People scroll fast. The average person scrolls approximately 0.39 kilometers (about 0.24 miles) on their smartphone each day. Over the course of a year, this accumulates to roughly 142 kilometers (88 miles). To put this into perspective, that’s akin to walking from Christchurch to Timaru!
If your content doesn’t grab their attention in a few seconds, they’ll keep moving. That’s why short videos (under a minute) are becoming one of the best ways for small businesses to get noticed online.
Think about TikTok, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts. These platforms are full of quick videos that entertain, teach something, or show off a product. And the best part? You don’t need a big budget to join in.
Start strong
The first 2-3 seconds are everything. Ask a question, show something surprising, or speak directly to your customer. For example: “Not sure which houseplant won’t die on you? Let me help.”
Stick to one idea
Don’t try to say too much. One video = one message. That might be showing off a product, answering a common question, or sharing a tip.
Be real
People like seeing the real faces behind a business. You don’t need to look perfect or overly polished. Just be yourself. Show behind-the-scenes clips or let your staff talk on camera.
Add captions
Lots of people watch videos with the sound off. Captions help make sure everyone still gets your message (and they help with accessibility, too).
Use trends carefully
If there’s a popular audio clip or challenge going around that fits your business, go for it. Just make sure it feels like a good match. For example, a dog groomer might use a trending sound to show a dramatic before-and-after.
Try different types of videos
Don’t just do one thing. Try quick tutorials, customer reviews, product demos, or even a funny blooper reel. Over time, you’ll see what your audience likes best.
Make sure it works on phones
Most people will watch on their phone, so film your videos vertically, use clear visuals, and make sure any text is big enough to read.
Keep an eye on what works
Most platforms show you how many people watched, liked, or shared your video. Use that info to learn what’s working and make more of it.
Most people feel a bit awkward seeing themselves on video or hearing their voice recorded. This is completely normal: your voice sounds different to you because you usually hear it from inside your head, not through a speaker. But to everyone else, it sounds just like… you.
If you’re nervous, try this: ask someone you trust for honest feedback, and remind yourself that people care more about what you’re saying than how your voice sounds. I used to interview people and transcribe the audio myself (before auto transcription was a thing), and yes, listening to my own voice felt super weird at first. But guess what? I got used to it, and you will too.
The key is to keep going. Show up, share your message, and trust that your audience wants the real you, not a perfect version.
Short videos aren’t just a fad. They’re becoming one of the main ways people find and connect with businesses, big or small.
So whether you’re a plumber sharing quick fixes, a cafe owner showing the daily special, or a jewellery maker showing how your pieces are made, short videos can help you stand out.
It’s not about going viral. It’s about showing up, telling your story, and connecting with the people who need what you do.
And if you’re not sure where to start, that’s where we come in. We help small businesses make simple, effective videos that feel true to them and that their customers love.
