Video will continue to lead digital engagement in 2026. But brands aren’t winning because of high production value alone. They’re winning because video makes connection easier. And connection is what drives brand affinity.
Here’s how to use video to strengthen your audience relationships this year.
Brand affinity happens when people feel aligned with who you are and what you stand for. It's emotional. It's personal. It's what turns customers into fans and fans into advocates.
Video delivers all of that in seconds.
More importantly, it creates an emotional impression that static content rarely matches.
Affinity shows up when viewers think:
“This brand understands us.”
“I trust what they’re saying.”
“This feels like a good fit."
Video helps you get there through voice, expression, story, and authenticity — all working together to build trust.
Brand Story Videos
Share your "why," introduce your people, and give viewers a reason to believe in your brand.
Customer Testimonials
People trust people. Let happy clients do the talking with authentic, story-driven testimonials.
Short-Form Social Videos
Quick, casual, and consistent — great for staying top-of-mind on platforms like Instagram Reels, TikTok, or Facebook.
Explainer or Demo Videos
If your product or service needs context, show it in action. These videos reduce friction and boost understanding.
Event Recaps
Capture the energy of your event and keep the momentum going long after it ends.
Be consistent. Showing up regularly matters more than perfection.
Keep it focused. One message per video.
Prioritize people. Authenticity > polish.
Lead with story. Real scenarios connect faster than facts alone.
Make it accessible. Captions, clear audio, mobile framing.
Look beyond view counts. Strong affinity shows up in:
Longer watch times
Repeat viewers
Comments, shares, and saves
Audience progressing from short clips to deeper content
Increased branded search interest
Positive feedback from customers or prospects
When used consistently, video turns your brand into a familiar presence and a resource people return to when decisions matter. That’s the foundation of affinity.
We help businesses find their focus, refine their voice, and align with their audience through marketing that generates tangible results. Our approach combines strategic thinking with practical execution to deliver. Learn more at https://www.leightonengage.com.