Video Marketing for Small Businesses has become a powerful tool for boosting sales and brand awareness. Platforms like TikTok have dominated this space, especially with features like TikTok Shop, which seamlessly combines marketing with e-commerce. But with TikTok facing a potential ban in the US in 2025, businesses are exploring alternatives. Enter Rednote, a new platform that could reshape the landscape for small businesses. This blog looks at Rednote’s potential, TikTok’s impact, and strategies for adopting new platforms safely and effectively.
Why Short-Form Video Works for Small Businesses
Short-form videos are everywhere because they work. They’re quick to watch, easy to share, and can grab attention fast. Studies show that short videos are shared twice as often as longer ones (HubSpot, 2024). For small businesses, this means a cost-effective way to reach new audiences without a big marketing budget.
TikTok led the charge by making short-form content accessible and engaging for businesses. With its algorithm, even a small, local shop can go viral and attract a global audience. Features like TikTok Shop added another layer, letting businesses sell directly to viewers.
TikTok’s Impact on Small Businesses: 2024 vs 2025
2024 Success Stories TikTok’s influence on small business marketing has been huge. Campaigns tagged with “#TikTokMadeMeBuyIt” have driven massive sales for small businesses by tapping into communities with real buying power. TikTok Shop made it easier to convert viewers into customers without them leaving the app.
2025 Challenges However, the potential US ban on TikTok in 2025 could shake things up. Small businesses relying on TikTok might have to rethink their strategies. Critics of TikTok highlight concerns about data privacy, its addictive nature, and the way its algorithms amplify polarising content. While these are valid points, there’s no denying that TikTok’s ability to form niche communities has been a marketing goldmine.
What Is Rednote?
Rednote is a Chinese social media and e-commerce platform launched in 2013. It started as a platform for users to share shopping experiences and product recommendations but over time, it evolved into a far more complex platform covering various lifestyle categories, including fashion, beauty, travel, and more. In its modern iteration, it appears to offer similar benefits to TikTok but with some different features. It focuses on video marketing for small businesses, offering tools to create engaging content and connect with audiences. Rednote’s key features include:
- A user-friendly interface for creating short videos.
- Advanced analytics to track performance.
- Monetisation options tailored to small businesses.
- A younger target demographic than Meta-owned social platforms like Instagram and Facebook
If TikTok faces restrictions, platforms like Rednote could attract businesses looking to fill the gap. However, it’s important to approach any new platform with a clear understanding of its capabilities and risks.
The Risks and Rewards of New Platforms
Opportunities Adopting a new platform early can help your business stand out. Platforms with rapidly spiking new users like Rednote often reward early adopters with increased visibility. These spaces also allow businesses to connect with smaller, focused communities that have strong buying power.
Risks However, new platforms come with risks. Like any other part of professional conduct online, poor data hygiene can expose your business to scams or data breaches. For example, sharing sensitive business information within these platforms to users that could be ‘spoofing’ a trusted figure.
It’s also worth noting that new platforms may not gain traction or could shut down suddenly, so don’t rely solely on them for your marketing strategy. So when thinking about adding a new platform into your business’ marketing mix, it’s prudent to regularly review privacy settings and terms of use.
Other Emerging Platforms for 2025
Rednote isn’t the only platform worth exploring. Others like Clapper and Lemon8 are gaining attention, along with more established tools like Instagram Reels and Youtube Shorts. When considering a platform, focus on:
- Audience fit: Does the platform align with your target customers?
- Resources: Can your team commit the time and budget to create content for it?
- Longevity: Is the platform likely to stick around?
Testing content and analysing performance are essential steps before fully committing to any platform.
Is Your Business in a Position to Embrace Rednote?
Video marketing for small businesses is here to stay, and exploring platforms like Rednote could give your business an edge in 2025 but balance is key. Experiment with new platforms cautiously while maintaining a solid presence on proven ones. Focus on creating engaging, authentic content that resonates with your audience.
Want to discuss building internet safety and human risk management into your 2025 strategy? Contact Clearsky IT to explore tools and approaches that work for your business.
Further reading: Will Tiktok be Banned in the UK?
