If you’re a small business owner looking to expand your reach, video marketing is an essential tool to consider. With 85% of businesses now using video, it’s clear that video content is more than just a trend—it’s a proven strategy to attract, engage, and convert potential customers.
Why video marketing is essential for small businesses
Many people I speak to ask me, ‘David, where do I start with videos for my business?’.
Video marketing has become indispensable for small businesses aiming to educate their audience, generate leads, and boost conversions. In this article, I aim to explain the importance of video, short form video you can use, LinkedIn best practices and video ideas you can implement with ease as a small business owner.
Video, as you know, has skyrocketed across all platforms and channels, with social media leading the charge.
For instance, LinkedIn—a platform with over 310 million active users—offers small businesses a unique opportunity to connect with professional audiences through video content. But how can small businesses effectively leverage video marketing on a budget? Here are a few key insights and strategies tailored to your needs.
Short-form videos: The small business growth hack
Snackable content
Short-form videos, often called “snackable” content, are perfect for capturing attention quickly. Videos under 90 seconds retain 50% of viewers, making them ideal for sharing key messages efficiently.
According to the State of Content Marketing report, short-form videos are among the best-performing content types. For small businesses, creating concise and engaging videos can maximise impact without breaking the bank.
LinkedIn video content best practices for small businesses
Creating effective video content doesn’t have to be daunting or expensive. Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
Get your video length right
Aim for LinkedIn videos that are between 30-90 seconds long. This keeps viewers engaged and ensures your message is delivered effectively.
Include subtitles
Over 80% of LinkedIn videos are watched on mute. Adding subtitles is crucial for accessibility and ensuring your message is understood.
Front load your important information
Capture attention in the first 10 seconds to hook viewers and convey your core message quickly.
Add compelling copy
Accompany your video with engaging text to drive engagement. Use a strong headline and a clear problem-solution-success framework.
Clear call-to-action (CTA): Always tell viewers what to do next, whether it’s visiting your website, signing up for a newsletter, or contacting your business directly.
Utilize analytics
Monitor video performance to understand what resonates with your audience. Use these insights to refine your content strategy.
Favor native content
Post videos directly on LinkedIn rather than sharing from other platforms to enhance reach and engagement.
Video content ideas for small businesses
Here are some video content types that small businesses can leverage:
Podcast videos
Share short snippets from your podcast episodes to entice your audience and drive interest in longer content.
Educational videos
Offer tutorials, tips, or industry insights that establish your business as an authority and provide value to your audience.
Testimonials
Showcase satisfied customers to build trust and credibility. These authentic endorsements can significantly influence potential buyers.
Explainer videos
Simplify complex topics or introduce new products/services in a straightforward and engaging manner.
Vlogs
Give a behind-the-scenes look at your business to humanize your brand and connect with your audience on a personal level.
Ready to boost your business with video marketing?
Video marketing is a powerful tool for small businesses to engage their audience, generate leads, and drive sales. By implementing these strategies and continuously refining your approach based on analytics, you can create compelling content that delivers impressive results.
Start leveraging video marketing today to elevate your business strategy and reach new heights in 2024!
If this sounds like something you need some more support or guidance with then feel free to reach out to me or take a closer look at how we could help you over on our Learning Hub.
Here’s to the growth and success of your small business.
