How to Start a YouTube Channel Smartly: 8 Tips for Beginners
When I first started making videos on YouTube, I had no clue what my channel’s strategy would be. I just posted random videos and constantly changed topics. I thought buying better gear would make my videos succeed and look better – but it didn’t. If I could start my channel from scratch today, I would do many things differently.
In this article, I’m sharing eight tips I wish I had known when I started my YouTube channel. The first tips focus on strategy and mindset.
Tip 1: Niche down first, then expand
My mistake was making random videos and hoping something would take off. I thought I could put everything under my name, Craig, and people would like the content even if the videos weren’t related. That was wrong. The strategy didn’t work, and I had to clarify my channel topic.
A saying goes: “Riches are in the niches.” If you focus on a specific audience first, it’s easier to know who you’re making videos for and what your next video should be.
If I were starting a channel today, I would find the intersection of passion, proficiency, and profit:
- Passion: What do I love talking about?
- Proficiency: What am I experienced in and can speak about with authority?
- Profit: What could be monetized if treating YouTube as a business?
Tip 2: Document more than you create
Many beginners feel they must be experts. Instead, be a guide, not a guru. You’re perfectly positioned to help someone who was in your shoes a year or two ago. Document your journey, share lessons, even if you’re not an expert yet.
Tip 3: One video per week, consistently
Inconsistency was my early mistake. Schedule your filming, editing, and upload days. This builds trust with yourself, YouTube, and your audience.
Tip 4: Use the gear you have
Don’t wait for the perfect camera or studio. A modern smartphone with a good camera and microphone is enough. Many creators produce entire videos on their phone.
Tip 5: Focus on titles and thumbnails
I used to focus only on video production. Titles and thumbnails were last. Better strategy: design titles and thumbnails first. They determine who clicks and watches your video.
Tip 6: Don’t obsess over subscribers
Early on, I focused too much on subscriber count. Metrics like click-through rate, watch time, and audience retention actually drive subscriber growth.
Tip 7: Build an email list early
An email list gives direct access to your audience. You can promote products, videos, or courses without relying solely on YouTube.
Tip 8: Treat YouTube as a business
Don’t rely only on AdSense. Diversify revenue streams and educate yourself about business and strategy to sustain long-term growth.
Summary
Focus on niche, documentation, consistency, titles & thumbnails, email list, and business mindset – these are the keys to building a successful YouTube channel.
