A few months ago, we set out on a challenge: Could we successfully grow multiple YouTube channels in different niches within 90 days?
We focused on industries ranging from personal finance to fitness and tech reviews. By leveraging data-driven strategies, AI-powered content creation, and targeted promotions, we saw remarkable results.
For example, one of our channels in the health and wellness space skyrocketed from 500 to over 20,000 subscribers in just three months by consistently posting engaging Shorts and long-form tutorials. Another channel in the tech niche went from struggling with visibility to gaining 100,000+ views per video through smart keyword optimization and compelling thumbnails.
The secret?
A well-structured content strategy, audience engagement, and an optimized posting schedule that leveraged both Shorts and long-form videos. Through this challenge, we uncovered replicable methods that any creator—whether new or experienced—can use to scale their YouTube channel efficiently.
In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know—step by step. Let’s dive in.
What factors impact the success of your YouTube channel growth?
In addition to creating a successful promotional strategy, these three key factors determine whether your YouTube videos get seen, watched, and engaged with:
1 – Number of Clicks:
Your video’s thumbnail is the first thing viewers see. A custom, eye-catching thumbnail can significantly increase your click-through rate (CTR). But what is a good CTR?
A good CTR on YouTube typically falls between 4-10%, though this varies by niche. Higher CTR means more people are clicking on your video when they see it in search results or recommendations, which signals to YouTube that your content is engaging.
Best Practices for Improving YouTube CTR:
- Design Eye-Catching Thumbnails: Use bold colors, clear images, and readable text. Avoid clutter and ensure thumbnails stand out.
- Write Compelling Titles: Your title should create curiosity and urgency while including your target keyword. Example: “5 YouTube Growth Secrets You’re Missing!”
- A/B Test Thumbnails and Titles: Experiment with different variations and track performance in YouTube Analytics.
- Use Emotional Triggers: Words like “secret,” “mistakes,” “how-to,” and numbers (e.g., “7 Best Tips”) tend to attract more clicks.
- Optimize for Mobile Viewers: Since many users browse YouTube on their phones, ensure your thumbnail and title are clear even on small screens.
Improving your CTR increases video visibility, driving more views and engagement to your channel.
2 – Retention:
The first 15 seconds are critical. If you can hook viewers quickly, they’re more likely to watch at least 50% of your video, improving your rankings. Here are some high-converting hooks that work well on YouTube:
- “You won’t believe what happened when I tried this…” – This creates curiosity and makes viewers eager to see the outcome.
- “Most people get this completely wrong about [topic]… Are you making the same mistake?” – This challenges the audience, making them want to watch and learn.
- “The biggest secret nobody is telling you about [topic]…” – Taps into exclusivity and intrigue.
- “I tested the top 5 [product/methods]—here’s what actually works.” – Positioning as a tested, results-based review keeps viewers engaged.
- “Stop doing THIS if you want to [desired result]!” – Sparks urgency and provides value immediately.
Using one of these hooks can dramatically improve retention and ensure your audience sticks around for the full video.
3 – Engagement:
Likes, shares, and comments tell YouTube that people enjoy your content, increasing the likelihood that your videos will be recommended to a wider audience.
Benchmarks for Strong Engagement:
- Like-to-View Ratio: Aim for at least 4-6% of viewers to like your video.
- Comment Rate: A high-performing video typically has 0.5-1% of viewers leaving a comment.
- Share Rate: Viral videos often see 1-3% of viewers sharing the content.
Best Practices to Improve Engagement:
- Use In-Video Prompts: Ask viewers a direct question or challenge them to comment. Example: “What’s your biggest struggle with YouTube growth? Comment below!”
- Pinned Comments & Replies: Pin a comment with a follow-up question to encourage discussion and personally reply to as many comments as possible.
- Leverage End Screens & Cards: Direct viewers to more content, keeping them engaged on your channel longer.
- Run Polls & Community Posts: Use YouTube’s community tab to keep subscribers engaged between video uploads.
- Encourage User-Generated Content: Ask viewers to tag you in their own content or submit questions for future videos.
The more engagement your videos receive, the better YouTube will rank them in search results and recommendations, ultimately helping you grow faster.
YouTube Channel Profile Setup Best Practices
Think of your YouTube channel as your digital storefront. When people visit, they should instantly understand who you are, what value you provide, and why they should subscribe.
A well-organized, professional-looking channel makes a strong first impression and helps you rank higher in search results.
Here are some ways to improve your setup:
Use a Compelling Header: Your channel banner should instantly capture attention and clearly communicate your brand and niche. Here are a few examples of compelling headers:
“Master Digital Marketing | Weekly Growth Strategies”
“Fitness for Busy Entrepreneurs | Get in Shape Fast”
“Unlock Passive Income | Expert Tips & Tutorials”
“Mastering Productivity | Hacks for a More Efficient Life”
“Tech Reviews & Tutorials | Stay Ahead of the Curve”
Your banner should be visually engaging and aligned with your brand identity to attract and retain viewers.
Write a Keyword-Rich Channel Description: Make the first sentence SEO-friendly to improve discoverability. vidIQ is our favorite tool to help analyze trending keywords and optimize your description for search rankings. vidIQ has insights on keyword competition, search volume, and video performance, helping you fine-tune your content strategy for maximum visibility.
Optimize Your Profile Photo: A high-quality headshot performs better than a logo because it adds a personal touch and builds trust with your audience.
In our experience, we see better results with channels that use faces more than logos for a profile photo. However, if you prefer not to show your face on social media, consider creating a professional-looking avatar using AI tools like DALL·E or Canva. This way, you maintain a personal connection with your audience while keeping your privacy intact.
Create an About tab with the description of your videos. Here you can identify who you are making the video for and what types of video you create to attract the right audience. You can also add how often you publish the videos so that your viewers can come back to watch.
Create a lead magnet like a downloadable guide you can use as a Call to Action for your YouTube videos.
Make a description video for your channel trailer. It helps the viewers get to know more about you. The purpose of your trailer video is to pique viewers’ interest and encourage them to subscribe. Add a “subscribe now” call to action no later than 120 seconds into the trailer.
Pro Tip: In YouTube Studio, go to Settings => Channel and insert all of the keywords you want your channel to rank for. This will help with the overall discoverability.
Organizing Channel and Channel Page (Playlist and Sections)
Utilizing sections and organizing YouTube videos into playlists ensures that your content is not buried on your channel.
Plan these strategically to create a strong organization and drive engagement. YouTube allows up to 10 Custom Sections for your channel organization. The following is the recommended organization order:
The benefit of the Playlist is that they automatically play the next video for the viewers. This means that you keep the viewers on your channel longer.
Keyword Research for Your Channel
In addition to the factors that will impact the growth of your YouTube channel, you also need to create a keyword strategy.
Keywords are critically important.
Do your research to find the right ones to rank for and create a content strategy around them. Strategically integrate keywords into your video scripts, descriptions, tags, and more.
Here are the levels of keywords that will help you grow YouTube channel subscribers:
- Level 1 (High-level keyword): e.g., Meditation; Clairvoyance; Healing.
- Level 2 (Next level of detail, based on popular searches on YouTube): Meditation for Sleep, Meditation to Relax Mind and Body, Meditation for Positive Energy, Meditation for Anxiety.
- Level 3 (Long-tail keywords): 3 Meditation for Anxiety Techniques You Can Try Anywhere.
Create a mix of videos that focus on different keyword levels.
It is important to focus on keyword quality rather than quantity. Avoid “stuffing” keywords into your content if they do not fit naturally.
Use Google Search and VidIQ to find more popular keywords for your YouTube videos. Utilize a mix of keywords for creating your content plan.
It is important to look at your keywords’ quality rather than the quantity. Do not “stuff” keywords into your content if they do not fit there logically.
YouTube puts a lot of stress on the keywords in the titles, thumbnails, and snippets. They drive 80% of the viewer clicks. This is why the Thumbnail must be simple and eye-catching. You can use thumbnail templates to create custom thumbnails that look different from the rest of the competition.
To keep your content organized start by creating 10-20 video titles with different keywords at various keyword levels.
Thumbnail Best Practices
Then draft similar but different ideas for your Custom Thumbnails.
Your video title has to help with the clicks and viewer retention.
Best practice: start with the script for Thumbnails and Titles before starting the actual script for the video.
The title must have a “Hook” to build curiosity and be emotionally compelling. Preferably use your main keyword at the beginning. Ensure that the hook is related to the title and the Thumbnail, and the title complements the video and does NOT repeat the video title.
Do not create the Thumbnail in full screen – it must be done in the specific thumbnail size (280×720).
How to Find Viral YouTube Video Ideas Using AI
Creating high-performing YouTube videos starts with choosing the right topics—those with the highest chance of going viral. AI-powered tools can streamline this process by analyzing trends, audience behavior, and competitor performance.
Here’s how you can find viral video ideas using AI:
1: Use AI to Identify Trending Topics
- Google Trends & YouTube Search: Track rising topics and seasonal trends in your niche. You can use Perplexity Deep Research functionality to find the top videos and trends.
- VidIQ & TubeBuddy: These tools analyze top-performing videos, revealing what’s gaining traction.
- ChatGPT & AI Research Tools: Ask AI for trending questions or content gaps in your industry.
2: Reverse Engineer High-Performing Content
- Find Top Videos in Your Niche: Search for videos with high engagement and views.
- Download Transcripts: Use YouTube’s auto-transcription feature to analyze key talking points.
- Break Down the Structure: Identify recurring patterns—hooks, pacing, and content length.
3: Generate Unique Video Ideas with AI
- AI-Powered Idea Generation: Use tools like ChatGPT to brainstorm fresh angles on viral topics
- Content Remixing: Ask AI to combine successful elements from different viral videos you researched in the previous steps and your angles to create a new script.
- Title & Thumbnail Optimization: AI tools like Headline Analyzer can suggest click-worthy titles.
How to Write a Successful YouTube Script and Show
There is a specific formula that you can follow with your YouTube script.
Do not be boring. Content must visually engage, so, change camera angles, add b-roll, simple visual effects – aka fun/funny visual & audio “interruptions” related to the story.
Cut out the “fluff” and get straight to the point. Studies show that if you really “hooked” the person within the first 15 seconds, then you hooked them for good. If not, most people will drop off within the first 30 seconds.
Weave in a story into the main content, especially if it highlights your expertise or experience or a case study.
YouTube Video Script Prompt for AI (ChatGPT, Claude, Jasper, etc.)
*”Create a high-energy, engaging YouTube video script that hooks viewers in the first 15 seconds and keeps them watching until the end. The video must be visually dynamic with multiple camera angles, B-roll footage, and fun visual/audio effects (e.g., pop-up text, sound effects, memes). The tone should be conversational, engaging, and high-energy, similar to the top-performing videos in [your niche].
Follow this format:*
1️⃣ Hook (0-15 seconds):
- Start with a bold statement, shocking fact, or intriguing question. Example:
- ‘99% of people FAIL at [topic]—are YOU making this mistake?’
- ‘STOP doing this ONE thing if you want to [achieve goal]!’
- ‘I tried [popular method] for 7 days—here’s what happened…’
2️⃣ Introduction (15-30 seconds):
- Introduce yourself quickly but in a way that builds credibility.
- Set up what viewers will gain by watching (clear value proposition).
- Example: ‘If you’re trying to [achieve goal] but keep struggling, then this video is for you. I’m [your name], and I’ve spent the last [timeframe] figuring out how to fix this.’
3️⃣ Main Content (30 seconds – X minutes):
- Break content into 3-5 clear sections (use list format, comparisons, before/after results).
- Every 30-60 seconds, add a visual change (B-roll, zoom-in, image overlay, animated text).
- Sprinkle in engagement hooks: ‘Which one of these tips is your favorite? Comment below!’
4️⃣ Engagement Triggers:
- At least 2 moments where viewers are asked to LIKE, COMMENT, or SUBSCRIBE:
- ‘Comment “YES” if this helped you!’
- ‘If you want more tips like this, hit that Subscribe button!’
5️⃣ Call to Action (Final 15-30 seconds):
- Drop a lead magnet: ‘Click the link below to download [free template/checklist].’
- Suggest the next video: ‘If you liked this, you’ll LOVE this video [point to screen]!’
Say your main keywords in the video a few times. Google and YouTube can now listen to your videos, even without a transcript.
Remember – you want to get comments for a better ranking. Therefore, ask people multiple-choice questions or invite them to comment.
Drop lead magnets within 2 minutes. Invite fans to download it. Do say, “Click the link below to download the specific template, gift, etc”.
Invite people to Like, Comment, Share, Subscribe by asking an open-ended question: “which of these strategies are YOU going to use today? Comment below” OR “If you watch this video about x, you will benefit from my video about y that is coming next”.
Pro Tip: There are two main problems with scripts (over scripting and under scripting): Best scripts include detailed outlines, key points to highlight, video/audio cues to consider, and all of the hooks. If you are talking in your video, then scripting every word and using a teleprompter may make you sound unnatural and awkward.
Prepping your YouTube videos for Editing
The real secret to a great YouTube video is great editing. This will help if you want to know how to get more views on YouTube. Typically, we recommend keeping the camera running even if you mess up. Just stop and say the same thing again (do not start from the beginning).
In our experience, raw footage for a video is typically 1.5-2 times longer than the final video. The simple editing process can:
Cut out all of the mistakes in the video. For extra fun, you can include “bloopers” at the end of your main video.
Integrate the visual and audio “interruptions”, graphics and b-roll. This breaks the monotony of the “talking head” video and turns a boring topic into a lighter/more entertaining one (i.e., increasing the total watch time that YouTube loves so much). Avoid overusing fancy graphics. Keep these natural and consistent with your style/topic.
Add more engagement “hooks” (different introductions, topic cards, key points, end screens, Calls To Action)
Add Logo overlays throughout the video for branding.
YouTube Content Upload and Optimization
Now that you found the right keywords and created the perfect YouTube video, it is time to optimize your content.
The file itself must be optimized (i.e. change the file name to match the title of your video, add comments to the source file and description of your video via “get info” of the video file and tags).
Add a 200–300-word description to your video. Make sure that the first 1-2 sentences include your target keywords, reiterate the video’s title, and be emotionally compelling to increase keyword saturation.
Add a lead magnet towards the top with the next steps for the viewers to take. Be specific.
Include hashtags and keyword-rich tags. Always use your main keyword as the first tag for the video. Also add a main keyphrase you want your video to rank for
Always add an end screen and optimize it for subscribers. Place it in the last 20 seconds. You can add an end screen through Create Studio and use a big SUBSCRIBE button on your end screen.
Add 2 – 3 Cards with relevant materials. For example, highlight other videos on relevant topics.
Our best practice is to use shorts to drive traffic to the relevant long-form videos.
Transcribe videos and add subtitles. Studies show that many viewers watch videos with sound off. Subtitles and transcripts help increase the viewership
Add annotations to the videos inviting people to “like, comment, subscribe” throughout the video.
Reply to all comments within 24-48 hours of videos going live.
Video tags are not as important as keywords, but you should still use them. Keep your videos private, NOT unlisted until they are optimized and ready to publish.
Focus on “Watch” or “Session” time (different from audience retention watch time) – it is the time spent by the user on the platform overall. Strategically include the logically relevant “Next video” in your end screen to keep people watching more than one video on your channel.
How to Use YouTube Shorts to Explode Your Growth
YouTube Shorts is one of the fastest ways to increase reach and engagement on your channel. Shorts work because they are designed for quick consumption, making them highly shareable and addictive. The algorithm prioritizes Shorts in the feed, allowing even small channels to gain massive exposure quickly.
Why Shorts Work:
- High Discoverability: Shorts are pushed to a wide audience, even those who aren’t subscribed to your channel.
- Quick Engagement: Viewers often watch multiple Shorts in one session, increasing total watch time.
- Boosts Long-Form Content: Shorts can act as teasers that drive traffic to your longer videos.
How to Script a Great YouTube Short (25-30 Seconds Max):
- Hook in the First 3 Seconds – Start with a bold statement or surprising fact. Example: “99% of people do THIS wrong when trying to grow on YouTube!”
- Deliver Quick Value – Provide one actionable tip or insight without fluff. Keep sentences short and impactful.
- Include Fast-Paced Editing – Use quick cuts, text overlays, and dynamic visuals to keep attention.
- Call to Action at the End – Encourage viewers to watch a related long-form video or subscribe. Example: “Want the full strategy? Check out my latest video in the pinned comment!”
Shorts are a must-have in your YouTube growth strategy. Consistently posting engaging Shorts can rapidly increase your subscriber count and overall channel performance.
How to Create a Posting Calendar for Maximum Growth
A consistent posting schedule helps train both your audience and the YouTube algorithm to anticipate your content. The best strategy combines both Shorts and long-form videos to maximize exposure and engagement. Here’s a recommended posting schedule:
- YouTube Shorts: Post one Short per day to keep your channel active and increase daily discoverability.
- Long-Form Videos: Upload one in-depth video per week to provide deep value and keep your subscribers engaged.
Why This Strategy Works:
- Daily Shorts Keep You Relevant: Shorts help push your content to new audiences, increase watch time, and encourage new subscriptions.
- Weekly Long-Form Videos Build Authority: These videos allow you to dive deeper into topics, improving retention and credibility.
- The Algorithm Loves Consistency: A predictable posting schedule signals to YouTube that your channel is active, increasing your chances of getting recommended.
Plan your content in advance and batch-create videos to maintain consistency. Tools like Trello, Notion, or Google Calendar can help you organize your posting schedule and stay on track.
How to Create a Successful YouTube Promo Strategy?
What happens in the first 24-48 hours after publishing your video will determine its overall success in growing your YouTube channel. This time frame is when YouTube evaluates audience engagement and decides whether to push your content to a broader audience. Here are specific actions you should take to maximize reach:
- Announce on All Social Media Platforms: Share your video link on Instagram Stories, LinkedIn, Twitter, Reddit, and Facebook Groups related to your niche. Engage with users in comments and communities to drive external traffic.
- Leverage Your Email List: Send a well-crafted email to your subscribers, summarizing the video’s key points and encouraging them to watch and engage.
- Create 30-60 Second Teasers: Share short clips on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts with a strong CTA: “Watch the full video on YouTube!”
- Pin a Comment with a Call to Action: Encourage discussion by pinning a comment under your video. Example: “What’s your biggest struggle with [topic]? Drop a comment below!”
- Run Facebook & Instagram Ads: A small budget for targeted ads can push your video to a new audience interested in your content.
- Schedule a Premiere: Premiering your video builds anticipation, and real-time interaction boosts engagement.
Cross-Promotion Tactics for Ongoing Growth
- Embed Your Video in Blog Posts: Write a supporting blog post related to your video and embed it to drive traffic from search engines.
- Add a Trailer to Blogs & Social Media: Use teaser clips in blog posts and PR campaigns to generate buzz.
- Use Playlists to Boost Watch Time: Link related videos within your descriptions and end screens to encourage binge-watching.
- Collaborate with Other YouTubers: Partner with creators in your niche for shoutouts, guest appearances, or co-created content.
- Engage on Reddit & Quora: Answer questions related to your video topic and include your video link where relevant.
Analyzing Your Promotion Efforts
Use YouTube Creator Studio Traffic Sources & Audience Retention Report to analyze where your traffic is coming from and identify drop-off points. Modify future scripts to add stronger engagement hooks at moments where users tend to exit.
Final Thoughts: Ready to Grow Your YouTube Channel?
Scaling your YouTube channel doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By optimizing your setup, refining your content strategy, and leveraging AI-powered tools, you can turn views into loyal subscribers.
Want expert guidance? Schedule a free content audit session with me to refine your YouTube growth strategy and start seeing real results today!
