10 Explainer Video Mistakes That Make People Click Away

So you spent time and money making an explainer video—but viewers are bouncing before it even ends. What gives?

Chances are, you're making one (or more) of the most common mistakes that cause people to tune out. The good news? Every one of these mistakes is fixable.

Let’s walk through the top 10 explainer video missteps that drive viewers away—and how to avoid them.

1. It Takes Too Long to Get to the Point

You’ve only got a few seconds to grab attention. If your video starts with a slow logo animation or vague setup, you’re already losing people.

Fix it: Hook the viewer in the first 5 seconds. Start with a bold question, surprising fact, or quick preview of the solution.

2. It’s Trying to Explain Too Much

Cramming every product detail into one video? That’s a fast track to confusion and disinterest.

Fix it: Stick to one message. Focus on one core problem and one clear solution. You can always make more videos later.

3. The Script Sounds Like a Blog Post

What works in writing doesn’t always work out loud. If your script is full of long sentences or formal language, it won’t sound natural.

Fix it: Write how people talk. Use short sentences. Read it out loud. If it sounds weird, rewrite it.

4. The Voiceover Doesn’t Match the Brand

A cheerful tech startup shouldn’t sound like a documentary narrator. And a healthcare organization probably shouldn’t use a sarcastic tone.

Fix it: Choose a voice that reflects your brand personality—calm, confident, friendly, professional, whatever fits you best.

5. The Pacing Is Off

Too fast and your message gets lost. Too slow and people get bored. A jumbled pace with no rhythm feels chaotic.

Fix it: Find a steady flow. Use visuals and music to support natural transitions. Give important moments space to breathe.

6. The Visuals Are Confusing

Random animation just for the sake of movement? Stock icons that don’t match? These distract from your message.

Fix it: Make sure every visual element supports the story. Consistency and clarity beat flashy effects every time.

7. There’s No Call to Action

If your video ends with a fade to black and nothing else, you’re missing a huge opportunity.

Fix it: Tell viewers exactly what to do next—click a link, sign up, learn more, whatever you want them to do. Make it obvious and easy.

8. It’s Way Too Long

Explainer videos should be short and sweet. Anything longer than 2 minutes has to be absolutely amazing to hold attention.

Fix it: Aim for 60–90 seconds. Focus on clarity, not completeness. Leave them wanting more, not checking the time.

9. It Doesn’t Address the Viewer’s Problem

Talking about your features and awards isn’t what gets people interested. They want to know: what’s in it for me?

Fix it: Frame your message around your audience. Start with their pain point, then show how you help.

10. It Feels Like Every Other Video

If your explainer video sounds and looks like every other template out there, it won’t stand out—or be remembered.

Fix it: Add some personality. Use brand colors, unique voiceover tone, and a visual style that feels like you, not everyone else.

Final Thoughts: Watch Your Own Video Like a Viewer

Before you publish, watch your explainer video like someone seeing it for the first time. Better yet, ask someone who hasn’t worked on the project to watch it.

If they’re confused, bored, or unclear about what to do next, it’s worth revisiting a few things. Great explainer videos aren’t just about animation—they’re about clarity, connection, and giving your viewer a reason to care.