Modern Marketing for Legacy Businesses
Why It’s Time to Evolve Beyond Traditional Media
For decades, radio ads, newspapers, and word-of-mouth were the go-to marketing tools for local businesses. And while they had their time and place, the marketing landscape has shifted dramatically.
Today, video, photography, and digital media offer businesses something traditional advertising never could; direct, scalable, and measurable engagement with their audience.
If you’re still relying on outdated marketing methods, it’s time to evolve. Here’s why embracing modern marketing strategies will help your business reach new customers, stay competitive, and grow like never before.
1. Traditional Marketing Isn’t Enough Anymore
Older businesses often rely on methods that worked in the past:
Radio ads—low visibility, expensive and limited to specific time slots.
Newspaper ads—declining readership and high costs.
Cold calls & flyers—inefficient and easily ignored.
These methods lack the ability to truly engage with customers in the way modern media does. Video, photography, and social media allow businesses to reach audiences where they already spend their time, online.
Example: A family-owned roofing company that once relied on local newspaper ads could switch to video testimonials and drone footage of their work, instantly making their services more appealing and shareable.
2. Video & Photography Drive More Engagement Than Ever
Nothing captures attention faster and more effectively than video and professional imagery.
Videos tell your story in a way static ads never could.
Professional photography showcases your products/services with clarity and credibility.
Social media + visuals = instant reach to new potential customers.
Instead of hoping someone hears your radio ad or sees your print listing, you can guarantee they engage with your content on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Google.
Example: A law firm that traditionally relied on billboards could create short-form explainer videos answering common legal questions, positioning themselves as experts while attracting potential clients.
3. Modern Marketing is Cost-Effective & Scalable
One of the biggest misconceptions about digital marketing is that it’s expensive. In reality, video and photography offer a far better return on investment than traditional ads.
One video can be repurposed for websites, social media, and paid ads.
You can track performance, unlike with print or radio ads.
Your content works 24/7, while a radio spot disappears after it airs.
Example: A restaurant that once relied on coupon mailers can now use high-quality food photography and Instagram videos to attract local customers instantly.
4. Your Competitors Are Already Adapting
The biggest risk to your business isn’t change, it’s staying the same while your competitors evolve.
Local businesses are now running Facebook and YouTube ads.
Brands are creating engaging Instagram reels and TikToks.
Customers expect modern visuals; blurry photos and outdated websites turn them away.
Example: A real estate agency using virtual home tours and drone videos will easily outperform an agency still relying on newspaper listings.
5. The Future of Marketing is Visual
If you want your business to stay relevant, modern marketing isn’t optional, it’s essential. The best part? You don’t need to reinvent the wheel.
How to Get Started Today:
Upgrade Your Website with new photography and video content.
Create Your First Video—a simple introduction to your business or a customer testimonial.
Use Social Media Consistently—post engaging content instead of relying on print ads.
Consider Paid Digital Ads—reach the exact audience you want with targeted video ads.
The businesses that adapt will continue to grow. The ones that don’t? They’ll struggle to compete in an era where attention is digital.
Final Thoughts: Make the Switch Before It’s Too Late
If your business is still relying on radio, print ads, or outdated marketing techniques, it’s time for a change. Video, photography, and digital media offer direct customer engagement, measurable results, and unlimited scalability.
At Make Something Media, we help businesses like yours modernize their marketing strategies through high-quality video, photography, and digital content.
