Create A Youtube Channel For Your Business: Step-by-Step Guide

Youtube is a powerful tool for marketing, branding, and audience engagement.  

I started my first Youtube channel in 2008 with a group of friends.  We wanted to capture the breakdancing and Hip Hop culture in Los Angeles like ESPN.  With a camera crew and a passion for the culture, we grew our channel quickly to over 250k subscribers.  From that growth, we were able to build a worldwide brand that paid us every month through the Youtube Partner Program, sponsorships, and collaborations.  That experience taught me a lot about the power of Youtube and I want to share with you what I’ve learned over the years to help you build your own channel to grow your brand. 

1. Sign up with a Gmail Account

Start by creating a Gmail account for your business. Once you have one, simply log in and navigate to the top right corner where you'll find access to YouTube.

2. Create a YouTube Channel

  • Click on your Gmail account icon on YouTube's top right.

  • Opt for the 'Create a Channel' button.

  • Upload a profile picture for your channel.

3. Customize Your Channel

  • Go to your channel and click 'Customize Channel'.

  • Add a channel trailer. This gives first-time visitors an overview of what your channel is about. If you haven't uploaded any videos yet, get started by adding a video as your trailer.

  • Ensure your video has a relevant title, description (with hashtags and links), and an eye-catching thumbnail.

  • Organize your videos into playlists. This could be 'How-to' videos, interviews, etc.

  • Ensure your video settings are set accordingly, especially whether your content is meant for kids or not.

  • Incorporate relevant keywords and hashtags in the tag section to boost discoverability.

4. Enhance Viewer Experience

  • Add end screens: Direct viewers to another video, playlist, or ask them to subscribe to your channel. You can design custom end screens using platforms like Canva.

  • Introduce cards: These are little pop-ups (usually in the top right) that can link to other videos or external links.

  • Copyright settings: Ensure your videos don't infringe on copyrights.

  • Decide on your video's visibility: Private, Unlisted, or Public.

5. Focus on Branding

  • Develop a compelling banner: Your banner should reflect your brand's essence. It should succinctly communicate what your channel offers and why viewers should subscribe. Use platforms like Canva for designing professional banners.

  • Watermark your videos: This is a little icon that sits on your videos, reminding users to subscribe.

6. Provide Basic Information

  • Under 'Basic Info', provide a detailed description of your channel, keeping the character limit in mind.

  • Specify your upload schedule, so viewers know when to expect new content.

  • Promote your website or any other social media platforms.

7. The Finishing Touches

  • As your channel grows and reaches 100 subscribers, you can customize your channel's URL.

  • You can add external links that will display on the bottom right of your banner.

Starting a YouTube channel for your business might initially seem daunting, but with these steps, you'll be way ahead of most businesses who haven’t taken the crucial step of establishing an online video presence.  Get started today and discover the power of Youtube!