We're not the first folks to tell you that video marketing is thriving. In fact, 83% of marketers agree that it's getting more important. You can see it yourself by looking around any crowd to see how many people are watching mobile videos.

Still, understanding the importance of video marketing is just the first step. Where do you begin to build your strategy?

Start by learning your options in video marketing for business.

1. Talking Head Videos

If you're looking for an easy entry to video marketing, it doesn't get much easier than a talking head video.

In this video, you're in front of the camera talking about something in your area of expertise. Perhaps you're a roofing contractor for example. Create a video in which you explain the pros and cons of asphalt shingles compared to metal roofing.

The purpose of this video is to inform your audience. They're Googling questions and you're there with the answer.

As a happy side effect, viewers get to know you through your videos. They see you as an expert in your field, making you their go-to phone call when they need your services.

2. How-To Videos

While video is an engaging medium overall, it's especially helpful for certain types of information. A prime example is when someone is trying to learn a skill.

65% of people say they use YouTube to find out how to make repairs and fix problems.

You can be there for that 65% by creating how-to videos that apply to your business. For instance, if you're a general physician, make a video showing people how to check their blood pressure or their pulse.

It can also be helpful to create videos that show viewers how to use your products or services.

3. Animated Videos

It may not be the easiest option, but animated videos open many doors for your video marketing. They make it possible to show information that would be difficult or expensive to demonstrate in a live-action video.

One popular trend today is the whiteboard video. These videos show animations of a narrator explaining something while drawing it out on a whiteboard.

Keep in mind that in most cases, animated videos are more expensive to produce than other videos. Still, working a few of them into your budget can help you add variety to your video marketing strategy.

4. Insider Videos

Marketing would be far easier if the only thing you needed to do to make a sale is to tell customers about your product. The larger challenge is forming a bond with those customers so they trust you enough to make a purchase.

One way to garner that trust is to make customers feel like family with insider videos. In these videos, you give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at something they wouldn't normally see.

For instance, show off parts of your manufacturing process. Viewers will feel more knowledgeable about your business and more connected with you, making them more likely to give you their business.

5. Testimonial Videos

You can sing your own praises all day long, but what customers want to hear is whether your other customers agree. That's when testimonial videos come in handy.

These videos are exactly what their name suggests. You film your customers or clients talking about their experiences with you and recommending you to others.

Testimonial videos are especially helpful for high-dollar purchases that require customers to put more trust in you. For instance, doctors use testimonial videos to market their services, as do realtors.

The key with testimonial videos is putting forth an ongoing effort. Ask each happy customer after a great experience whether they'll offer a video testimonial. A small percentage of them will say yes, so you need to ask enough customers to build up a solid stash.

6. Casual Videos

Most of the types of marketing videos have specific purposes and distinct information to communicate. There is also something to be said for informal casual videos.

These videos include quick, fun videos on your social media pages. Broadcast a quick Facebook Live video to say "good morning" to your followers. As you're setting up for an event, put out a video to remind customers to come down for a visit.

The purpose of this type of video is to nurture your relationship with people who already know about you.

For the most part, you'll only reach your existing followers on social media. Still, it reminds them of your business and helps them feel a more personal connection with you.

7. Interactive Q & A Videos

One of the best benefits of social media is that it's turned videos into two-way conversations instead of one-way messages. You can take advantage of that in your video marketing.

Set a date and time for an "Ask Me Anything" video in your area of expertise. You could also choose a particular topic. For example, if you're a family law attorney, schedule a live video about child custody issues.

During the video, viewers will be able to comment with their questions so you can answer them live.

At the same time, don't assume you'll be flooded with questions right away. Prepare your own list of questions to answer at first. Use these to start the conversation, but prioritize questions from real viewers when they come in.

Video Marketing for Business: Forming Your Strategy

With all these types of video marketing for business to choose from, where do you start? Which one will serve you best?

All these types of videos serve different purposes and appeal to different viewers. The key is having a healthy variety of as many video types as possible.

No matter where you start, however, quality matters. Your videos need to have a professional image so you can put your best foot forward.

To start planning today, get a quote for your next marketing video today.