Posting a video on YouTube for views is one thing, but developing long-form content ideas to nurture a thriving community and get people to take action or buy from you requires a different approach. It’s not just about creating tutorials or how-tos answering commonly searched questions; it’s about creating a movement, a space where people feel seen and connected to something bigger.
The approach to YouTube differs widely—some craft content to be the product, while others view it as a catalyst for business growth. The purpose isn’t to be asserting yourself as the ultimate authority, but rather about sharing your unique perspective. It’s not the only way; it’s just your way!
Let’s dive into three fundamental strategies you can use to elevate your YouTube video ideas.
We have to start by figuring out what turns a viewer into a subscriber. Sometimes all someone is looking for from a YouTube video is to fill a knowledge gap, but this is the best time to hook the viewer in and immerse them further in your world so it’s not a “one and gone” view. Sharing personal stories is the key to taking your content from instructional to engaging. Think about it—if you’re watching a video on how to change your tire, what would compel you to subscribe to that channel beyond fixing a one-off problem? It’s all in how you tell a story around the lesson.
Vulnerability is key. It’s not about divulging every detail of your life, but sharing why your content matters to you. Whether it’s your journey in a particular field or how a setback became a stepping stone, connecting on a personal level fosters audience loyalty. When you introduce yourself and share the ‘why’ behind your YouTube channel, your content becomes more relatable and resonant. It’s about more than just your expertise; it’s about the connection and creating a space where your audience feels understood.
Truly listening to your audience is at the heart of creating YouTube videos your viewers want to watch. Pay attention to your incoming queries. Dive into those messages, comments, and even private DMs. Those casual interactions are gold mines for finding great YouTube content ideas.
Start by addressing the foundational questions, allowing you to not only cater to beginners but also pave the way for more advanced content. Create an ongoing dialogue through asking follow-up questions and being receptive to feedback from your subscribers.
A tip Harriet Hadfield shares in episode 226 of Cubicle to CEO is to take what they tell you and answer that question in 1000 different ways. Instead of making one video on ‘how to get clients’, take that video idea and split it up into hyper specific scenarios like: ‘how to get clients in a small town’, ‘how to get clients without a website’, and ‘how to get clients when you have no experience’. Getting more specific with the angle of the question allows you more opportunities to tailor your content to the different types of individuals who are searching for answers to a broader question, increasing the connection and relevance of your videos.
Another way to discover hot topics for you to create content on is by doing a bit of research. Luckily, data and trend analytics have never been so easily accessible. YouTube is the 2nd largest search engine on the internet, so tapping into keyword research on frequently searched content is pivotal to finding good video ideas.
Think back to your own starting point. Consider the questions you once had when you were just beginning to learn about your niche. Do a quick YouTube search on the topic you want to make a video on. Analyze existing videos, noting what they lack, the questions being asked in their comments, and what you could offer differently and uniquely. This part of your content strategy is what will help you create videos that give viewers exactly what they are looking for.
Want some short-form content inspo? Check this out.
Your YouTube content library is more than just a series of videos—it’s an evergreen lead generator for your business. With a catalog of highly searched, top-notch content, you will see consistent traffic to your offers—even if you haven’t posted a new video in months! By using these tips to scope out the best YouTube content ideas for your channel, you’re not just creating videos; you’re building a lasting way to attract, engage, and convert your audience, ensuring that your YouTube presence remains a thriving hub for your business, now and in the future.
Want to hear how Harriet Hadfield used YouTube as her primary lead generator to sell $330K of her programs in 2023? Listen to episode 226 of Cubicle to CEO – available everywhere you listen to podcasts!
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