Starting from Zero on YouTube: My Story and What I’d Do Differently

Starting a YouTube Channel? Do These 5 Things First!

When I was in grad school, a single conversation changed my life forever. My friend Maureen visited me, and during her stay, she suggested I start a YouTube channel. I laughed at the idea and told her she must be joking. But Maureen wasn’t kidding. Before leaving, she gave me an ultimatum: "Don’t call me again if you don’t start a YouTube channel."

Those words stuck with me, and guess what? I actually started one! That bold move took me on a journey that shaped the trajectory of my career and life. In today’s blog, I’m sharing what I’d do differently if I were starting a YouTube channel today. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to improve your channel, these tips will help you achieve success faster and with fewer mistakes.

Hey there, future YouTuber! Starting a YouTube channel is an exciting adventure, but it can be overwhelming at first. To help you get started on the right foot, here are five essential steps you should take before you upload your first video.

1. Define Your Niche

Identify Your Passion: Choose a topic or theme that you’re genuinely passionate about. Whether it’s gaming, cooking, fashion, or tech reviews, your enthusiasm will shine through and attract like-minded viewers.
Research: Spend some time exploring YouTube to see what other creators in your niche are doing. Identify gaps in the content that you can fill with your unique perspective.

2. Set Up Your Channel

Channel Name: Pick a memorable and descriptive name that reflects your content. Make sure it’s easy to spell and search for.
Branding: Create a professional-looking profile picture and banner. Use tools like Canva to design eye-catching graphics that represent your brand.
Channel Description: Write a compelling channel description that tells viewers who you are, what your channel is about, and why they should subscribe.

3. Plan Your Content

Content Calendar: Consistency is key to growing your audience. Plan your videos in advance and stick to a regular upload schedule.
Content Ideas: Brainstorm a list of video topics that you’re excited about. Think about what your audience will find valuable or entertaining.
Scripts and Storyboards: Outline your videos to ensure they have a clear structure and flow. This helps you stay on track and deliver your message effectively.

4. Create High-Quality Videos

Equipment: You don’t need the most expensive gear to start. A smartphone with a good camera, decent lighting, and clear audio will do the trick.
Filming: Find a quiet space with good lighting. Experiment with different camera angles and setups to find what works best for you.
Editing: Use free editing software like FilmoraGo or iMovie to polish your videos. Add transitions, text, and music to make your videos engaging and professional.

5. Optimize Your Channel

SEO: Use keyword-rich titles, descriptions, and tags to help your videos get discovered. Tools like TubeBuddy or VidIQ can help you find the best keywords for your content.
Thumbnails: Design eye-catching thumbnails that accurately represent your video content. Thumbnails are crucial for attracting clicks.
Engagement: Encourage viewers to like, comment, and subscribe. Engage with your audience by responding to comments and asking for feedback.

Starting your YouTube journey can be thrilling, and I'm here to help you every step of the way. To support you further, I’m offering a free YouTube training that covers everything from setting up your channel to creating engaging content and optimizing your videos for better reach.

If you’re looking for personalized guidance, consider booking a one-on-one coaching session with me. Together, we can develop tailored strategies to grow your channel and monetize it effectively. Imagine turning your passion into a thriving business—it’s totally achievable!

Here’s how you can get started:

Free YouTube Training: Click here to access
One-on-One Coaching: Book your session here

Remember, every successful YouTuber started right where you are now. Embrace the journey, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Happy creating and good luck on your YouTube adventure! 🌟

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need further support. I’m here to help you shine!

Ready to take the leap? Reserve your spot in the free training here or explore my coaching services to kickstart your journey today!

Do you need grants, feel free to check out my youtube channel: https://youtu.be/klaAGnl0WH8?si=PC7lItxCVedccIml

Thanks for taking time to read my blog. Let me know what you’ll like to read next.

Your Youtube Coach

Mariam Adepoju, MBA