Welcome to the dynamic world of YouTube marketing! Today, we're diving into a crucial aspect often overlooked by many marketers – keyword research for YouTube. Understanding and implementing effective keyword research is essential for reaching more customers through video content.
YouTube isn't just a video-sharing platform; it's a massive search engine with over two billion users. Despite this, many digital marketers haven't fully embraced the power of keyword research for YouTube, missing out on a significant opportunity to rank and reach a vast audience. Let's break down the keyword strategies and tools that can unlock YouTube SEO success.
Leveraging Long Tail Keywords for YouTube Videos
Identifying the perfect long tail keywords is one of the most important steps for optimizing your videos to rank well in YouTube searches (and Google searches). For those familiar with blogging, this approach will resonate. It involves using your preferred keyword tool (such as Ahrefs YouTube Keyword Tool or Google Keyword Planner) to uncover unique, long tail keywords suitable for your video content.
Real-Life Application
Let's take an example: crafting a video about the "best chocolate chip cookie recipe ever." A generic title like "How to Make Chocolate Chip Cookies" is too broad and highly competitive. Instead, delve into your keyword tool with the phrase "chocolate chip cookies." This exploration reveals more descriptive, niche keywords like "easy," "chewy," "soft," or "double" chocolate chip cookies, adding specificity and appeal to your title.
Seasonal Trends
Another valuable strategy is focusing on seasonal trends. For instance, chocolate chip cookie recipes are more popular in December. Knowing this, planning and titling your content, such as "Softest Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe - Updated December 2023," can make your video timelier and more appealing for potential users.
Conduct YouTube-Specific Research
Remember, you’re looking to create content that ranks in YouTube searches, not just organic Google searches. That means you need to take a closer look at what’s ranking through YouTube’s search algorithm.
Utilizing YouTube's Recommended Search Phrases
YouTube's own search bar suggestions are a goldmine for keyword ideas. These recommended phrases indicate what viewers are actively searching for and can guide you in titling your videos effectively.
TubeBuddy: A Game-Changer
TubeBuddy, a powerful analytics tool built specifically for YouTube creators, can take your keyword research to the next level. By searching your chosen phrase in TubeBuddy, you will gain insights into keyword competitiveness, usage frequency, and even the average subscriber counts of channels using that keyword. This information is invaluable for making decisions about whether to compete for a keyword or refine your focus for better chances of ranking.
Research, Create, & Iterate with a Trusted Marketing Partner
The essence of YouTube keyword research is a blend of meticulous research and creative experimentation. Remember, success may not come immediately. It's about trying, learning, and refining your approach. By implementing these strategies and leveraging popular keyword tools, you're not just making compelling video ads – you're crafting targeted, search-optimized content that resonates with your audience and stands out in the YouTube search engine.
If you’re looking for an experienced partner who knows a thing or two about creating engaging videos that convert and incorporating them into integrated digital marketing campaigns, the creative teams at Digital Brew and Roger West are here to produce results that make an impact for your business. Let’s talk!
Diane Callihan
With more than 20 years of experience writing for some of the country’s top brands, Diane helped to shape Roger West’s content strategy, lead generation, and PR efforts as Director of Marketing. She currently serves as President of Callihan Content Creation.