Why Video is the New 'Talk Story': 5 Ways to Use Video Marketing in Hawaii (That Aren't TV)
In Hawaii, we build relationships on "talk story." It’s how we share our experiences, build trust, and connect with our community on a genuine level. In 2025, the most powerful way to "talk story" with your customers online is through video.
When most business owners hear "video marketing hawaii," they immediately think of a big-budget, complex TV commercial. That’s a powerful tool, but it's not where you have to start. In fact, a 2025 study from Wyzowl found that 91% of businesses use video as a marketing tool, and 87% of marketers say it gives them a positive ROI.
The truth is, affordable, digital-first video is one of the highest-ROI activities for a small business video marketing strategy. It allows you to build a personal connection, show your expertise, and build the kind of trust that turns a follower into a customer.
Here are 5 simple, high-impact ways to start using video right now.
1. The 60-Second "Homepage Hero"
What it is: A 60-90 second video that sits at the top of your website's homepage. It’s your digital handshake and "About Us" story combined.
Why it works: It instantly answers "Who are these people?" "What do they do?" and "Why should I trust them?" A well-produced hero video can dramatically increase the time people spend on your site and boost your conversion rate.
2. The "Video Testimonial"
What it is: A short, 30-60 second interview with one of your best customers.
Why it works: This is literal digital "talk story." It’s one thing for you to say your service is great, but it's a thousand times more powerful to hear it from a real, local customer. This is the ultimate trust-builder and a cornerstone of any good Public Relations strategy.
3. The "Behind-the-Scenes" Social Post
What it is: Short, authentic, vertical videos for Instagram Reels or TikTok showing the real side of your business.
Why it works: This humanizes your brand. For a restaurant, it’s a peek into the kitchen. For a home service pro, it’s a "day in the life." These social media video ideas aren't about being polished; they're about being real, which builds a strong community following.
4. The "How-To" / Explainer Video
What it is: A simple video that answers a common customer question or shows how to use your product.
Why it works: This builds your authority and is a powerhouse for SEO. A roofer in Hawaii could make a 2-minute video on "How to Spot Wind Damage on Your Roof." This provides genuine value and attracts customers who are actively searching for your expertise.
5. The "Meet the Ohana" Video
What it is: A simple, 1-minute video introducing your team members.
Why it works: People connect with people. This is especially true in Hawaii. Showing the real, local faces behind your business makes your company feel less like a faceless logo and more like a trusted neighbor.
The 'Get Started' Toolkit: Simple Tools You Already Own
You don't need a Hollywood budget to start. You likely already have a professional-grade studio in your pocket.
1. Your Smartphone: A modern iPhone or Android phone shoots in high-quality 4K. It's all you need to get started.
2. A Simple Microphone: Clear audio is more important than perfect video. A $20 lavalier (lapel) mic that clips to your shirt will make you sound 100x more professional.
3. Good Lighting (from a Window): Don't buy expensive lights. Just face a window. Soft, natural light is free and looks fantastic.
4. Free Editing Apps: Use apps like CapCut or iMovie (which comes with your phone) to easily trim your clips, add text, and post.
Pro-Tip: How to Get Backlinks With Your Videos
Here's an advanced SEO tip: videos are "linkable assets." Other websites are more likely to share and link back to a helpful video, which boosts your Google ranking.
Example 1 (How-To Video): Create that "How to Spot Wind Damage" video. Then, email it to local hardware stores or roofing suppliers. They can share it on their "Contractor Resources" page, earning you a high-quality backlink.
Example 2 (Community Video): Film a short video highlighting a local non-profit you sponsored. Send it to the non-profit and local news blogs. They will often post it and link back to your site as the source. This is a powerful combination of SEO and Public Relations.
Your First Video Project Checklist
Ready to try? Use this simple checklist for your first video.
[ ] Define Your ONE Goal: (e.g., "Build trust," "Explain a service.")
[ ] Choose Your Video Type: (e.g., Testimonial, How-To, Meet the
Ohana.)[ ] Write 3 Key Talking Points: (Not a full script! Keep it natural.)
[ ] Check Your Audio: (Are you using a mic? Is the room quiet?)
[ ] Check Your Lighting: (Are you facing a window?)
[ ] Film a 1-Minute Clip: (Keep it short and to the point.)
[ ] Add a Clear Call-to-Action: (e.g., "Visit our website for more," "Call us today.")
[ ] Post It! (Don't overthink it. Just get it live.)
From Digital Storytelling to a Household Name
Digital video is all about building a loyal community through consistent "talk story" moments.
But what happens when you're ready to take that story and share it with everyone?
That's when you're ready to level up. The same storytelling and authenticity you built in your social media videos are the exact ingredients needed for a powerful TV & Radio advertising campaign. You can take the trust you've earned with hundreds and scale it to reach tens of thousands.
At JB Brands, we are a full-service creative partner. Our Digital Marketing team can help you build your day-to-day social video strategy, while our award-winning Creative Strategy & Branding team can produce everything from your high-end Homepage Hero video to your next broadcast TV commercial.
You have a story to tell. We have the tools to help you share it. Contact our Account Services, Sales & Marketing consulting team to start the conversation.
