Honest YouTube Advice for Creators

Did you know that the packaging of your YouTube video—its title, thumbnail, and hook—can account for up to 80% of its success? In this post, I’ll share insights from my journey as a YouTuber and provide actionable strategies to help you grow your channel.

How My Journey on YouTube Started

Every creator has a unique story, and mine began in 2008 when I first discovered YouTube. I was captivated by music YouTubers like Kurt Hugo Schneider and Sam Tsui, dreaming of creating my own music videos. However, it took me nearly a decade of procrastination before I finally hit record. I spent years waiting for the perfect gear and the right moment, but the truth is, I was just afraid to start.

In 2017, I finally decided to document my journey as a medical student and share my knowledge about getting into medical school. This shift from music to education was a game-changer for me. I realized that the key to success on YouTube is not just about having the right equipment but about sharing valuable content that resonates with your audience.

My Process of Video Creation

Creating engaging content starts with a solid idea. When brainstorming, I often think about the title, thumbnail, and hook—what I like to call the "TTH" formula. The title is crucial; it needs to be compelling enough to grab attention. For example, if I want to create a video about the book "Wanting" by Luke Burgis, I might title it "Why You Feel Behind in Life and What to Do About It." This title connects the concept of the book to a relatable feeling, making it more appealing.

Once I have a title, I focus on crafting a hook that connects the title to the content. This could involve addressing common pain points or questions that my audience might have. For instance, if my video is about productivity, I might start with, "If you clicked on this video, you might be feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list." This approach not only engages viewers but also establishes empathy.

How to Make Content That Excites You and Performs Well

Finding the balance between what excites you and what your audience wants to see can be challenging. I often think of it as a Venn diagram where one circle represents my interests and the other represents my audience's interests. The more overlap there is, the happier I am as a creator.

To create content that resonates, I recommend asking yourself: "What would I want to learn if I were in my audience's shoes?" This perspective helps me generate ideas that are both valuable and enjoyable to create. For example, if I want to discuss overcoming fear of rejection, I can draw from my own experiences and share actionable advice.

How to Find Your Niche

Identifying your niche is essential for success on YouTube. It involves understanding your target audience and your unique value proposition. When I started, my target audience was aspiring medical students, and my value proposition was helping them get into medical school. This clarity made it easier to create relevant content.

If you're unsure about your niche, consider who you would want to speak to if you had the opportunity to give a talk. This exercise can help you define your audience and tailor your content to meet their needs.

How to Overcome Creative Block

Creative blocks are a common challenge for many creators. One effective strategy I use is to engage in conversations with my team or friends. Discussing ideas and problems can spark inspiration and lead to new content concepts. Additionally, I’ve developed an app called VoicePal that helps creators overcome creative blocks by allowing them to speak their ideas out loud and generate scripts.

Another technique is to create a comfortable environment for filming. I often set up Zoom calls with team members to discuss video ideas, which helps me feel more relaxed and focused.

What's More Important: Title or Thumbnail?

When it comes to educational content, both the title and thumbnail play crucial roles in attracting viewers. The title should be compelling enough to draw clicks, while the thumbnail needs to be visually appealing. For established channels, the title might hold more weight, but for new creators, a strong thumbnail can make all the difference.

To optimize your thumbnails, keep them simple and limit the text to three to five words. This approach ensures that your message is clear and easily digestible, especially on mobile devices.

Should I Try to Follow Trends for Video Ideas?

Chasing trends can be tempting, but it’s often more beneficial to focus on creating valuable content for your audience. As a new creator, it’s essential to prioritize quality over quantity. Instead of trying to replicate popular trends, concentrate on delivering unique insights that resonate with your viewers.

How Do You Define a Good Video vs. a Bad Video?

Defining a good video can be subjective. For me, a good video is one that provides value, engages the audience, and encourages interaction. While views are important, the depth of impact—measured by comments and viewer feedback—also matters. A video that resonates deeply with a smaller audience can be more rewarding than one that simply garners a high view count.

Productivity Advice I Stopped Following

In my early days as a creator, I adhered strictly to productivity advice that often led to burnout. Now, I prioritize sustainability and enjoyment in my work. I’ve learned that it’s okay to take breaks and create content when I feel inspired rather than forcing myself to stick to a rigid schedule.

Work-Life Balance: Now vs. The Early Days

Achieving work-life balance is an ongoing challenge for many creators. In the past, I felt the pressure to produce content consistently, often sacrificing my well-being. Now, I focus on creating when I feel inspired, allowing for a more enjoyable and sustainable creative process.

Formula for Crafting a Hook

Crafting an effective hook is essential for engaging your audience. A good hook should reaffirm the title, agitate the viewer's pain points, and establish empathy. For example, if my video is titled "Why Your Boss Hates You," I might start by acknowledging the viewer's feelings of dread about work and then introduce actionable tips to improve their situation.

Rules for Creating Thumbnails

When designing thumbnails, remember to keep it simple and visually appealing. Use one face, limit text, and ensure that the thumbnail accurately represents the video content. This approach will help attract viewers and improve click-through rates.

Brand Deals and Sponsorships

As your channel grows, you may start receiving offers for brand deals. While these can be lucrative, it’s essential to choose partnerships that align with your values and audience. I recommend reading Justin Moore's book, Sponsor Magnet, for insights on navigating brand deals effectively.

What If My Niche Is Too Small?

If you’re concerned that your niche is too small, remember that there’s potential for growth in almost every area. Focus on delivering high-quality content that resonates with your target audience, and you may find opportunities for expansion.

Bolded Actionable Takeaway: Focus on creating valuable content that resonates with your audience rather than chasing trends or obsessing over views.

What challenges have you faced in your YouTube journey, and how have you overcome them? Share your thoughts in the comments!