questions, and offer promotions, all while viewers can click to buy on the spot.
  • Traditional product ads: Short, attention-grabbing videos with clear calls to action can be made shoppable. Think of an engaging video showcasing a new clothing line with clickable icons on the items.
  • Catalog videos: Need to showcase a wide range of products quickly? A shoppable catalog video lets viewers browse multiple items in succession, with each one being clickable for a closer look and purchase option.

The road to shoppable video success

Just like any marketing strategy, success requires a plan. Here are some tips to ensure your shoppable video journey is a smooth and profitable one:

  • Know your audience: Tailor your video content and product selection to resonate with your target market.
  • High-quality production matters: Invest in good lighting, sound, and editing to create professional-looking videos that grab attention.
  • Clear & distinct calls to action (CTAs): Don't leave viewers guessing! Tell them exactly what you want them to do, whether it is visiting your website or clicking to purchase.
  • Track and analyze: Monitor your video performance and analyze click-through rates to see what resonates with your audience.

The winning formula: Live streaming + shoppable videos for e-commerce success

Forget the traditional shopping experience. Live streaming and shoppable videos are joining forces to create a dynamic e-commerce powerhouse. This innovative combo keeps viewers engaged and drives sales through a seamless blend of entertainment and instant gratification.

Imagine a live fashion show where viewers can click on the outfits they love and purchase them on the spot. Or a tech expert showcasing a new gadget with viewers able to ask questions and buy it directly through the stream. This is the magic of live streaming with shoppable videos.

Here is how it works:

  • Engagement powerhouse: Live streams captivate viewers with real-time interaction, Q&A sessions, and a sense of community. Brands can host fun and informative events like behind-the-scenes tours or product launch reveals, keeping viewers glued to the screen.
  • Frictionless shopping: Forget searching for products later. Shoppable elements embedded within the live stream allow viewers to purchase what they see instantly. This combined with the live format can create a sense of urgency, encouraging impulse buys.
  • Building trust: Live streams offer an unfiltered view of products, allowing viewers to see them in action and ask questions. Featuring product experts or brand ambassadors further fosters trust by providing valuable insights.
  • Flash sales and limited-time offer: Create a buying frenzy with exclusive deals available only during the live stream.
  • Product launches: Generate excitement for a new product with a live unveiling, allowing viewers to pre-order or be among the first to purchase.
  • Educational demos: Live demonstrations are a powerful tool for complex products, allowing viewers to see them in action and get expert advice in real time.

By combining live streaming with shoppable videos, you are creating a captivating shopping experience that not only boosts sales but also fosters brand loyalty and taps into the power of real-time interaction.

So, get ready to turn up the volume on your e-commerce strategy with this winning formula.

Going live with shoppable videos: A multi-platform approach

While directly live streaming shoppable videos across Meta (Facebook & Instagram), TikTok, and Twitter isn't currently possible (as of June 2024), here is a strategic approach to achieve a similarly engaging experience:

Embrace pre-recorded shoppable video:

  • Craft compelling videos: Create high-quality pre-recorded videos showcasing your products. Highlight features, benefits, and demonstrations to capture viewer interest.
  • Shoppable power: Integrate shoppable tags within these videos. This allows viewers on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to click directly on the product and be directed to the purchase page.
  • Shoppable power: Integrate shoppable tags within these videos. This allows viewers on platforms like Facebook and Instagram to click directly on the product and be directed to the purchase page.

Live Engagement on platforms with live shopping:

  • Choose your platform: Utilize platforms like YouTube Live Shopping or TikTok LIVE Shopping that offer live streaming with built-in shoppable features.
  • Live stream magic: Host your live shopping event on the chosen platform. Showcase products, answer questions in real-time, and create a dynamic and interactive experience.
  • Spread the word: Promote your live stream across all social media channels, including Facebook and Instagram. Include the live stream link or embed it on your Meta pages, driving traffic to the platform with live shopping features.
  • Shoppable link magic: For platforms like Twitter that offer live video but not direct in-stream shopping, include a shoppable link in your bio or pinned tweet. This allows viewers to easily access the products featured in the live stream.

Remember:

  • Clear communication: Clearly communicate where viewers can purchase the products throughout your pre-recorded videos and live streams. Use call-to-actions like "Shop Now" or "Link in Bio.
  • Engaging across platforms: Even if the live element happens elsewhere, encourage interaction on all platforms. Respond to comments, host Q&A sessions within the comments of your pre-recorded videos and leverage the strengths of each platform to maximize audience engagement.

By following these steps, you can create a compelling shopping experience that leverages the strengths of each platform, even without a single, unified live shoppable video stream across all platforms.

Multistream live shoppable videos with FastPix

While multistreaming shoppable content live directly across platforms may not be available in few platforms yet, to overcome this limitation FastPix offers an alternative to maximize your reach by helping you stream low latency pre-recorded shoppable videos on different platforms.

Imagine captivating product demonstrations with clickable tags seamlessly integrated. Viewers can instantly explore and purchase the featured items without buffering delays, keeping them engaged and ready to convert.  

With FastPix stream high-quality pre-recorded or live shoppable content displaying your products and integrate clickable tags within your videos, allowing viewers to effortlessly transition from discovery to purchase on your website or through social platforms.

Don't settle for imitations! FastPix offers a powerful solution to create dynamic shoppable video experiences and unlock your e-commerce potential.

Sign up for a free trial today and see the difference FastPix can make!

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