Insights from our YouTube Meetup
Because we had our meetup at an SEO conference this talk we prepared was targeted to the majority of people there, SEO experts, but what's very interesting and you'll notice this when watching the video. Only 2 people out of 50 there, are psoting consistently on YouTube, and I'm sure they were the few non SEO people.
YouTube is in a really good spot right now for experts and people who are building a personal brand, not as the only platform but as part of your omni presence.
Why YouTube is Getting Easier for Small Channels in 2025
One of the most exciting trends we discussed is how YouTube is increasingly promoting smaller channels:
- YouTube's algorithm is now surfacing videos from newer, smaller creators on the homepage
- We're seeing videos with modest view counts (200-300 views) getting recommended
- New channels receive a visibility boost in their first month
- Even established YouTubers are experiencing decreased views compared to previous years
This creates a perfect opportunity for businesses looking to diversify their traffic sources, especially as other platforms like TikTok, SEO, and cold email are becoming more competitive.
The #1 Factor for YouTube Success: Ideas Matter Most
The single most important element for YouTube success isn't production quality or fancy equipment, what most of you have in mind, it's having the right video ideas. Here's how to find them:
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Study successful channels in your niche
- Analyze which videos are performing above average
- Look for "outlier" videos with view counts significantly higher than channel average (we use the free 1of10.com Chrome Extension)
- Look for views to subscriber ratio, how recent they are outliers, ...
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Find fast-growing small channels
- Channels that explode in growth are proof of concept for their topics
- Their first videos often reveal high-demand topics with low competition
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Test multiple topics
- Create 2-3 videos for each potential topic area
- Track performance to identify which resonates best with your audience
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Focus on topics you can consistently create content about (avoiding burnout), your ideal topic:
- What is in demand
- What are you passionate about
- What can you monetize
Converting YouTube Views into Leads
YouTube should be more than just a vanity metrics platform. We outlined a simple but effective funnel:
- Traffic Engine: Create valuable YouTube content that attracts your ideal customers
- Lead Magnet: Offer something valuable for free to convert viewers into email subscribers
- Email Sequence: Nurture these leads with valuable content and offers
- Sales Process: Guide prospects toward your products or services
YouTube content works as evergreen sales assets, videos you create today can continue generating leads for 5-10 years if you play your cards right.
SEO Professionals Have a Head Start
As SEO experts, you already possess many skills that transfer directly to YouTube success:
- Understanding search intent
- Keyword research expertise
- Content optimization knowledge
- Analytics and user behavior analysis
- Competitive research skills
Common Challenges & Solutions
During our Q&A, several important questions came up:
B2B vs. B2C Content Strategy
- B2B content should focus on quality leads rather than maximum views
- Create evergreen, authority-building content that serves as sales assets
- Track conversions rather than just view counts
Personal Brand vs. Company Channel
- Personal brands generally outperform faceless company channels
- People connect with individuals more than logos
- Consider featuring key team members consistently if the CEO isn't available
Content Format Considerations
- Long-form content typically works better for B2B lead generation
- YouTube Shorts have limited B2B conversion value but can test topic interest
- For manufacturing/technical businesses, behind-the-scenes and documentary-style content builds trust
More events?
For those who didn't catch us in Ho Chi Minh City, Mike and I will attend a handful of events around the world today. Italy, Shenzen, India, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and maybe more.
Let us know if yo uhave any questions about the topics we covered, or anything else.
We hit 100 members in our Studio community!
Many are leveling up their YouTube game through our year-round consulting.
Need help with direction, strategy, ideas, accountability, .. for your or your team on YouTube?
At Playstack we help through 24/7 consulting on Slack and weekly Q&A calls to get actual results on YouTube.
Reach out for more details; this is perfect for people starting out or when you already have a team that needs more direction.
Thanks for reading!
Cheers,
Milan
