5 Types of Marketing Videos Every Local Business Should Consider

Key Takeaways

• Each video type solves a different business problem—there’s no one-size-fits-all
• Video builds trust, increases conversions, and makes your brand easier to remember
• Short-form, purpose-driven videos can go a long way without a huge production budget
• Choosing the right video depends on your goals—not just what looks cool
• We make it easy to get started, whether you need one polished testimonial or a full content library

If you’re thinking about adding video to your marketing plan, you’re already ahead of the game. According to Wyzowl’s 2024 survey, 89% of businesses use video as a marketing tool—and 93% say it delivers strong ROI.

But here’s where most people get stuck: what kind of video should you actually make?

Let’s break down the five most effective types of marketing videos we recommend for local businesses—and when each one makes the most sense.

1. Explain what you do (without making them scroll)

Explainer videos are your 60-second elevator pitch—without the awkward handshake. They’re especially useful when your service is complex, unfamiliar, or easy to confuse with someone else’s.

Think of it like this: instead of typing out a paragraph explaining how your foundation repair process works, you show it. Let your future customer see what they’re getting, how it works, and what to expect—fast.

These work great on homepages, service pages, and anywhere someone might be sizing you up.

Best for: local businesses with layered services—think contractors, medical clinics, or consultants.

2. Let your happy customers do the talking

There’s nothing more powerful than a real customer saying, “This company made my life easier.”

Sure, you’ve got great Google reviews. But a video lets people hear tone, see emotion, and connect the dots faster than text alone. According to DesignRush, 91% of consumers say video quality impacts how much they trust a brand. So if you’ve got customers singing your praises, capturing it on camera is a smart move.

Best for: service businesses where trust drives the sale—like home services, healthcare, or finance.

3. Tell your origin story (and make it matter)

People want to know who they’re buying from. A brand story video is your chance to show the human side of your business—the people behind the service, the why behind the work.

This isn’t about being overly produced or emotional. It’s about showing your face, your values, and what sets your business apart from the generic options out there.

We’ve filmed everything from family-run shops that started in a garage to teams that came together after years in the industry. When people can connect with your story, they’re more likely to choose you—even if your prices are higher.

Best for: small businesses who want to stand out in a competitive local market.

4. Stay top-of-mind with short-form video

If you want to be seen consistently on Instagram, Facebook, or even your Google Business Profile, short videos are your friend. And they don’t need to be Hollywood-level productions.

Think 15- to 30-second vertical clips—new product teasers, quick tips, behind-the-scenes shots. According to HubSpot, videos under a minute are the most watched and shared. For small businesses, this is one of the fastest ways to show up without shouting.

Best for: restaurants, shops, fitness pros, or any business trying to stay relevant and visible on social.

5. Advertise where your audience actually watches

Streaming video ads—like the kind you see on Hulu or Fubo—are a game changer for local visibility. You can target by ZIP code (like all of Tri-Cities) and reach people where they’re already watching shows, not scrolling past static ads.

These aren’t just brand plays. They’re awareness builders that keep you top of mind until someone is ready to make a decision. If you’re used to paying billboard prices, CTV often costs less and does more—starting around $3–5K/month for a local campaign.

Best for: businesses that want to build name recognition in specific areas—like med spas, clinics, law firms, or established service providers.

Hey, we know those guys! We’ve been running this ad on streaming platforms around Tri-Cities. It’s a great example of how even a 30-second spot can build brand recognition without feeling like a hard sell.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just “Make a Video”

Video is one of the most effective ways to build trust, explain your offer, and make your brand memorable. But if you just hit record without a clear goal, you’re throwing money at pixels that won’t convert.

Start with what you’re trying to accomplish—then choose the video that fits. And if you’re not sure which one that is? That’s where we come in.

Explore our video production services or get in touch to talk through your goals. No pressure, no jargon—just real advice on what kind of video will work for your business.