How to get more views on your online videos

Views are a critical metric in determining your success as a creator of online content. In order to build the devoted and engaged audience you crave, you first have to get them to watch your content. That can be tough. Where do you begin? Well, we’ve got your back! Here are a few tried-and-true tips to help you get more views on your online content.

Think about shareability

Social media was created to be shared. To make a successful video the first question you have to ask yourself is: ‘would anyone share this?’. Is you can answer ‘yes’ to that question half the battle is won. So what makes something shareable? Here are a few criteria:

• Does your video solve a problem?
• Is your video relatable to the viewer?
• Does your video delight or inspire the viewer?
• Is the content of your video unique or incredibly engaging?

These are a few questions you should ask yourself when you are making a video. Take a look at some of the most viewed videos on YouTube. They are either incredibly helpful 10 Tricks for Perfect Winged Eyeliner or they are delightful and highly engaging FULL FACE USING ONLY HIGHLIGHTERS.

Shares are a critical piece of the video views puzzle. Shares help your content reach people outside of your network. Shares can help you grow your channel as well!

If you want it, ask for it!

We can’t stress this enough. Ask for the engagement you want. When you are just starting out on YouTube, send an email to everyone in your network asking them to watch your video (and engage with it). A simple ask is a great way to get eyes on your content.

Utilize e-mail marketing

If you are an online influencer, chances are you have a presence across many channels. Many influencers have had great success with email marketing. Set up an email database that your followers can subscribe to. That way you have one consolidated place where all your fans are stored. You can send out weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly email alerts where you can ask your followers for views on your new content.

Post your videos in multiple places

Post snippets of your video on Instagram and Instagram Stories as a teaser. Repost your video on Facebook with a link to your YouTube channel. Do not limit yourself to one channel. Post your video on as many platforms as you can. This will accomplish a few important things:

• It will increase your potential views and it will also increase the reach of your content and the awareness of your platform.
• Sharing your videos multiple places will also help you understand where your audience is. Let’s say your video gets double the views on Facebook than it did on YouTube. Understanding these nuances will give you a better idea of your audience and who your content resonates with the most.

You don’t need to be fancy

There is a common misconception that you need the best equipment and lighting to create successful video content. This is not necessarily true. If your content is authentic and engaging, people won’t care if you have the latest ring light or if you edited your video in Final Cut Pro. So instead of potentially wasting time and money on the best equipment, try to focus on the content of your videos first. From there you can optimize your work with fancy content as your channel grows.

Don’t forget to be yourself

The most successful YouTubers are unquestionably true to themselves. That is part of the draw of online content creators! Don’t try to replicate a famous YouTuber’s personality in an effort to get more views. Your content is perfect just how it is. Use your unique strengths to increase your views and build your following.

How have you increased the view count on your videos? Let us know your tips in the comments below!