Are you already creating short-form videos for platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok? Then YouTube Shorts should most definitely be on your radar. And you know what, they can actually assist with your SEO strategy for Google Search too.
“Short-form video is booming. It’s a rich canvas for every type of content people care about: music, gaming, sports, lifestyle, learning, food. People love it so much that according to Talk Shoppe, viewers now report watching more short-form video than studio-produced TV and films.”
Source: Google Ads and Commerce Blog
Since recording videos on smartphones has come around, most businesses have found it hard to create horizontally shot videos for YouTube. However YouTube Shorts, like Reels and TikToks are shot vertically and the platform is specifically for content shot on your smartphone.
Here at GCD we are encouraging our clients and anyone actively working on attracting people from search to their business, to start uploading content to YouTube Shorts because they do show on the search result pages.
Not to mention, YouTube Shorts has over 50 billion views a day – this was mentioned at Google Marketing Live 2023.
The TLDR version of YouTube Shorts:
- You can upload videos from your mobile or desktop
- Maximum of 60 seconds long
- Maximum of 100 character long title
- You can also add a description and Youtube recommends to encourage viewers to interact with your videos by saying something along the lines of: “If you liked the Short, give it a like and comment”
- Make sure to pop the hashtag #shorts in your title as YouTube says that this helps their system recognise it better
- Like Reels and TikTok you can add music, text, etc within the YouTube app when creating/uploading your video
- YouTube Shorts can be monetised too
Easily create Shorts from your existing YouTube content
Yes, you read that right you can create shorts from your existing YouTube content. Simply follow these steps:
- Go to the watch page of your video.
- Tap Remix and then click Edit into a Short to open the Shorts creation experience.
- Select up to 60 seconds of your video then tap Next to add creative touches like text or filters before you upload your Short.
- And you’re done! Too easy!
Can YouTube Shorts really boost my SEO efforts?
Yes, absolutely! YouTube Shorts can significantly boost your SEO strategy. Since YouTube is owned by Google, the world’s largest search engine, creating engaging Shorts can improve your overall online visibility and search rankings. When your Shorts perform well and gain traction, it signals to search algorithms that your content is relevant and valuable, leading to higher search result placements.
What type of content works best for YouTube Shorts?
Various types of content can perform well as Shorts, but some popular categories include quick tutorials, behind-the-scenes clips, mini-product showcases, entertaining skits, and engaging challenges. The key is to keep the content concise, attention-grabbing, and visually appealing to maximise viewer retention and engagement.
Are there any specific best practices for optimising YouTube Shorts?
Yes, there are several best practices you can follow. Add relevant keywords to your video title, description, and tags to improve discoverability. Use eye-catching thumbnails and titles to entice users to click on your Shorts. Additionally, encourage engagement by asking questions or incorporating call-to-actions in your videos.
Can YouTube Shorts help drive traffic to my website or online store?
Absolutely! YouTube Shorts can be a powerful tool to drive traffic to your website or online store. By including a call-to-action in your video or description, you can direct viewers to visit your website for more information, product purchases, or to sign up for your newsletter.
How frequently should I upload YouTube Shorts to see significant results?
Consistency is key. Regularly uploading Shorts can help you build an audience and improve your SEO over time. Aim for at least a few Shorts per week to keep your channel active and relevant. Monitor the performance of your Shorts to adjust your strategy and understand what works best for your audience.
YouTube Shorts can be part of your Google Ads strategy too!
If you are utilising Google Ads as a marketing strategy and you are running Performance Max or Video campaigns then being up with the play when it comes to YouTube Shorts is a must. You can utilise your Shorts content for your ads and since ads were launched on Shorts in 2022, they are increasing the reach your ads can have.
Remember, incorporating YouTube Shorts into your SEO strategy can be an exciting and rewarding way to attract new viewers, increase engagement, and grow your business’s online presence. Happy filming!
