Starting a YouTube Channel is a smart move for a freelancer, given to the fact that it is the only free video viewing platform, where over 300 hours of videos are uploaded each minute.
If you want to take the plunge in to the YouTube business, you have to learn the basics and know how to start a YouTube Channel. If you need valuable direction, we are here to guide you.
Motivation is the key…
First of all, don’t get scared by the numbers; it’s never too late to start a Freelance YouTube Channel. The platform is booming and will never stop to, and as opposed to the controversies of the past, it’s still possible for a newbie to grow in the YouTube realm.
But before you take the steering in your hands, you need to consider certain things; as goes with any freelance business, there is no guarantee with YouTube as well.
Preparations Before Starting A YouTube Channel
- You have to fill in the blank. Your reason for starting a YouTube channel is ‘_____’? Three elements to consider to fill out the blank: Topic coverage (What); Target audience (Who); Reason for your existence (Why should people watch).
- How often do you want to make videos? Once you have decided on the content, you need the frequency or schedule. However, frequency also depends on the type of content you want to make. For example, recipes, vlogs or play videos can be released every day. Whereas skits, short stories or dance videos could be launched twice a month, and educational videos like exercises, trivia and researches, probably once a week.
- Content is important but style is even more crucial in YouTube business. You have to choose a particular style to present your videos. Examples include: one minute videos, smart titles, sub titles, only video content, both audio and video content and so on.
- When style is decided, you need to make up your mind about the equipment to use. What kind of camera would suit best for the channel? Do you need a tripod for your phone or camera? If yes, what type? Are microphones, green screen and screen capture necessary for your video shoots? This is just an overview; you can read full article on equipment you need to start a YouTube channel.
Getting Started With Your YouTube Channel
Now that you have got the hang of it, here are few essential steps to follow to get your YouTube channel up and live.
1. The Basics – Creating Your Channel
The first thing is Creating Your Own Channel on YouTube; with simple clicks, you will be able to set up one, easily. However, before you start a business, you have to think of a ‘Brand Name’, a name that suits your business and will be the face of your marketing and promotion goals. The name should represent you, your company mission and vision and your skills.
- Sign in to YouTube
- Click on user icon (right top)
- Click on gear icon to get in to YouTube account settings
- Click ‘Create a New Channel’
- Choose ‘Use a Business or Other Name’
- Add your Brand Name and click ‘Create’.
After you create the channel, you have to fill in the ‘About’ section. It is basically company profile or channel description. Here, describe your brand and what viewers can expect out of it. You can add links to your company website (if any) or your other social media sites. Make sure you create a strong and powerful profile.
Once this is done, you have to work on your cover photo. Your cover photo should be maximum 4MB file size with a photo ratio 2560 x 1440 Pixels.
2. Expand Your Market By Knowing Your Market Type
You should have more than needed content before you start your YouTube video. Like discussed earlier, it’s upto you to decide what you want the viewers to see and understand. Your content should aim at a target demographic of your business.
For example, if you wish to upload recipe videos then those recipes should target a particular niche such as Indian audience, Chinese audience, Bakers, Home cooks, Vegans etc.
Create Channel Trailers
Before launching your videos, you have to appeal your viewers with a Channel trailer. Channel trailers are short and sweet videos that play the part of an introduction – Who are you? What is your business about? What kind of content you will post? Channel trailer will also be your practicing session before the actual video launch.
Upload First Official Video
With your channel trailer, you will have a bit of an experience and practice by now. Channelize your passion and film your official video. Ensureyou use the best equipment and the perfect editing tool. Upload option is on the right side of the screen when you log into your account.
3. Search Optimization
Uploading video alone will not garner viewers and likes (remember each minute 300 hours of videos get uploaded). When uploading, you will be asked to fill in the ‘Title’, ‘Description’ and ‘Tags’.
Tags and titles are essential components that make your videos discover able in YouTube Search, exactly like how it works on website SEO. Your title should be keyword rich and specific. You will master the skill as you progress in your work.
If you play your cards right, you will find your videos ranking high not only on YouTube but also on Google.
4. Engage With Your Viewers
It may take some time before viewers start hitting you with likes and views. However, if you want to succeed, engage with your audiences and promote yourself persistently. Find a community and build a network around your channel. Reply to comments, ask and answer queries and most importantly, work on the feedbacks.
5. Promote – Integrate Your Channel With Your Website And Invest On YouTube Advertisements
If you have a website, share your YouTube videos on your website. Make sure they are on the home page, up in the centre. Share videos outside your YouTube channel to drive more traffic. Medium includes: Blogs, Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter and WhatsApp. You can also sync your website to your channel.
If you want to up your game and ready to join the flying saucer, you may want to invest in YouTube advertisement to get your brand across the world. If you are targeting a specific audience group like age, location, and interest, YouTube Ads should be your best ally.
