How to Optimize Videos for YouTube Search

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April 19, 2023
4
min read
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YouTube is the best place to get your video content discovered. Being one of the largest search engines, it isn’t easy to get your video to the top. To rank higher, you’ll need to Optimize your YouTube videos with some search optimization techniques. It plays an important role in building a successful YouTube channel. It is considered to be the #1 driver to rank the channel to the top. 

However, how will you avoid getting lost in the ocean of videos? How will your video rank first in YouTube search results? From YouTube titles and hashtags to playlists and more, here are some of the best practices that will help your content reach a wider audience. Use these tips to create a solid YouTube SEO approach. 

Find the Ideal Length for the Video

Find the Ideal Length for the Video

Depending on your type of content, it is important to determine how long the video should be. Any video uploaded, being as short as a few minutes or even longer than fifteen minutes, must be informative and keep the audience hooked. Even though, you must ensure not to include fluff in your videos. It could prove harmful to your ranking as it would lead to people clicking away from your video. According to statistics, an interesting video of shorter length results in a higher retention rate and performs better in SEO and engagement. 

Insert your Keyword Naturally in the Video Title

Insert your Keyword Naturally in the Video Title

When a user is in discovery mode, the first thing that catches the eye is the title. So, the title must not only be compelling but also clear and concise. Keywords play a big role in the video title. The keyword must fit naturally into the title so that it will help you rank for that specific term. Nonetheless, optimizing the title with the help of the YouTube keyword tool will tell the viewers what they can expect in the video. Ensure that the title is fairly short (max 60 characters)  to avoid it being cut from the result pages. 

Optimize your Video Description

Optimize your Video Description

Based on research, the official character limit for the description of any video uploaded on YouTube is 1,000 characters. However, if you choose to write long descriptions, keep in mind that YouTube only displays the first 2 or 3 lines (100 characters). That's why it is suggested that you front-load the description with CTA, links, and Optimize it with other important information. A description with targeted keywords will help to show up in the suggested videos section on the sidebar, resulting in YouTube optimization. 

Tag your Video with Popular Keywords

Using tags allows viewers to understand what your video is about. It helps the audience to know the content as well as the context of the video. YouTube uses tags to associate your videos with the ones in the same niche. However, using an irrelevant tag will lead to penalties. It is important to think like a user and add tags in order of importance. Use the YouTube analytics dashboard to know the progress of your video plan for further videos based on the results. 

Upload a Custom Thumbnail Image

Upload a Custom Thumbnail Image

Your thumbnail is a great visual representation of your target keyword which will take relevant results further. It is the first thing that the audience first views. Along with the title, a thumbnail must also be associated with your video. It has the power to impact several clicks and views. YouTube provides auto-generated thumbnails, but it is highly recommended to upload a custom, catchy thumbnail that is 1280x720 pixels. Follow all the parameters and create a custom thumbnail that stands out from all other video results. 

Add Cards and End Screens

YouTube End Screens

Increase your YouTube video viewership with the help of cards and end screens. These are like notifications that appear in the middle and at the end of the videos. They send the viewers to other similar videos, playlists or website links. It helps to increase YouTube views. You can use YouTube insights from the research tag and discover what your audience does or does not like to watch. 

Make a Playlist

Make a Playlist

Once your video is uploaded, you must categorize it with the help of playlists. You can group your video with more similar content so it gains exposure to more viewers. It is important as YouTube will be able to understand what your video content is about. It will also help the video to rank higher and appear in more related search recommendations and also keep viewers hooked on your content, increasing your views and thus your rankings. 

Following these easy, straightforward, and helpful tips to Optimize your YouTube and produce high-quality video content will make a difference. Along with these tips, it is important to keep an eye on the YouTube analytics tool to understand how your video performs and what factors contribute to success!

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