10 Video Ideas for Local Businesses to Attract Customers
Every local business owner knows the challenge: how do you stand out in a crowded market and get more customers through your door? The answer is not more leaflets or generic social media posts. The most powerful tool at your disposal is video marketing for local business.
As a video professional based in Hull, I know the importance of local relevance. While the following ideas are universally effective, I’ll use my city as an example to show you how they can be applied right in your own community. This guide will provide you with 10 powerful video ideas for local business that are easy to create and highly effective.
The Problem: Your Content Isn’t Cutting Through the Noise
Many local businesses recognise the need for video but get stuck wondering, "what should I film?" The solution isn't a massive budget or a professional film crew. It's about a simple, repeatable video content strategy for small business that focuses on what your customers genuinely want to see. This post will give you a blueprint to start filming today.
Video Ideas to Showcase Your Business
These ideas focus on highlighting your unique offerings and the people behind the brand.
1. The "Meet the Person" Video
Introduce yourself and the key people in your business. People love to support businesses with a human face. For example, a small cafe owner in Hull could film a quick video about their passion for making coffee. This helps build trust and makes your business more approachable.
2. Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Give your audience a peek behind the curtain. Show how you prepare food, design products, or serve clients. Imagine a florist on Princes Avenue in Hull filming a video about how they arrange a bouquet. This kind of transparency builds authenticity and shows pride in your work.
3. The Customer Testimonial
Nothing is more powerful than social proof. Film a quick, genuine review from a happy customer. This is one of the best small business video marketing tools you can use, as a local voice will resonate strongly with others.
Video Ideas to Educate and Entertain
These videos provide value to your audience, which helps position you as a local expert.
4. The "How-To" Tutorial
Show your audience how to do something related to your business. A hairdresser in Hull could share a quick hair styling tip, or a bike shop could demonstrate how to fix a flat tyre.
5. Local Event Coverage
Attend and film local events, such as a community market or a street festival. This shows you're an active part of the community and helps you build a rapport with other local businesses.
6. Product or Service Demonstrations
Instead of just showing a product, show it in action. A gym could demonstrate a new piece of equipment, or a bakery could show a cake being decorated.
Video Ideas to Drive Engagement
These concepts are designed to encourage interaction and get your audience talking.
7. Ask Me Anything (AMA)
Host a short Q&A video on social media, answering common questions about your business or industry. This is a great way to engage with your community directly.
8. Polls and Quizzes
Create a short video that asks a question and prompts people to answer in the comments. This is a fantastic way to boost engagement and get feedback.
9. Partner with a Local Influencer
Collaborate with a local social media influencer to promote your business. This can introduce your brand to a new, relevant audience.
For a deeper dive into how to execute these, check out my post on social media video content strategy.
10. The "Day in the Life" Video
Give a glimpse into a typical day running your business. This type of authentic content makes you relatable and showcases the hard work you put in. For example, a video showing a typical morning for a market stall owner in Hull's Trinity Indoor Market would be fascinating to your local audience.
The Final Piece: Optimisation and Community
Once you have your content, you need to optimise it. Use keyword-rich titles and descriptions, and add captions to all your videos, as many people watch without sound. This is a crucial step for how to use video for local marketing effectively. A recent study by WordStream found that videos with captions have a higher view rate.
Ready to Start Filming?
With these video ideas for local business, you have a clear plan to start creating powerful content today. Remember, the goal is not perfection—it's connection. By consistently creating authentic video content that highlights your place in the community, you will build a loyal customer base and grow your business.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start creating engaging social media video that drives growth, let’s talk. I have the expertise to help you build a comprehensive strategy that stands out and attracts clients.
Contact me today for a free consultation to start your video storytelling journey!
