Your research deserves the spotlight – learn how to share it on video
Many researchers find that, despite the depth and significance of their work, it often remains confined to academic circles – shared in PDFs or journals that don’t always reach wider audiences.
If you want your research to be seen, discussed, and remembered, it helps to communicate in ways that capture attention. One increasingly effective tool? Video.
Why video?
Video content drives engagement across platforms – and video leads the way. Whether you’re posting on LinkedIn, or other social media platforms, short and authentic video formats consistently outperform text-only updates. Videos can generate up to 3× more engagement, helping ideas resonate more deeply and reach wider audiences. They simplify complex concepts, spark meaningful conversations, and make your work more accessible – especially beyond academic or professional circles. In presentations, video adds energy, clarity, and keeps audiences engaged.
But video can feel intimidating.
- What do you say?
- How do you film it?
- What if you hate being on camera?
That fog of uncertainty is real. But the good news is, you don’t need to be a presenter or a tech expert to get started.
Three quick tips to help you begin
Here are a few simple ways to ease into video without overthinking it:
- Start with one idea – Don’t try to summarise your whole paper. Pick one insight, question, or surprising finding and build your video around that.
- Use natural light – Sit near a window and let daylight do the work. It’s flattering, free, and makes your video instantly more watchable.
- Speak like you’re talking to a colleague – Skip the jargon. Imagine you’re explaining your research over coffee. That’s the tone that draws people in.
Three essential elements to making a video
Creating a video that people want to watch comes down to combining three essential elements:
- Filming in a way your audience wants you to – Simple techniques like framing, lighting, and pacing can make a big difference in how your message is received.
- Editing to break free from single-clip monotony – Even basic editing – like trimming, adding captions, or combining clips – can help your video flow and hold attention.
- Storytelling that makes your work unforgettable – A clear narrative helps viewers connect with your research emotionally and intellectually, making it more memorable and shareable.
Want to go further?
If you’re curious to explore video more confidently, the C-DICE Smartphone Video Masterclass is designed specifically for researchers.
In four online sessions starting on 19 November, you’ll learn how to:
- Craft a compelling message
- Film with your smartphone – no fancy gear needed
- Edit with clarity and confidence
- Post with purpose to spark real engagement
Rob has helped over 100,000 learners turn complex ideas into emotionally resonant video stories. His work with The Guardian Masterclasses and LinkedIn Learning has empowered academics, professionals, and creatives alike.
This beginner-friendly workshop series is perfect for researchers with no prior video-making experience.
You will also earn the Videography Microcredential to help build your own bespoke researcher development pathway.