How to Increase Watch Time on YouTube: Tips for New Creators

If you're uploading videos on YouTube but your watch hours are not increasing, it could be that people aren't watching your videos long enough. Additionally, watch time hours are updated every two days, so patience is key. However, there can be other factors that contribute to lower watch time, especially if you are a fairly new YouTuber.

Understanding Your Channel's Viewers

When people first visit your channel, the first things they see are your channel title and thumbnail. These elements form their first impression and can greatly influence whether they decide to watch your video. For instance, I once created a video about a life-changing decision that significantly impacted me, but received minimal views. The initial thumbnail I used was taken during a vacation and featured a dark, gloomy setting, which didn't reflect the intended enthusiastic tone of the video.

The original title and thumbnail didn't resonate with viewers, leading to fewer engagements. By rethinking the thumbnail and title, I was able to increase viewer interest. The new title, "Getting a Fresh Perspective on Life," piqued curiosity, prompting viewers to delve into the content and learn more about the change in perspective and its impact on my life.

Mastering Thumbnails and Titles

Remember, people click on videos based on their thumbnails and titles. Ensure they grab your viewers' attention and communicate the essence of your video. The thumbnail should guide their expectations, and the title should intrigue them. For example, using a photo taken during a pivotal moment in your video, like the climax, can help viewers remember why they clicked on the video. This continuity reinforces the narrative and keeps them engaged.

Increase your chances of getting noticed by crafting thumbnails and titles that are both engaging and relevant. Focus on emphasizing the unique and compelling aspects of your video to draw in potential viewers.

Building Engagement Through Storytelling

The actual content of your video is crucial in retaining viewer interest. Structure your video to create a compelling story. A traditional narrative follows an introduction, conflict, and resolution. A well-structured story engages viewers and keeps them invested until the end. For instance, in a video discussing personal growth and decision-making, you can start with a relatable idea, introduce a conflict, and then resolve it in a way that encourages viewers to think deeply about their own lives.

To further engage your audience, consider creating a "hook" or a question that piques their curiosity. Set up the scenario, present a problem, and then provide a surprising solution at the end. This can be a powerful way to keep viewers interested and coming back for more.

Creating Engaging Content

YouTube rewards creators who keep viewers engaged longer, which is why optimizing your content for higher watch time is essential. Here are some tips to help you drive higher engagement:

Start with a Hook: Use questions or intriguing statements to grab viewers' attention immediately. For example, "Do you ever feel like you need a break from your daily routine?" Create Conflict: Introduce a problem that viewers can relate to, and then find a way to resolve it. For instance, talk about how you struggled with balancing your day job and your passion, and how you eventually found the courage to pursue your dream. Provide Additional Value: At certain points in your video, hint at another video that answers a question or offers more insight. For example, "Stay tuned for another video where I explain step-by-step how I overcame my doubts and took the leap into content creation."

By following these steps and continuously refining your content, you can improve your watch time and gain more engagement on YouTube. Remember, the key is to keep your audience invested and coming back for more engaging and valuable content.

Conclusion

Understanding the importance of thumbnails, titles, and content structure can significantly increase your watch time on YouTube. By mastering these elements, you can capture more viewers, keep them engaged, and ultimately grow your channel.

Good luck with your YouTube journey!