Creating a YouTube channel for your business is almost like creating another mini-website. Your channel is where you’ll upload videos and descriptions for viewers to see all in one place. It’s also a landing page for viewers who find your videos elsewhere and decide they want to check out more of your content. So in order to be effective, you’re channel has to be well-built with a purpose.
Around 12% of the internet’s video traffic is on YouTube and the platform has over 2 billion users. It’s the second largest search engine and social network. So when people find your channel, you want to tell them exactly what to do next. Should they subscribe? Follow on social media? Head over to your website? Guiding viewers toward becoming potential customers means fully setting up and optimizing your YouTube channel for your small business. Let’s break down how.
How to Create a YouTube Business Account
1. Start with a Google account.
Sign into an existing account for create a new one dedicated for your small business.
2. Head over to YouTube to set up your channel.
On the YouTube homepage, you’ll click the avatar icon at the top right corner. Click “My channel” from the drop-down options and you’ll be able to edit everything from there.
3. Create a business account.
YouTube will initially prompt you to set up a personal account. But you can click “Use a business or other name” which will direct you to enter your brand’s name.
4. Activate your new YouTube account.
Click “create” and then you’re done! Now your small business officially has a YouTube channel.
Customizing Your YouTube Channel
Like every other social media platform, you’ll want to fully customize your YouTube channel with your business’s branding, images, and message. Update your channel icon (profile picture) and channel art (cover photo) to make sure your YouTube channel fully reflects your small business.
Next, you’ll want to fill out your channel description. Not only is this “about” section a great way for viewers to get more information about your business, but it also helps funnel viewers to your channel in the first place. You’ll want to implement some standard SEO tips while writing your description – and make sure to include links to your other social channels and website, as well.
Next Step: Upload Your First Video
Now that your channel is set up, it’s time to upload your first video! You’ll want to upload a high-quality, professional video and make sure you take the steps to fully optimize it. Follow our SEO tips for YouTube’s recommendation engine and use hashtags to increase your views and get the most out of your video.
After that, you’ll want to make sure you take the time to promote your latest video. Check out our other blog post with tips and subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss an update!