How Small Businesses Can Benefit from Video Content

Why video matters more than ever

It’s hard to ignore the way video has become part of our everyday lives. Whether it’s short clips on social media, explainer videos on websites, or tutorials that guide us step by step, people now expect to see and consume content in video form. For small business owners, this shift presents a real opportunity. Video is no longer just a tool for large brands with deep pockets. It’s now an accessible, affordable, and powerful way to engage your audience.

Engagement that words alone can’t match

We live in a fast-moving world where attention spans are short. A well-made video captures attention far more quickly than text. People are more likely to remember your message, understand what you do, and feel confident in your brand when they see and hear it rather than simply read about it.

For decision makers trying to win customers, this matters. Video helps people connect with your business on a human level. It brings personality, warmth, and trust. A one-minute clip can achieve what paragraphs of text sometimes can’t — a clear sense of who you are and why your business is worth choosing.

SEO benefits you can’t ignore

From a search perspective, video is valuable too. Search engines reward websites that keep visitors engaged, and video is one of the strongest ways to achieve this. When someone clicks on your website and watches a video, they spend longer on the page. That extra time is a signal to Google that your site is relevant and useful, which can help improve your rankings.

Videos also appear in search results themselves, giving you another chance to be discovered. Embedding video on your site and sharing it across platforms creates more touchpoints for your business.

Affordable and accessible for all

In the past, creating video might have felt out of reach for many small businesses. Professional filming, editing, and distribution came with high costs. The good news is that things have changed. Modern smartphones have powerful cameras, editing apps are simple to use, and short-form content doesn’t need a studio setup to be effective.

The key is to start small and be consistent. A quick introduction, a walk-through of your service, or even answering common customer questions on camera can all provide strong, authentic content that resonates. Perfection isn’t required — authenticity is often what makes video stand out.

Versatility across platforms

One of the biggest strengths of video is how versatile it is. A single clip can be used in multiple ways:

• Embedded on your website to strengthen your message.
• Shared on social media to increase reach.
• Used in online ads to grab attention.
• Sent directly to prospects or customers as part of your communication.

This ability to repurpose content makes video highly efficient. You’re not just creating for one channel — you’re building assets that can be used again and again.

Ads that work harder

Video has also become central to advertising. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube prioritise video ads because they generate stronger engagement compared to static images. For small businesses, this means your advertising budget works harder. Even short, simple clips can reach more people and hold their attention for longer, improving your chances of converting interest into enquiries.

Our approach at UK Business Portal

At UK Business Portal, we’ve recognised the importance of video for our members. That’s why we regularly create short promotional videos designed to enhance member profiles. These videos highlight services, showcase professionalism, and provide another way for potential customers to engage with the businesses we list. It’s an added perk that not only boosts visibility but also builds trust.

By giving members access to video content, we help them stay competitive in a landscape where audiences increasingly expect to see rather than just read. Take a look at one below:

 

Getting started with your own video strategy

If you haven’t already embraced video, now is the time to start. You don’t need to be an expert. Begin with what feels comfortable:

• A short introduction to your business.
• A demonstration of your product or service.
• Customer testimonials recorded on camera.
• Tips or advice that show your knowledge.

Keep it simple and remember that the most important step is to start. Over time, you’ll build confidence and see what resonates with your audience.

Looking ahead

Video is no longer optional. It’s one of the most effective tools small businesses have to engage audiences, improve online visibility, and build credibility. The barriers to entry are low, the rewards are high, and the opportunities to repurpose content make it incredibly efficient.

The question now is simple: will you be introducing video into your business, or increasing the role it already plays in your marketing?