YouTube is more than just an entertainment platform; it is an essential marketing tool to add to your radar.
If while determining which online marketing tools will work best for your business, you haven't considered starting a YouTube channel, you're missing out on some great opportunities. YouTube is being used by a lot of great businesses out there.
So whether you are like Donald Trump, Bill Gates or CEO Cecilia Ibru running a billion-dollar company, or running your own small business from your living room, using YouTube can help you get to the next level.
Every View Counts
Many businesses start using YouTube, then stop when they notice they aren't getting many views. But when you are advertising your business or trying to sell a product, having a viral video isn't the goal.
While it helps to gain that type of media popularity, it isn't necessary to help use videos to your advantage. Every single view you have is another prospective customer.
Whether you have 10, 100, or 1,000 views on a video, those are all people that might just consider doing business with you.
Make it Personal
Another common mistake businesses have with their YouTube channel is being too professional.
Of course you want to keep a certain persona while creating videos, but don't be afraid to get personal. Many customers want to know a company's story and background before doing business with them.
If you can get a short video showing clips of your warehouse or office, or provide a simple slideshow of your employees at your holiday party, you are going to get views.
Backlinking Potential
Another reason to use YouTube in your marketing plan is for the backlinking potential.
Every video you have can have your website or blog link, which not only draws more attention to your business, but helps with backlinking purposes.
The more video and views your videos get, the more that links gains in its ranking. This can help with getting your website bumped up on organic search engine results.
Tips for Making Videos
If you have decided to go ahead and give YouTube a try for your business, consider the following tips for making and sharing videos:
- Keep the Videos Short - Most viewers on YouTube aren't going to sit through a 20-minute long video. Keep them short, preferably at four minutes or less. Many people stop watching as quickly as 2-3 minutes in, so get the most important information out by then.
- Use Editing Wisely - Even if you use a more personal touch in making and filming the videos, take your time during the editing process. You do want the final product to look professionally done, regardless of what type of video you are sharing. It makes a big difference to your viewers when they see flawless editing of the videos they are watching.
- Share Your Success - Another thing viewers like to see is how successful you are. Don't be afraid to share your milestones and accomplishments. These are things people want to see, not just because it can help get you more business, but helps you keep viewers as well.