Reaching 100 subscribers on YouTube may not seem like a monumental achievement in the grand scheme of things, but it's a crucial milestone for aspiring content creators. It's a sign of progress, a testament to dedication, and a promise of more significant milestones to come.

In this blog post, we'll delve deeper into the journey to 100 subscribers on YouTube and explore three valuable lessons I learned along the way. These lessons not only helped me achieve that magical 100-subscriber mark but also set the stage for long-term success on the platform and my business.

I also made a YouTube video on the Topic to compliment this blog post which I highly recommend you do that ocassionally as well.

Lesson 1: How Past Videos Work Like Compounding Interest

When starting on YouTube, it's easy to get caught up in the performance of your latest video. You may refresh your analytics page multiple times daily, eagerly awaiting the view count to climb. While this level of excitement and anticipation is entirely understandable, what many budding YouTubers overlook is the enduring value of their older videos.

Imagine your older videos as investments that continue to pay off over time. They work similarly to compounding interest in a bank account. These videos may have fewer views initially, but they continue to attract new viewers and subscribers long after you've uploaded them. This phenomenon is partly due to YouTube's recommendation algorithm, which surfaces videos based on user interactions and search queries.

Imagine your older videos as investments that continue to pay off over time.

The key to leveraging this principle is to pay attention to your past content. Keep in mind these essential strategies:

1. Optimize Your Video Descriptions, Titles, and Tags: Make sure your past videos are discoverable by using relevant keywords in your video titles or, at the least, make them as catchy as possible. Also, include relevant keywords in the descriptions and tags. This ensures that your content remains relevant and continues to attract new viewers.
2. Create Playlists: Group related videos into playlists to encourage viewers to watch more of your content. This not only keeps viewers engaged but also exposes them to your older videos.
3. Promote Your Older Content: Be bold about sharing your older videos on social media and within new videos. A well-timed mention or recommendation can drive curious viewers to explore your back catalog.

Lesson 2: The Importance of Not Relying Too Much on the YouTube Algorithm

The YouTube algorithm is undoubtedly a powerful tool for content discovery. It can help surface your videos to a broader audience, but relying solely on it can be a risky approach. What I've learned is that proactive measures, such as collaborations and networking, are essential for building your audience and gaining exposure.

Here are some reasons why you shouldn't rely solely on the algorithm:

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1. Algorithm Variability: The YouTube algorithm is constantly evolving. What works today may not work tomorrow. Changes in the algorithm can impact your video's reach and visibility.
2. Competition: There is fierce competition on YouTube in nearly every niche. More than just depending on the algorithm to make your content stand out is required.
3. Audience Engagement: The algorithm rewards videos with higher audience engagement, such as likes, comments, and shares. By proactively engaging with your audience through collaborations and networking, you can encourage these interactions.

Collaborations and networking play a significant role in building your audience and exposure. Here's what you can do:

By taking these proactive steps, you reduce your reliance on the ever-changing YouTube algorithm and take more control over your channel's growth.

Lesson 3: How to Use YouTube to Bring Traffic to Your Website

Not to sound like Captain Obvious, but please rememberYouTube isn't just a platform for sharing videos; it can also be a powerful traffic source for your website or online business. Once you've established a presence on YouTube, you can strategically leverage it to drive traffic and convert viewers into customers.

1. Include Website Links in Descriptions: In the description box of your videos, include links to relevant pages on your website. Encourage viewers to explore more on your website for additional resources or products related to your video's content.
2. Utilize Cards and End Screens: YouTube provides features like cards and end screens that allow you to add clickable links to your videos. You can use these to direct viewers to specific pages on your website where they can find more information or make a purchase.
3. Create Content Focused on Your Niche: Your YouTube content should align with the interests and needs of your target audience. This encourages viewers to visit your website for further in-depth content, products, or services.
4. Promote Special Offers or Discounts: Occasionally, offer exclusive promotions or discounts to your YouTube audience. Make it clear that these offers are available on your website, enticing viewers to visit for savings.
5. Consistent Branding: Maintain consistent branding across your YouTube channel and website. This helps create a seamless transition for viewers moving from one platform to another. This is more of a suggestion depending of your brand.

In conclusion, YouTube is a versatile platform that can serve as a launchpad for your online presence. By understanding the lasting impact of past videos, the importance of diversifying your audience-building strategies, and the potential for driving traffic to your website, you can make the most of your YouTube journey beyond the 100-subscriber milestone.

By implementing these strategies and continuing to create valuable content, you'll be well on your way to achieving even greater success on YouTube and beyond. Remember, every milestone, no matter how small, is a step forward toward achieving your goals as a content creator.