Comprising the pulsating heart of YouTube’s algorithm, ‘Watch Time’ dictates a video’s popularity and discoverability. Essentially, the more minutes users spend watching your content, the higher YouTube ranks it. It’s not about the number of views anymore but the duration of those views. So, how can you increase your YouTube watch time? This 500-word blog reveals some smart strategies.
Create Engaging, High-Quality Content
Content is king, even in video form. If the content doesn’t captivate the viewer, they will exit the video. Ensure you are creating content that addresses your audience’s interests, solves their problems, or offers value in the form of entertainment. One tip is to ask for comments and feedback to understand what your audience wants to see more of in future videos.
Optimize Your Video Length
While shorter videos can be watched in full more easily, long-form content can potentially accumulate more minutes of watch time. It’s a delicate balance to strike. As a rule, the ideal video length for most content on YouTube is between 7 and 15 minutes. Of course, this can vary based on the subject matter and the audience’s preferences.
Leverage the Power of Playlists
Playlists are a perfect way to boost watch time because they promote binge-watching. When one video ends, another begins, keeping the viewer on your channel for longer. Group-related content to build thematic playlists and encourage viewers to continue their YouTube watch time.
Hook Viewers with Compelling Intros
You have a few seconds to grasp a viewer’s attention. Therefore, make your intro compelling and intriguing enough to make them want to continue watching. Get to the point quickly and offer clear indications of what value the video will provide.
Add Cards and End Screens
Cards are interactive bubbles you can add to your videos to encourage viewers to take action, from watching another video to subscribing. Meanwhile, end screens appear in the last 5 to 20 seconds of a video and can encourage viewers to check out more of your content or subscribe.
Improve Your Video SEO
Optimizing your videos ensures they are discovered by viewers interested in your content. This includes using relevant keywords in your titles, descriptions, and tags. The more relevant your video is to a viewer’s interests, the longer they are likely to watch.
Encourage Viewer Engagement
Directly engaging with viewers, whether through responding to comments or asking questions in your videos, can increase viewer loyalty and the likelihood of viewers watching until the end. Use call-to-actions (CTAs) that generate discussions, such as “What do you think about this?” or “Let us know your experiences on x topic.”
