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Key Takeaways
- Define Your Promise to the Viewer: Your channel’s success starts with a clear focus. Consistently create high-quality content that solves a specific problem or provides distinct value for a well-defined audience.
- Optimize for the First Impression: A viewer’s decision to watch happens in seconds. Capture their attention with irresistible, keyword-focused titles and eye-catching thumbnails that clearly communicate your video’s value.
- Encourage Deeper Engagement: Use YouTube’s built-in tools to keep viewers on your channel longer. Guide them with playlists and end screens, and build loyalty by responding to comments to foster a strong community.
How Do You Get More YouTube Subscribers?
Hitting that first 100, 1,000, or even 10,000 subscribers on YouTube feels like a huge milestone—because it is. But getting there can feel like a slow, uphill climb. Gaining subscribers isn’t just about chasing a number; it’s about building a dedicated community that genuinely looks forward to your next video. These are the people who will watch, comment, and share your content, signaling to the YouTube algorithm that your channel is worth recommending to new viewers. A strong subscriber base is the foundation of a successful channel, turning casual viewers into loyal fans who support your work and help you grow.
So, how do you convince people to hit that subscribe button? It’s less about finding a secret hack and more about consistently creating content that people want to watch. Think of your channel as a promise to your viewers—a promise of valuable information, entertainment, or inspiration. Every video is a chance to deliver on that promise and build trust. Growing your channel takes a mix of creativity, strategy, and a genuine desire to connect with your audience. The good news is that you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Below, we’re breaking down 21 actionable strategies you can start using today to attract more viewers and turn them into subscribers.
Getting Started: Your Toolkit for Creating YouTube Videos
The idea of creating YouTube videos can feel intimidating, especially when you see polished creators with professional setups. But the truth is, you don’t need a fancy studio or expensive gear to get started. The most successful channels are built on great content, not just high-tech equipment. Your journey begins with a simple toolkit: the camera you already own, a focus on clear audio, and a willingness to learn as you go. This guide will walk you through the essential tools and mindset you need to start creating compelling videos, from filming and editing to designing thumbnails that grab attention.
First Things First: Equipment and Mindset for Beginners
Adopt a “Just Start” Mentality
The biggest hurdle for many new creators is the pursuit of perfection. Instead of waiting for the perfect script or equipment, the best advice is to simply begin. Press record and start making videos, focusing on making each new video slightly better than the last. You’ll learn more from the process of creating and publishing than you ever will from planning alone. This hands-on approach is the fastest way to find your voice and build momentum on the platform.
Prioritize Clear Audio and Good Lighting
Before you worry about camera quality, focus on two critical elements: audio and lighting. Viewers will forgive grainy video, but they’ll click away instantly if they can’t hear you clearly. A simple external microphone can make a huge difference in your sound quality. Similarly, good lighting is essential for a professional look. Natural light from a window is a great free option, or you can invest in a basic ring light to ensure your shots are always bright and clear.
Use the Camera You Already Have
You don’t need to buy a new camera to start your YouTube channel. The smartphone in your pocket is a powerful tool that can likely record in high-quality formats like 4K. Start with what you have and learn how to get the most out of it. Mastering fundamental skills like framing, stability, and lighting with your phone will build a strong foundation that will serve you well, regardless of the equipment you use in the future.
Choosing Your Video Editing Software
Powerful and Free Video Editors
Once you’ve filmed your clips, you’ll need software to piece them together into a cohesive story. Fortunately, there are powerful, free options available that rival paid programs. DaVinci Resolve is a professional-grade editor that offers a robust free version, perfect for everything from simple cuts to advanced color grading. For those who prefer editing on a phone or tablet, CapCut is an incredibly user-friendly app that makes mobile editing a breeze without sacrificing powerful features.
What to Know About the YouTube Create App
YouTube offers its own official editing app called YouTube Create, designed specifically for creators. It simplifies the process of making and editing videos directly for your channel. Because it’s integrated with YouTube, it streamlines the workflow from editing to uploading, making it a convenient choice for beginners who want to stay within the YouTube ecosystem and get their content live with minimal friction.
Helpful Features in Modern Video Editors
As you explore different editors, look for a few key features that will make your life easier. The ability to trim, cut, and crop clips is fundamental. You’ll also want tools to add transitions between scenes, combine video with photos and audio, and remove distracting background noise. Many modern editors, including YouTube Create, even offer an auto-captioning feature, which is a huge time-saver and makes your content more accessible to a wider audience.
Designing Thumbnails That Get Clicks
Free Tools for Thumbnail Creation
Your video’s thumbnail is its billboard—it’s the first thing viewers see and a major factor in whether they click. You don’t need to be a graphic designer to create compelling thumbnails. There are fantastic free tools that make the process simple and intuitive. Canva is a popular choice with countless templates and easy-to-use design elements specifically for YouTube thumbnails. For those who want something that functions more like Photoshop without the cost, Photopea is a powerful, browser-based editor that is completely free. Other great options include Gimp and CapCut, which also has built-in thumbnail creation features. Experiment with these tools to find the one that best fits your workflow and helps you create eye-catching designs.
Where to Learn Video Creation and Editing
Using YouTube as Your Classroom
The best place to learn how to succeed on YouTube is YouTube itself. The platform is a massive library of tutorials on every aspect of video creation, from lighting techniques and editing tricks to channel strategy and audience growth. Whenever you have a question or want to learn a new skill, a quick search will almost certainly yield dozens of helpful videos from experienced creators who have already figured it out and are willing to share their knowledge.
Recommended Channels for Aspiring Creators
To get started, check out channels dedicated to helping new creators. Think Media, hosted by Sean Cannell, offers practical advice on cameras, strategy, and monetization. For deep dives into the art of storytelling through editing, The Editing Podcast with Hillier-Smith is an invaluable resource that can help you think more like a professional editor. By following and learning from these experts, you can accelerate your growth and avoid common beginner mistakes.
21 Ways to Get More Subscribers on YouTube
Growing a YouTube channel from the ground up can feel like a huge challenge, but it’s absolutely achievable with the right approach. It’s not about finding one secret trick; it’s about consistently applying a set of proven strategies that work together to attract viewers and turn them into loyal subscribers. Think of it as building a house—you need a solid foundation, strong walls, and a welcoming design to make people want to stick around.
The key is to focus on two main areas: creating content that people genuinely want to watch and making it as easy as possible for them to find it. The YouTube algorithm rewards channels that keep viewers engaged and on the platform longer. That means your job is to create videos that are valuable, well-made, and optimized for discovery. From defining your niche to designing standout thumbnails and engaging with your community, every small effort contributes to your channel’s growth. Below are 21 actionable steps you can start implementing today to build momentum and see real results.
1. Create Videos Your Audience Actually Wants to Watch
The foundation of any successful YouTube channel is content that serves the viewer. Whether you’re educating, entertaining, or inspiring, your videos should solve a problem or fulfill a need. The YouTube algorithm heavily favors content that holds people’s attention, so one of your main goals should be to improve your watch time. When viewers stick around for most or all of your video, it signals to YouTube that your content is valuable. Focus on creating videos that are so helpful or engaging that people can’t help but watch until the end. This is the single most important factor for long-term growth.
2. Improve Your Video and Audio Quality
You don’t need a Hollywood budget to create professional-looking videos, but quality does matter. Viewers are more likely to watch and subscribe if your videos are visually appealing and easy to hear. Start with the basics: good lighting, clear audio, and stable camera shots. Even a simple ring light and an external microphone can make a world of difference. As your channel grows, you can invest in better equipment and editing software to give your content a more polished feel. Clean edits, smooth transitions, and clear graphics will make your videos more enjoyable to watch and help you stand out.
3. Find Your Niche and Stick to It
Trying to create content for everyone often results in creating content for no one. The most successful channels have a clear focus or niche. When you concentrate on a specific topic—like vegan baking, minimalist home organization, or retro video game reviews—you attract a dedicated audience that is genuinely interested in what you have to say. This targeted approach makes it easier to build a loyal community of subscribers who will eagerly await your next video. A well-defined niche also helps YouTube understand who your content is for, making it more likely to recommend your videos to the right viewers.
4. Use Keywords to Help Viewers Find You
YouTube is the world’s second-largest search engine, so treating it like one is crucial for discovery. A smart keyword strategy helps new viewers find your content when they search for topics you cover. Use tools like Google Trends or YouTube’s own search bar autocomplete to find out what people are looking for. Once you have your keywords, be sure to use them in your video titles, descriptions, and tags. This helps the algorithm understand what your video is about and show it to people who are actively searching for that information.
5. Post New Videos Consistently
Consistency is key to building an audience on YouTube. When you publish videos on a predictable schedule—whether it’s once a week or twice a month—you build anticipation and create a routine for your subscribers. They know when to expect new content from you, which encourages them to come back to your channel regularly. This doesn’t mean you have to burn yourself out by posting daily. Find a realistic schedule that you can stick to long-term. A consistent uploading schedule signals to both your audience and the algorithm that your channel is active and reliable.
6. Repurpose Videos as YouTube Shorts
YouTube Shorts are a fantastic tool for reaching new audiences quickly. These short, vertical videos are designed for quick consumption and have the potential to go viral, exposing your channel to thousands or even millions of new viewers. A great strategy is to repurpose clips from your longer videos into engaging Shorts. Pull out a key tip, a funny moment, or a surprising fact and edit it into a 15-60 second clip. This not only gives you more content to post but also acts as a trailer, encouraging viewers to check out your full-length videos and subscribe for more.
7. Write Titles That Grab Attention
Your video title is one of the first things a potential viewer sees, and it has a huge impact on whether they decide to click. A great title should be accurate, intriguing, and optimized with keywords. Aim to spark curiosity without resorting to clickbait. Phrases like “How To,” “5 Mistakes to Avoid,” or “The Ultimate Guide” work well because they promise clear value. Think about what would make you want to click on a video and try to craft compelling titles that grab attention in a crowded feed. A strong title can dramatically increase your click-through rate and bring more viewers to your content.
8. Create Thumbnails That Stop the Scroll
Along with your title, your thumbnail is your video’s billboard. It needs to be eye-catching and clearly communicate what your video is about in a single glance. Use bright, contrasting colors, large and easy-to-read text, and expressive faces to draw the viewer’s eye. Look at what other creators in your niche are doing and think about how you can make your thumbnails different and more compelling. A well-designed thumbnail is often the deciding factor when a viewer chooses which video to watch, so it’s worth spending time to create a great one.
9. Optimize Your YouTube Video Descriptions
The video description is a prime piece of real estate for SEO and for giving viewers more context. The first few lines are the most important, as they appear in search results, so make sure they summarize the video and include your main keywords. Use the rest of the space to provide more detail, add links to your social media or products, and include relevant hashtags. A detailed description not only helps YouTube’s algorithm rank your video but also gives interested viewers a place to find more information and connect with you outside of the platform.
10. Add Relevant Tags to Your Videos
Tags are another way to give YouTube’s algorithm context about your video’s topic. While they may not be as critical as they once were, they still play a role in helping your video appear in search results and as a suggested video. Use a mix of broad and specific tags. For a video on making sourdough bread, you might use broad tags like “baking” and “cooking,” as well as specific ones like “sourdough starter,” “artisan bread,” and “no-knead bread recipe.” These tags help YouTube understand the nuances of your content and show it to the right audience.
11. Keep People Watching with YouTube Cards
Once you have someone watching your video, you want to keep them on your channel for as long as possible. YouTube Cards are clickable pop-ups that you can add to your videos to direct viewers to other content. You can use them to link to another one of your videos, a relevant playlist, or even your channel page. Strategically place cards at points in your video where a viewer might naturally be interested in learning more about a related topic. This is an easy way to promote your other videos and increase your channel’s overall session watch time.
12. Reply to Comments and Build Community
The comments section is where you can build a real connection with your audience. Make an effort to read and respond to as many comments as you can, especially in the first few hours after a video goes live. Answering questions, thanking viewers for their feedback, and “hearting” positive comments shows that you value your community. This interaction not only fosters loyalty but also signals to YouTube that your video is generating engagement, which can help its performance. A lively comments section can turn casual viewers into a dedicated community.
13. Go Live to Connect with Your Audience
Going live is a fantastic way to engage with your subscribers in real time. A live Q&A session allows your audience to ask you questions directly, creating a more personal and interactive experience. It’s a chance to show your personality, share behind-the-scenes insights, and make your viewers feel like they’re part of an exclusive conversation. Promoting your live stream in advance can build excitement and ensure a good turnout. These sessions are great for strengthening your community and getting immediate feedback on what your audience wants to see from you.
14. Partner with Other YouTubers
Collaborating with another creator in your niche is one of the fastest ways to grow your audience. When you create a video with another YouTuber, you get exposed to their entire subscriber base, and they get exposed to yours. It’s a win-win situation that can bring a wave of new, highly relevant subscribers to your channel. Reach out to creators who are at a similar stage of growth and have an audience that would appreciate your content. A successful collaboration can introduce your channel to a whole new group of potential fans.
15. Reach New Audiences with YouTube Ads
If you have a budget, running YouTube ads can be an effective way to get your content in front of a larger, targeted audience. You can promote your best-performing video or your channel trailer to viewers who have shown interest in topics related to your niche. This paid strategy can accelerate your growth by helping you reach people who might not have discovered your channel organically. Start with a small budget to test what works, and focus on ads that are designed to attract subscribers rather than just generate views.
16. Embed YouTube Videos on Your Website
If you have a blog or website, make sure you’re using it to promote your YouTube channel. Embedding your videos directly into relevant blog posts gives your website visitors an easy way to discover your video content. For example, if you write a blog post about a recipe, embed the corresponding YouTube video where you show how to make it. This not only adds value to your blog post but also drives traffic from your website to your YouTube channel, helping you gain views and subscribers from your existing audience.
17. Create Playlists to Encourage Binge-Watching
Playlists are a powerful but often underutilized tool for increasing watch time. When you group related videos into a playlist, the next video starts playing automatically after the first one ends, encouraging viewers to keep watching. Organize your content into logical series or themes, such as “Beginner’s Guide to…” or “Project Walkthroughs.” A well-organized playlist can turn a single video view into a multi-video session, significantly increasing your watch time and keeping viewers engaged with your content for longer.
18. Promote the Videos That Earn You Subscribers
Dive into your YouTube Analytics to see which of your videos are bringing in the most subscribers. These are your “subscriber magnet” videos. Once you identify them, you should promote them heavily. Feature them on your channel homepage, link to them in cards and end screens on your other videos, and consider running ads to them. Understanding what type of content resonates most with new subscribers gives you a clear roadmap for what to create next. Focusing on what works is a smart way to streamline your content strategy and attract more loyal viewers.
19. Ask Viewers to Subscribe in Your End Screen
The last 5-20 seconds of your video are a perfect opportunity to ask viewers to subscribe. YouTube’s end screen feature allows you to add a clickable subscribe button and a suggested video directly on top of your video. Always include a clear call to action, both verbally and visually, encouraging people to subscribe if they enjoyed your content. Many viewers simply need a reminder, and making it easy for them to do so can significantly increase your subscriber conversion rate. Don’t let that valuable end-of-video real estate go to waste.
20. Brand Your YouTube Channel
A strong brand helps your channel look professional and makes it instantly recognizable. This includes your channel name, banner art, profile picture, and the style of your thumbnails and video graphics. A consistent brand image ties all of your content together and helps viewers remember you. Think about the overall look and feel you want your channel to have. Is it bright and energetic, or calm and minimalist? A cohesive brand helps build trust and makes your channel feel like a destination rather than just a collection of random videos.
21. Cross-Promote Your Videos on Other Platforms
Don’t rely solely on YouTube to bring you viewers. Promote your new videos everywhere you have an online presence. Share them with your email list, post them on your social media accounts like Instagram, X, and Facebook, and mention them in relevant online communities or forums. The more places you can share your video, the more initial views it will get. This early momentum can signal to the YouTube algorithm that your video is worth promoting, helping it gain traction on the platform itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will it take to get my first 1,000 subscribers? There’s no magic number for this, as every creator’s path is different. Growth depends on your niche, how consistently you post, and how well your videos connect with viewers. Instead of focusing on a specific timeline, concentrate on creating a library of valuable content. Think of it as building a strong foundation. The more helpful or entertaining videos you have, the more opportunities people have to find your channel and decide to stick around.
Is it better to post one amazing video a month or four decent videos? This is a classic debate, but quality almost always wins. The YouTube algorithm rewards videos that keep people watching. One well-produced video that viewers watch all the way through will perform better than four average videos that people click away from after a minute. The key is to find a sustainable balance. Create the best possible content you can on a schedule that you can realistically maintain without burning out.
Do I really need expensive equipment to start a successful channel? Absolutely not. Many successful YouTubers started with just their smartphone. Your primary focus should be on clear audio and good lighting, which can be achieved with an affordable microphone and some natural light from a window. Viewers will forgive a video that isn’t shot in 4K, but they won’t stick around if they can’t hear what you’re saying. The value of your content is far more important than the price of your camera.
What’s more important: a great thumbnail and title, or a great video? They are equally important because they do two different jobs. A compelling title and thumbnail get people to click on your video in the first place—without them, even the best video will go unseen. However, the video itself is what convinces them to subscribe and come back for more. Think of the title and thumbnail as the invitation to the party, and your video as the party itself. You need both to be successful.
I’m not sure what my “niche” should be. How do I figure it out? A great niche often lies at the intersection of what you’re passionate about, what you’re knowledgeable in, and what an audience is looking for. Start by making a list of topics you could talk about for hours. Then, do some simple research on YouTube to see if there’s an existing community around those topics. Don’t worry about being perfect from day one. Your niche can evolve as you create more content and learn what resonates with your viewers. The most important step is to just begin.
