What You Should Say in Your First YouTube Video

Summary

In this video, Trena advises new YouTubers to avoid generic greetings and instead hook viewers within seconds by showcasing video value. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling and curiosity to engage the audience. Trena recommends introducing oneself briefly and providing a clear reason for viewers to care about the channel. She stresses delivering valuable content early and ending videos with a call to action, guiding viewers to the next video or offering a free resource. Trena also shares her simple setup, encouraging viewers that they don't need fancy equipment to start creating videos.

Takeaways

• 😀 Avoid starting your videos with 'Hey guys, welcome to my channel,' as it's not engaging for viewers who only care about what they'll gain from watching.
• 📏 You have only 3-5 seconds to make a strong first impression; ensure you hook the viewer with an interesting fact, story, or curiosity.
• 👤 Speak to one person instead of a broad audience, making the viewer feel more personally addressed and engaged.
• 📊 Using a statistic or vivid storytelling at the beginning can be highly effective in capturing viewers' attention.
• 💡 Create the impression that you are experienced, even if it's your first video. Avoid stating it's your first video, as it can live on YouTube for years.
• 📌 After your hook, introduce yourself briefly and explain the value you offer to viewers, keeping this introduction within 5-10 seconds.
• 🚀 Deliver your main content quickly (within the first 30 seconds) to keep viewers engaged, focusing on the value you promised in the title.
• 📋 Organize your content into clear steps, sections, or tips to make it easier for viewers to follow and apply the information.
• 🔗 Guide viewers to another video or action at the end of your video instead of signaling that it's over, to keep them engaged with your content.
• 📱 Don't worry about having fancy equipment, editing, or a perfect background. Just start creating content with what you have, even if it's just your phone.

Q & A

Why shouldn't you start your videos with 'Hey guys, welcome to my channel'?

Starting with 'Hey guys, welcome to my channel' is not recommended because it doesn't grab the viewer's attention within the crucial first few seconds. Viewers are primarily concerned with what they will gain from watching the video, and a generic greeting doesn't convey that. It's also important to consider that the viewer might not be a 'guy' and may prefer a more personalized approach.

What is the importance of the first few seconds of a video?

The first few seconds of a video are crucial for making a strong first impression. It's the time when you can either hook the viewer to continue watching or lose them to another video. It's essential to provide value or intrigue immediately to keep the viewer engaged.

How can you make your video more engaging for the viewer from the start?

To make a video engaging from the start, consider using a hook such as a surprising statistic, a vivid story, or the most exciting part of your content. This approach is designed to spark curiosity and make the viewer want to continue watching to learn more.

What is the recommended approach to introducing yourself in a video?

When introducing yourself in a video, it's advised to do so after you've already hooked the viewer with a compelling opening. Keep the introduction brief, tell them your name, and explain why they should care about your channel or content.

Why is it beneficial to speak as if you've been creating videos for years, even if it's your first one?

Speaking as if you've been creating videos for years can make your first video appear more professional. It sets a positive tone for future viewers, even if they discover the video later, as it suggests confidence and expertise.

What is the purpose of the intro section in a video?

The intro section is meant to be a short and engaging self-introduction that gives viewers a reason to care about the channel. It should be no more than five to ten seconds and should clearly communicate the value the channel offers.

How can focusing on a niche help with YouTube recommendations?

Focusing on a niche helps YouTube's algorithm understand who your target audience is and what kind of content they are looking for. This makes it easier for YouTube to recommend your videos to the right viewers, increasing the likelihood of engagement and watch time.

What should you aim to deliver within the first 30 seconds of your video?

Within the first 30 seconds, you should aim to deliver the 'meat' or core value of your video. This is the main content that provides value to the viewer and should be presented in a way that is easy to understand and actionable.

Why is it important not to signal the end of your video?

Signaling the end of your video, such as saying 'in conclusion' or 'that's it', can prompt viewers to leave. Instead, guide them towards another video to watch, which increases watch time and keeps them engaged with your content.

What strategy can you use to promote your upcoming videos at the end of your current video?

You can promote upcoming videos by telling viewers what to watch next, even if the video isn't live yet. This creates anticipation and gives viewers a clear call to action to continue watching your content once the next video is published.

What are some things you shouldn't worry about when creating your first video?

When creating your first video, you shouldn't worry about having a perfect strategy, fancy equipment, or perfecting your filming space. The focus should be on getting started and creating content. As you continue to create, you'll naturally improve and can refine your approach based on feedback and analytics.