7 Types of Videos That Drive Results for Small Businesses in Kansas City

As a small business owner in Kansas City, you might be wondering how to make video work for you. With so many options, it can feel overwhelming. But don't worry! We're here to help. In this post, we'll explore seven types of videos that can really boost your business. Whether you're running a tech startup in the Crossroads Arts District or a boutique in Westport, these video ideas can help you connect with customers, attract talent, and grow your business.

Why Choose the Right Type of Video?

Before we dive in, let's talk about why picking the right type of video matters. Just like you wouldn't use a hammer to paint a wall, not every type of video works for every goal. The right video can:

• Get more people to know about your business
• Help customers understand what you offer
• Build trust with your audience
• Attract great employees
• Turn viewers into buyers or brand advocates

Now, let's look at seven types of videos that can do all that and more!

1. Brand and "About Us" Videos

Your brand story is unique, and an "About Us" video is the perfect way to tell it.

Why brand videos work:

• They show the human side of your business
• They help customers connect emotionally with your brand
• They set you apart from the competition

Tips for great brand videos:

• Share your company's mission and values
• Introduce key team members
• Show your involvement in the Kansas City community
• Keep it authentic and heartfelt

Small business example:

A family-owned hardware store in Brookside could create a brand video showcasing their 50-year history in Kansas City, introducing the current generation running the store, and highlighting their commitment to personalized customer service.

2. Recruiting Videos

In a competitive job market, recruiting videos can help you attract top talent to your Kansas City business.

Why recruiting videos are effective:

• They give potential employees a real look at your company culture
• They can showcase career growth opportunities
• They help job seekers envision themselves working for you

Tips for compelling recruiting videos:

• Feature current employees sharing their experiences
• Show your workplace environment
• Highlight unique perks or benefits
• Communicate your company's values and mission

Small business example:

A growing tech startup in the Crossroads Arts District could create a recruiting video showcasing their modern office space, featuring team members talking about exciting projects, and highlighting work-life balance perks like flexible hours or team outings to Royals games.

3. Customer Testimonial Videos

Word of mouth is powerful, and customer testimonial videos are like word of mouth on steroids. They let your happy customers sell for you.

Why testimonials rock:

• People trust other customers more than ads
• They show real results
• They help new customers picture themselves using your product or service

How to get great testimonials:

• Ask happy customers if they'd like to share their story
• Make it easy for them (offer to film at their place or yours)
• Let them speak naturally - scripted testimonials sound fake
• Keep it short and sweet (30-60 seconds is perfect)

Small business example:

A local Kansas City gym could feature a customer who lost weight and gained confidence. Seeing a real person share their journey can inspire others to join.

4. Product or Service Promo Videos

Show, don't tell. That's the power of product or service promo videos. They let customers see your offerings in action.

Why promo videos work:

• They highlight the benefits of your product or service
• People can see how your offering fits into their lives
• They create excitement and desire

Tips for effective promo videos:

• Focus on solving customer problems
• Show your product or service in real-life situations
• Use high-quality visuals and music to create an emotional connection
• Include a clear call-to-action

Small business example:

A Kansas City food truck could create a mouthwatering video showcasing their signature dishes being prepared and enjoyed by customers at various city locations, ending with information on how to find their weekly schedule.

5. How-To and Tutorial Videos

Teaching is a great way to build trust and show expertise. How-to videos do just that.

Why tutorial videos work:

• They provide value to your audience
• They position you as an expert in your field
• They can attract new customers looking for solutions

Tips for creating helpful tutorials:

• Choose topics your customers care about
• Break down complex processes into simple steps
• Use clear visuals to illustrate each step
• Encourage viewers to try it themselves

Small business example:

A Kansas City garden center could create seasonal how-to videos on planting and care tips. This not only helps their customers succeed but also keeps the garden center top-of-mind when it's time to buy plants.

6. Behind-the-Scenes Videos

People love to feel like insiders. Behind-the-scenes videos give them a special look into your business.

Why behind-the-scenes videos are great:

• They build trust by showing transparency
• They help customers feel connected to your brand
• They showcase your team and company culture

Ideas for behind-the-scenes content:

• A day in the life of your business
• How your product is made
• Meet the team videos
• Bloopers or funny moments

Small business example:

A local Kansas City bakery could film the process of making their famous cinnamon rolls, from mixing the dough to pulling them hot from the oven. Viewers might almost smell the cinnamon through their screens!

7. Explainer Videos

Explainer videos are like your business's best friend. They tell people what you do and why it matters, all in a short, fun way.

Why explainer videos work:

• They make complex ideas simple
• People remember them better than text
• They can show off your brand's personality

Tips for great explainer videos:

• Keep it short (1-2 minutes max)
• Start with the problem you solve
• Use simple language
• Add a touch of humor if it fits your brand

Small business example:

A Kansas City tech startup could use an explainer video to show how their app makes life easier for local shoppers. With simple animations and a friendly voiceover, they can turn a complex app into something everyone wants to try.

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