One of the most valuable investments companies make is video production. The scope of videos that companies can create is vast, and it is more than just entertainment. It is a powerful tool that will grow business if done properly. Engaging videos can bring in new leads and prospective customers. They will help the business grow and consider customer feedback.
Many video trends help businesses to employ different marketing techniques. So, they invest in excellent video production that elevates the business.
Not a New Phenomenon
Video marketing is not a new tool, but it has become all the more important in the digital age. It is more applicable in the case of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These are the industries that can leverage its potential. Around 86% of businesses use video marketing in some form or another in their overall marketing strategy.
Video allows SMEs to increase brand awareness and generate leads. It also boosts conversions and even fosters customer loyalty. But how do SMEs fit in with the latest video marketing trends and become one of the most sought-after marketing tools? SMEs must employ prominent trends in 2023 and beyond so their business can prosper.
Live Streaming: As one of the hottest trends in 2023, small businesses can connect with a sizeable audience in real time. It creates a sense of urgency and realness. The business appears more authentic. Businesses can use the live streaming feature for various purposes. They can hold product seminars, product launches and Q&A sessions, and even employee interviews and events. It helps to increase their reach and engagement as viewers watch live videos and comment on them more than the pre-recorded ones that one upload.
- Short-Form Videos
Another popular video marketing trend is short-form videos. These are usually two minutes long or shorter. They are the perfect tool to capture the attention of casual visitors and busy and distracted consumers. It is a bite-sized content that is perfect for fast and easy consumption.
Businesses can use short-form videos for multiple purposes. They can make animated explainer videos, product demos, tips, testimonials, and social media posts. It also helps the SMEs optimise their videos for each platform, like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Instagram Reels, and Facebook Stories.
User-Generated Content
The next marketing trend SMEs must leverage in the upcoming year is User Generated Content or UGC. It helps to build trust and reliability with the audience. UGC refers to any content or videos the fans or customers create, like reviews, feedback, testimonials, stories, etc.
The UGC is more like a social proof and increases word-of-mouth referrals. It also encourages customer and user participation and brand advocacy. The brands can repurpose existing content from the customers.
Educational Videos
Educational videos are also a marketing tool that SMEs use to promote their business. It helps to establish authority and expertise in the niche of their business. The video can showcase teaching new skills and sharing the best practice advice, providing solutions and even answering questions from the viewers.
Online educational videos help small businesses to attract and engage their audience. It increases their brand value and generates leads and sales.
Collaborative AR Content
Interactive augmented reality is the latest marketing trend. It helps brands to create more engaging and immersive content for customers. Interactive AR content is any content that fuses the digital elements in the real world as filters, animations, stickers, or games. It helps SMEs with their product visualisation.
Shoppable Videos
Another trend that SMEs should take advantage of is shoppable videos. It helps to shorten the customer’s journey and increase their sales. The videos allow the viewers to directly purchase the products or services that a company features in their videos. It provides the audience with more information regarding the business and their products. It helps to track while attributing to the SMEs outreach.
The Type of Videos that SMEs can Make
Now that the SMEs’ advantages and uses are clear, what are the various types of videos that your business can make to boost their engagement and sales?
Explainers: As the name suggests, these videos will “explain” a concept or a product. Explain the products so that you can capture the attention of the audience.
Educational: Consumers want accurate and reliable information. With educational videos, you can provide facts and valuable content in a fun and interesting manner. You can share industry insights with these types of videos as well.
Interview | Client Testimonial Video: You can make videos where you interview team members or happy customers. Client testimonial videos are a powerful and persuasive way to tell a success story of how your businesses services and/or products have helped another company benefit from these offerings and solutions. Or the videos may follow the company’s employees; as they carry out their routine on a typical workday. These videos are an excellent format for sharing brand stories.
No Audio with Caption: The videos sans audio communicates the message without distractions. They are perfect for mobile users, especially in a public place. The captions keep them focused and on point and help to add extra content to what is already on screen.
The landscape of video marketing is continuously evolving, bringing a plethora of opportunities for SMEs. Video marketing is no longer an optional luxury; it has become an integral part of marketing strategies. Businesses that adapt and innovate will be the ones who remain competitive in this dynamic digital world.
With the help of these upcoming trends, SMEs can create an effective video marketing strategy that resonates with their target audience. From live streaming and short-form videos to UGC and educational content, there is a format for every business need.
Shoppable videos and collaborative AR content will be game-changers, creating an immersive, interactive experience for customers while shortening the buying process. Meanwhile, various types of videos, such as explainer videos, educational content, client testimonials, and captioned videos, will continue to provide valuable content that engages audiences.
Conclusion
In essence, the future of video marketing promises a world where businesses are not only seen or heard but experienced. SMEs, it’s time to embrace the future and let your brand’s story shine through the power of video. Remember, your video content is the mirror of your brand. Make it engaging, informative, and, most importantly, authentic. Keep up with the trends and prepare for a future where video marketing is not just a trend, but the norm.
