By Abigail Thorpe
Usually when we think of search engine optimization and building an online presence, our thoughts fly to one entity: Google. And for good reason; it’s been the No. 1 giant for a long time. Just think about it, how many times a day do you say, “I’ll just google it?”
But it’s important—especially for businesses—to remember the other search engines out there taking up millions of hours of customers’ time and generating billions of clicks. One of these in particular stands out from the crowd—and not just because the Despacito music video has been so popular.
YouTube is the second most used search engine of our time, and it’s particularly popular amongst millennials, often serving as the primary go-to for information. It was founded nine years after Google—and then purchased by Google a year later—but now boasts 1.9 billion logged-in monthly users, uploads 400 hours of video every minute, and has 1 billion YouTube watches per day—more than both Netflix and Facebook video combined.
The future (or rather present) might be digital, but the future of digital is video. Videos drive social engagement, they garner views, and they help customers identify with your brand. The result can be a stellar marketing tool—if you’re using it right.
YouTube is big, and there is a ton of content out there, which means yours has to stand out from the crowd. You need to know your audience, utilize good keywords, make your content relatable, optimize SEO and your channel, use hashtags, and choose a good title—among other things. With so much to keep up with (not to mention having to make a click-worthy video), it’s no wonder many companies overlook YouTube, but that’s a mistake.
A search engine that carries so much clout—particularly among the younger generations—and is only growing, is one you need to pay attention to. Video can freshen and boost your brand if done the right way, but it takes work and some insider knowledge. Rocket Fish Digital understands the tricks of the trade. Check out how we can help optimize your brand for YouTube.