YouTube SEO: Optimize Your Video to Rank Higher

Whether you are new to video marketing or a seasoned pro, YouTube SEO is crucial for getting your videos noticed. YouTube is the second-largest search engine, second only to Google, and the first largest search engine for video-related content. And just like how you would do SEO (Search Engine Optimization) work for your website, you need to do the same for your YouTube videos.

At Lapse Productions, we specialize in video creation and optimization. In this blog post, we are going to cover the best practices for YouTube SEO that can be applied across all skill levels.

YouTube Ranking Factors

Before diving into best practices, let’s clarify the factors that will help you rank your videos in YouTube SERP (Search Engine Results Page):

  • Views: YouTube counts views based on specific requirements, like watching at least 30 seconds of a video. It’s a common misconception that YouTube “buys” and “sells” views; rather, views are crucial metrics for advertisers.
  • Subscribers, Channel Authority: More subscribers and achieving milestones (like receiving YouTube badges) contribute to higher ranking.
  • Audience Retention, Engagement, Video Quality: These factors gauge how engaging and visually appealing your content is.
  • Relevance: Your videos must fulfill users’ search inquiries.

YouTube SEO Best Practices

  • Do Keyword Research: Use tools like YouTube Search Suggest and Google Trends to find relevant keywords.
A mobile search for the search terms 'video production' on Google.
  • Add Relevant Keywords in the Title: Include the main keyword, following a 60-character limit, and avoid ALL CAPS.
A collapsed YouTube video description box.
  • Optimize the Description: Sound human, add a CTA, relevant keywords, marketing information, #hashtags, and timestamps.
  • Create a Custom Thumbnail: Make it engaging and follow technical requirements like 1280×720 pixels, 16:9 ratio, and less than 2 MB.
  • Use Appropriate Tags and Closed Captions: Be mindful of common misspellings and provide accurate captions.
A series of YouTube tags being used in a video production video.
  • Add Timestamps, Cards, and End Screens: Improve navigation and encourage viewers to watch more.
The YouTube description box for 'How a Video is Made'.
YouTube end screens
  • Categorize Your Video: Group it with similar content.
YouTube category

What To Do After Your Video is Live

Share On Social Channels: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter.

Embed the Video: Increase your SEO on other platforms.

how to choose a video production company

Monitor Performance: Use YouTube Analytics for insights.

YouTube analytics

Create Your Video With LAPSE Productions

Optimizing your YouTube videos for search is an essential part of building your online presence. By understanding the ranking factors and following best practices, you can boost your videos to the top of the search results. Remember, SEO is a continuous process, so keep monitoring and adjusting as needed. If you need assistance, Lapse Productions is here to help. Let’s create your video today!

Let’s Create Your Video Today

If you’re looking for top-notch quality, industry expertise, dependability, and competitive pricing, don’t wait any longer. Contact us now for a quote and let’s get started on your project.

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