Using Short Video Clips to Drive Traffic and Profit from Your Blog

Produce short, useful video clips with visible branding and a clear call-to-action to drive viewers back to your blog. Post on multiple platforms (YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Instagram Reels, etc.), adapt format and metadata for discovery, edit with modern apps to add readable overlays, and follow platform rules. Monetization is possible through traffic, affiliate links, sponsorships, and platform programs - verify current eligibility and link policies.

Why short videos help your blog

Short, focused video clips are one of the fastest ways to reach new audiences and funnel them back to your website. Mobile cameras and free editing apps make it easy to produce clips that showcase a tip, a product, or a behind-the-scenes moment. The key is to make each clip useful or entertaining and to include a clear brand element so viewers know where to go next.

Plan clips with a clear call-to-action

Every mini video should include a concise call-to-action (CTA). Use a visible text overlay or watermark with your site name or brand, and mention where to find the full content (for example, "Full post at example.com" or "Link in bio"). Tailor the CTA to the platform: some platforms allow clickable links in descriptions or profiles; others do not - check the current rules for each platform .

Choose platforms and formats

Post your clips where your audience spends time. As of today, common options include YouTube (Shorts), TikTok, Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, Vimeo, and LinkedIn for professional topics. Format matters: vertical 9:16 works best for mobile-first platforms like TikTok and Reels; horizontal is still fine for YouTube and Vimeo.

Cross-posting broadens reach, but adapt captions, hashtags, and length for each network. Use platform tags, keywords, and relevant hashtags so your clip appears in searches and feeds.

Edit for clarity and branding

Use simple editing tools to add your URL or brand text, keep the overlay readable, and avoid covering essential visuals. Popular consumer tools include CapCut, InShot, iMovie, Premiere Rush, and DaVinci Resolve (free version available). Keep overlays unobtrusive: readable but not distracting.

Metadata, tags, and discovery

Write a short, keyword-rich title and description. Include your site URL where allowed and add 4-8 relevant hashtags that reflect the subject. These signals help search engines and platform algorithms surface your clips.

Monetize and measure

Short videos can drive direct traffic, affiliate clicks, newsletter sign-ups, and brand deals. Platforms also offer creator monetization programs, advertising revenue, or creator funds - but program requirements and payout rules change regularly. Check current monetization thresholds and eligibility for each platform ¹.

Consistency and compliance

Upload regularly and engage with comments to build momentum. Keep an eye on copyright, community guidelines, and ad policies; breaking rules can remove your content or suspend accounts. Respect privacy when recording people and obtain permissions as needed.

Final tip

Short video clips are a practical extension of blogging: they amplify your message, point viewers back to your site, and create new revenue opportunities when done consistently and transparently.

1. Confirm current clickable-link policies for major platforms (YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Vimeo).
2. Confirm current monetization eligibility and threshold requirements for creator programs on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.