How to Hook Your Audience
You’ve got 7 seconds. That’s what I used to tell myself in sales whilst on the phone or face to face.
Online? It’s the same game. Only faster. Louder. And scrollable.
Whether it’s your video, ad, website, or social post, your audience is making snap decisions. The algorithm doesn’t wait. And neither does your prospect.
Let’s break down how to win those first 7 seconds, and why it’s the difference between content that converts and content that’s invisible.
Stop the viewer from scrolling
You need visual disruption. Break the pattern of brain rot content.
Unexpected movement or sound
A bold dynamic visual that captures attention
Starting mid-action instead of with a boring intro of your logo
Foreshadowing the outcome
The goal being to stand out from everything else that the viewer is scrolling away from.
Open with tension or curiosity
Humans are wired to resolve tension. Use that.
Open with a question your audience is already asking:
“Why do 90% of small business videos never get seen?”
Make a bold claim or hook:
“If your first 3 seconds suck, the algorithm buries you.”
Or create an open loop:
“Most creators are making this one mistake and don’t even know it.”
Ultimately, you need to give the viewer a reason to stick around.
Lead with emotion, not explanation
Logic is for later. Emotion hooks first.
Fear of missing out
Frustration (“You’ve tried everything, and nothing works…”)
Relatability (“You’re not alone. I used to hate being on camera too.”)
Make them feel seen before you try to teach them anything.
Set the expectation
Attention is earned, but trust is built with clarity.
Tell them exactly what they’ll walk away with:
“In the next 60 seconds, I’ll show you how to fix your hook so the algorithm actually pays attention.”
Tell them the value, then deliver it.
Cut the bloat
No intros. No logos. No “Hey guys!”
Not in the first 7 seconds.
The harsh truth? Nobody cares who you are… until you prove you’re worth watching.
Give them value before you ask for attention.
Mirror the buyer’s energy
Just like in sales, match the mindset of the person watching.
Talking to tradesmen? Be straight, no fluff.
Targeting overwhelmed business owners? Be clear and calm.
Speaking to creators? Be bold, a little fun, and punchy.
Speak their language, not yours.
Track & tweak ruthlessly
Watch your retention graph.
Where are they leaving? What’s working?
Don’t just “post and hope”. Test and sharpen.
Turn 7 seconds into a system, not just a fluke.
Conclusion: It’s your first impression
Whether you're making a cold call or crafting a Reel, the rule doesn’t change: First impressions stick.
You don’t need to be perfect.
But you do need to be intentional with the visual, the hook, and the energy.
Make your first 7 seconds unskippable.
