As with all social platforms, YouTube is looking to capitalize on the popularity of short-form video clips, with YouTube Shorts now driving massive growth in views and engagement within the app.
Indeed, Shorts are now YouTube’s fastest-growing content format, driving over 70 billion daily views. Which means that if you want to maximize your YouTube opportunities, you need to at least be considering short-form content, and this week, YouTube’s shared some pointers on how to get into Shorts for your channel.
First off, YouTube notes that you don’t need a fancy set-up for Shorts content, just your phone, and maybe a tripod and/or a ring light. But other than that, you don’t need expensive equipment to make great Shorts.
YouTube suggests that Shorts creators consider their specific niche, and what resonates with their audience, when considering what their Shorts should be.
As per YouTube:
“Tutorials, comedic skits, behind-the-scenes glimpses, trending challenges, and musical snippets are all popular options.”
Shorts are limited to 3 minutes, so you only need a quick concept, while film in vertical 9:16 aspect ratio will ensure your Short is optimized for the Shorts feed.
YouTube also highlights these key elements:
- Compelling Titles: Write clear and engaging titles that capture attention.
- Strategic Hashtags: Use relevant hashtags to increase discoverability. Popular hashtags include #Shorts, #YouTubeShorts, and niche-specific tags.
- Descriptive Descriptions: Add a brief description to provide context and encourage engagement.
- Thumbnail Optimization: Though shorts are mostly viewed in feed, make sure that your channel as a whole looks good.
The note on hashtags is somewhat interesting, in that other platforms seem to be moving away from hashtags as a key driver of discovery.
But then again, Threads has recently re-emphasized tags in posts, so they clearly still do have a purpose, even as algorithmic identification of context improves.
Finally, YouTube shares some more general notes on Shorts creation, and building your Shorts audience.
- Consistency is Key: Post Shorts regularly to build an audience.
- Link Your Content: Shorts can link viewers to more of your content, whether it’s your latest video, another Short, or a live stream. Give your viewers a deeper dive into your content.
- Interact with Viewers: Respond to comments and engage with your audience.
- Analyze Your Performance: Use YouTube Analytics to track your Shorts’ performance and identify what resonates with your viewers.
- Promote Your Shorts: Share your Shorts on other social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
- Utilize Trending Audio: Using trending audio will increase the likelihood of your shorts being shown to a wider audience.
Overall, YouTube advises that Shorts creators should look to be authentic, and experiment with the format to find the right Shorts style that resonates with their audience.
Some helpful notes, and again, with Shorts continuing to rise in the app, these could help you tap into Shorts as another driver of content success.
You can check out YouTube’s full Shorts tips overview here.