5 Proven Video Ideas to Grow a YouTube Channel from Scratch
If you're looking to grow your YouTube channel, coming up with engaging and effective video ideas can feel overwhelming. The good news? There are proven strategies that successful creators use to build their audiences and get more views. In this post, I’ll share five actionable video ideas that work for creators at any stage of their YouTube journey.
1. Answer Commonly Asked Questions
One of the best ways to attract viewers to your channel is by answering specific questions in your niche. Start by identifying the most common questions people are asking within your area of expertise. Here’s how:
Check YouTube Comments: Explore videos from creators in your niche and read through the comments. Look for questions viewers are asking that you can answer.
Use YouTube Search: Type a partial query into the YouTube search bar, such as "how to [your topic]" and see what autocomplete suggests. This shows you what people are actively searching for.
When creating these videos, keep them as focused and specific as possible. For example, if you create videos about photography, answer questions like “How to take great photos with a smartphone in low light” instead of broader topics like “Photography basics.”
Why it works: YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world, so answering specific questions can help your video rank higher in search results and attract viewers actively looking for solutions.
2. Create Videos on Trending Topics
Another powerful strategy is to tap into trending topics in your niche. Trends often have built-in momentum, and creating timely content around them can draw significant views.
How to Find Trends:
Look for new products, tools, or updates in your field. For instance, if you're in video editing, a tutorial on a newly released editing software or an update to a popular program could resonate with your audience.
Study videos from other small creators whose recent content has outperformed their subscriber count. This can indicate trending interest.
Pro Tip: Include the year in your title (e.g., “Best Video Editing Software for Beginners – 2024”) to highlight timeliness and increase relevance.
Why it works: Trending videos capitalize on the increased search volume and interest around hot topics, helping your content gain traction faster.
3. Create Evergreen "How-To" Content
“How-to” videos are a staple on YouTube because they provide long-term value. This type of content remains relevant for years, continually bringing in views.
When creating a how-to video:
Choose a topic with lasting relevance. For example, “How to set up a home studio on a budget” or “How to create a cinematic look with basic gear.”
Break down the process into clear, actionable steps. A detailed, step-by-step guide will keep viewers engaged and boost your watch time.
Why it works: These videos are not only helpful but also drive long-term engagement. A well-made how-to video can consistently attract viewers and subscribers over time.
4. Share Stories and Lessons Learned
People love stories, especially when they’re authentic and relatable. Sharing your experiences, challenges, and lessons learned in your niche can create a strong connection with your audience.
What to Include:
Challenges You’ve Overcome: For example, share how you overcame obstacles when starting your YouTube journey.
Insights and Growth: Talk about what you’ve learned and how others can apply those lessons.
You don’t have to create a daily vlog to do this. A simple sit-down video where you share your experiences works just as well. Authenticity is key—viewers resonate with real, unfiltered stories.
Why it works: Stories appeal to the human desire for connection. Beginners in your niche will appreciate your insights and look to you for guidance.
5. Highlight Common Mistakes and What Not to Do
Sharing your own mistakes and helping viewers avoid common pitfalls is another effective way to build trust and authority.
Tips for This Type of Video:
Be specific about mistakes and explain why they happened.
Offer actionable advice on how to avoid them. For example, if you’re in filmmaking, you could create a video like “5 Common Mistakes Beginners Make When Shooting Videos” and provide practical solutions.
End on an encouraging note. Help viewers feel confident about moving forward.
Why it works: People want to learn from others’ experiences to avoid the same issues. These videos save viewers time and frustration, making them more likely to subscribe for future content.
Final Thoughts
No matter which type of video you choose to make, remember that authenticity and value are the foundation of any successful YouTube channel. These five proven video ideas—answering questions, leveraging trends, creating evergreen how-to content, sharing stories, and addressing common mistakes—are practical starting points to help you grow your audience and achieve your goals.
