In short
- Videos longer than 60 seconds are gaining ground because platforms value watch time, not just views.
- Stories, vlogs, tutorials, reviews, analyses and behind-the-scenes content perform particularly well in long Reels and TikToks.
- Long-form content helps convey value, improve retention and strengthen brand storytelling within UGC marketing.
Long-form videos are gaining ground across all platforms, and it’s no coincidence. In this episode of TODO ES CONTENIDO, we discuss why the Instagram and TikTok algorithms are rewarding watch time, not just views, and how brands and creators can take advantage of this opportunity.
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Over the past few months, videos longer than 60 seconds have become a clear trend: users no longer just want quick stimuli, but complete stories, real processes and valuable content.
Discover which types of content perform best in long Reels:
- Stories with a narrative structure (problem → process → result).
- Vlogs such as “a day in my life” or “how I do X”.
- Step-by-step tutorials, comparisons and reviews.
- Opinions or analyses with storytelling (for example: “I tried Vicio’s strategy for 7 days”).
- Behind-the-scenes content from brands and creators. We also explain why long Reels and TikToks are key to UGC marketing, as are YouTube videos:
- They allow you to convey more value, context and emotion, improving conversion.
- They increase average retention, which algorithms reward with greater reach.
- They enhance authentic brand storytelling, beyond the typical advertising clip.
- They are ideal for UGC creators, who can showcase the product, the process and the transformation.
And if you’re considering adapting your strategy, here’s how:
- Always start with a strong hook (“What no one tells you about…”).
- Structure the video in three acts: problem, development and conclusion with a CTA.
- Use subtitles, fast-paced cuts and shorter versions for A/B testing.
Want UGC videos that work for your brand?
Create your free brand account and receive proposals from creators. You only pay per video.
Long-form content is back, but with a different purpose: retaining, engaging and converting. Get ready for what’s coming, because long Reels aren’t a fad: they’re the new standard. See other types of content and formats.
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🚀 An episode produced by HICARI.io, Spain’s leading UGC platform connecting brands with UGC content creators. Sign up for FREE now and connect with hundreds of creators!
Frequently asked questions
What types of content perform best in long Reels?
Stories with a narrative structure, vlogs, step-by-step tutorials, comparisons, reviews, analyses with storytelling and behind-the-scenes content perform well.
Why are long-form videos important for UGC marketing?
They allow you to showcase the product, process and transformation with more context and emotion. They can also improve conversion, increase average retention and strengthen authentic brand storytelling.
How can you adapt a strategy to long Reels and TikToks?
Start with a strong hook and structure the video in three acts: problem, development and conclusion with a CTA. Add subtitles, fast-paced cuts and shorter versions for A/B testing.
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