5 Video Marketing Ideas Every Small Business Should Try

Ever feel like bigger brands have an unfair advantage in video marketing?

The great news is you don’t have to be a giant corporation to make awesome videos.

Even if you’re a small or medium-sized business, you can still grab attention, connect with people, and grow your customer base using simple video ideas.

Here are five video marketing approaches you can try—no million-dollar budget required.

1. Behind-the-Scenes Videos

According to Inside Intelligence, 75% of people watch short-form content on their mobile.

If you want to reach more prospects where they’re already browsing, consider short-form content, including video ads, YouTube clips, TikToks, or Instagram Reels.

These short-form videos are mainly useful at the awareness and consideration stage of the marketing funnel.

People are naturally curious. They love peeking behind the curtain to see how things really work.

Giving viewers a quick behind-the-scenes tour of your office, restaurant, or workshop can make them feel like they’re part of your crew.

Why It Works:

• Builds trust by showing your real environment.

• Lets your personality shine, which can help you stand out.

2. Product Explainers and Demonstrations

Do you have a cool product or service that needs some explaining?

A short demo video can be a lifesaver. Show potential customers how to use your product or how your service makes life easier.

Why It Works:

• Helps people visualize your solution.

• Addresses common questions before they even ask.

Quick Tip: Keep it simple. Highlight the key steps or features, and don’t overload viewers with too much info at once.

3. Customer Testimonials

Ever notice how you trust a business more when you hear good things from real people?

That’s exactly why testimonial videos are so powerful. Ask a happy customer to share their experience, and keep it genuine.

Viewers can smell fake endorsements a mile away.

Why It Works:

• Builds credibility through real-world success stories.

• Helps potential customers imagine themselves having a similar positive outcome.

Quick Tip: Encourage your customers to mention specific benefits or results they got, like saving time or boosting sales.

4. How-To or Educational Content

If you’ve got knowledge to share, turn it into a helpful how-to video. This could be anything from cooking tutorials to DIY home repairs—whatever fits your industry.

By teaching viewers something useful, you position yourself as an expert they’ll remember.

Why It Works:

• Provides immediate value, making people more likely to keep watching.

• Creates trust because it shows you genuinely want to help your audience.

Quick Tip: End the video with a simple call-to-action, such as subscribing to your channel or visiting your website for more tips.

5. Live Streams or Q&A Sessions

Going live can be a bit nerve-wracking, but it’s also super engaging.

You can do a live demo, host a Q&A about your product, or even just share quick updates on your business.

Viewers can comment or ask questions in real time, which lets you connect with them more personally.

Why It Works:

• Feels unscripted and spontaneous, which can draw people in.

• Helps you respond to customer questions on the spot, building deeper relationships.

Quick Tip: Promote your live stream ahead of time on social media, so people know when to tune in.

Keep It Real

One of the biggest advantages small businesses have is personality.

Don’t be afraid to let yours shine through in your videos. If you flub a line or get a little tongue-tied, it can actually make you seem more approachable.

Viewers often relate to genuine, down-to-earth moments.Video marketing doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive.

By focusing on authenticity, helpful information, and real customer stories, you can make a big impact on a modest budget.

Pick one or two of the ideas above, grab your phone or camera, and start shooting.

Your audience is waiting—and they’ll appreciate getting to know the real you behind the brand.

Got questions or want more guidance?

Feel free to reach out—I’m happy to help you shine on camera and connect with your audience in a way that truly resonates.