In any workplace, communication is the thread that keeps everything running smoothly. While emails, chats, and meetings have their place, internal communication videos are quickly becoming a favorite tool for companies looking to engage, inform, and align their teams. These videos aren’t just flashy additions—they’re powerful instruments for building culture, sharing information clearly, and keeping everyone on the same page, no matter where they’re working from.
Let’s explore how internal communication videos are changing the game in workplaces of all sizes, why they work so well, and how you can use them effectively.
Why Internal Communication Videos Work So Well
There’s a reason video content dominates everything from marketing to social media—it’s engaging, easy to understand, and often more memorable than reading a wall of text. Those same benefits apply to internal communications.
Here’s why videos are such a game changer inside organizations:
- They’re more engaging than emails
People are more likely to watch a short video than read a long message. A well-made internal video can hold attention better than even the most carefully crafted email. - They deliver complex information clearly
Whether you’re explaining a new process or rolling out a policy change, video helps make things more understandable. Visuals, voice tone, and pacing work together to eliminate confusion. - They’re great for remote or hybrid teams
When your team is scattered across locations or time zones, a video message ensures everyone gets the same message at the same time. - They feel more personal
A video from the CEO or a team leader adds a human touch. It’s easier to convey emotion, sincerity, and energy when people can see and hear the speaker. - They help with retention
Employees are more likely to remember what they saw and heard in a video than what they skimmed in a memo.
Whether it’s a message from leadership, a product update, or onboarding material, internal videos help companies communicate more effectively with their people.
How Companies Use Internal Communication Videos
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Companies use internal communication videos in a variety of ways depending on their goals and culture.
Here are some common and effective uses:
- Executive updates
Instead of a lengthy memo, a short video from a top executive can communicate company performance, goals, or challenges with more clarity and transparency. - Onboarding and training
Video content helps streamline the onboarding process. New hires can learn about company culture, benefits, tools, and expectations through consistent, repeatable content. - Company-wide announcements
Launching a new product? Merging with another company? Major shifts deserve more than just a written note—videos add weight and personality to these messages. - Recognition and celebrations
Celebrate team wins, anniversaries, or standout employees with a quick, upbeat video. It helps build morale and a sense of belonging. - Policy updates or procedural changes
When processes change, a simple walkthrough video can prevent misunderstandings and reduce the need for follow-up questions. - Event promotions or recaps
A quick teaser for an upcoming event or a recap of a recent one keeps everyone in the loop and boosts engagement. - Crisis communication
During uncertain times, video allows leaders to communicate with empathy and clarity—two things that are sometimes hard to convey in written updates.
In short, internal communication videos can be used at any touchpoint where clarity, engagement, and alignment matter.
Best Practices for Creating Internal Communication Videos
Creating effective internal videos doesn’t mean you need a Hollywood-level production team. With the right approach, even simple videos can have a big impact.
Here’s what helps:
- Keep it short and to the point
Attention spans are short. Aim for 2–5 minutes unless you’re doing a deeper training or onboarding piece. - Be authentic, not perfect
A polished video is nice, but employees value realness over a slick production. Don’t be afraid to show some personality or informal moments. - Have a clear message
Before you hit record, know what you want to say and why. Stick to one topic per video to avoid overwhelming viewers. - Add captions
Many people watch videos without sound, especially if they’re in shared or public spaces. Captions also help with accessibility. - Choose the right format
Not every video has to be a talking head. Consider screen recordings, animations, slides with voiceover, or even a montage of team members contributing. - Make it easy to find
Host videos in a central, accessible platform—like your intranet or internal video library—so employees can revisit them when needed. - Track performance if possible
If your tools allow it, keep an eye on view counts, completion rates, and feedback. This helps you improve future videos.
By focusing on clarity, authenticity, and accessibility, your internal communication videos will resonate better and actually get watched.
When to Use Video vs. Other Communication Tools
It’s tempting to switch everything to video once you see how effective it can be—but sometimes, other formats make more sense.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
Use Video When… | Use Text (Email/Chat) When… |
You need to explain something complex or nuanced | You’re sharing quick updates or reminders |
You want to build emotional connection | You’re documenting detailed instructions |
The message is coming from leadership | You’re communicating with one person or a small group |
You’re onboarding or training employees | You’re giving info people need to scan or reference |
You want to boost engagement or morale | You’re doing real-time communication |
The best approach is often a mix—maybe you send an email with the key takeaways and link to a video for more context. Give people options to consume content in the way that works best for them.
FAQs About Internal Communication Videos
What tools are best for making internal communication videos?
There are many great tools, depending on your needs. Loom, Vidyard, and Camtasia are popular for quick, screen-recorded videos. For higher production, teams might use Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, or even just Zoom recordings with some light editing.
Do internal videos need to be professionally made?
Not at all. In fact, many employees prefer authentic, lightly edited videos. The key is to be clear, personable, and relevant. A smartphone camera or webcam is usually enough.
How often should we create internal communication videos?
It depends on your goals and company culture. Some companies do weekly video updates, while others create videos for major announcements or events only. It’s important not to overdo it—quality and relevance matter more than frequency.
How long should internal videos be?
Short and focused is best. Aim for 2–5 minutes when possible. If it needs to be longer (like a training video), consider breaking it into segments.
How do we make sure employees actually watch the videos?
Make them engaging, relevant, and easy to access. Include captions, keep them short, and deliver them through familiar platforms (email, Slack, intranet). You can also include a short summary or teaser to spark interest.
Can internal videos help with employee retention?
Yes, they can. Videos help employees feel more connected to leadership and the company’s mission. They also show transparency, which builds trust. When people feel informed and included, they’re more likely to stay.
Conclusion
Internal communication videos are more than just a trend—they’re a practical way to connect with your team in a world where clarity, engagement, and flexibility are more important than ever. Whether you’re onboarding new hires, rolling out changes, or simply sharing a moment of recognition, video makes those moments stick.
You don’t need fancy equipment or a full production team to start. A clear message, an authentic tone, and a bit of planning go a long way. And when used thoughtfully, internal communication videos can make your workplace feel smaller, more connected, and more aligned.
If you’re not already using video to communicate internally, it’s worth giving it a try. Start small, learn what resonates with your team, and build from there. The results might surprise you.