ULTIMATE YOUTUBE CHECKLIST

1- Create and name your channel

To set up a Youtube Channel, you need a Google Account. Then go to Youtube and create your channel

2- Set a schedule

Decide if you´ll publish your content weekly, bi-weekly, etc., and on what days. Viewers like structure; they are more likely to subscribe if they know how often they´ll get a video

3- Verify your channel

You can only access Youtube´s advanced features by verifying your channel. It´s super easy.

4- Upload your channel icon

If you have a web series, use a logo. Personal brands should use a headshot. For brand consistency, use the same photo you use on your other platforms.

5- Create Youtube channel art

This valuable real estate is the billboard for your Youtube channel. Use it to tell your viewers who you are, what you do, and when they can expect content from you.

6- Add social media links and website

You can add up to five links leading from your header to your social media and website. It´s a great way to connect with your subscribers on multiple platforms.

7- Optimize your “about” section

Here´s where you can sell your channel to potential subscribers. Tell them what they´ll gain by watching and why they should subscribe. The keywords in your “about” section also help your channel rank higher in search results.

8- Add a branding watermark to get viewers to subscribe

Youtube allows you to add a branding watermark to all your videos so non-subscribers can become subscribers with one click. Go to your channel settings to upload a watermark.

9- Create a channel trailer

You can upload a trailer for your channel that will autoplay for people who aren´t subscribed to your channel. Keep it short, exciting, and end with a call to action to subscribe. Name the trailer with your web series name or, if you´re a personal brand, your name so it´ll come up first in search.

10- Upload your first video

Be sure to use a keyword rich title, description and tags. These should contain the exact keywords your viewers would type into search to find your video

11- Create an eye catching thumbnail 

Your thumbnail is mini movie poster for your content. Its only job is to get people to watch. IF your thumbnail is boring no one will click on it when it comes up in search. Bright, high-resolution, compelling thumbnails perform well.

12- Add a call to action to your video

Don´t forget to add visual and verbal calls to action for viewers to comment, like and subscribe

13- Utilize closed captions

Closed captions can give your videos the boost they need to show up in the search

14- Share your video´s URL to social media

Keep in mind the first 24-48 hours is very important for your video for ranking in search

15- Create playlist of your content

Playlists show up in search results just like videos do. For web series, playlists are also a great way to ensure your audience will watch them in the order you intended.

16- Cross-promote your channels using a subscription link

A subscription link is the secret sauce for increasing subscribers.

17- See what´s working and what´s not

The audience retention graphs in your Youtube analytics will teach you what your audience likes and help you adjust your future videos.

Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itscamilitaok/