Why YouTube Shorts SUDDENLY Stop Getting Views

Summary

This video explores the fluctuations in views for YouTube Shorts, addressing common creator frustrations with the platform's algorithm. It explains the 'explore and exploit' phases that Shorts go through, emphasizing the importance of timing and audience engagement. Creators are encouraged to focus on their target audience and tailor content accordingly. Strategies for optimizing posting frequency and viewer retention are shared, alongside a caution against re-uploading videos to avoid potential shadow banning. Ultimately, the key to success lies in creating compelling hooks that capture viewers' attention quickly.

Takeaways

• 😀 YouTube Shorts often experience a pattern of initial surge in views followed by a rapid decline, leading to creator frustrations.
• 🤔 The YouTube algorithm operates in two main phases: 'explore' (testing content on a seed audience) and 'exploit' (wider distribution if engagement is high).
• 📊 A seed audience may not reflect the target audience, particularly for smaller channels, and it takes time to build this audience.
• 🔍 Early views on Shorts are exploratory rather than indicative of long-term success, emphasizing the importance of maximizing views over impressions.
• 🎯 Creators should research their target audience to tailor content, ensuring it resonates with viewers.
• 🕒 Posting one or two Shorts daily can increase the chances of hitting a successful audience and boosting engagement.
• 📈 Utilizing YouTube analytics to find optimal posting times based on audience activity is crucial for maximizing reach.
• ⏳ Success on YouTube Shorts requires patience and persistence, with many creators needing extensive trial and error to identify effective strategies.
• 🚫 Re-uploading content to manipulate algorithm dynamics can lead to penalties, including being flagged as spam or shadow banned.
• ✨ The most critical factor for viewer retention in Shorts is the initial hook; engaging viewers within the first few seconds is essential.

Q & A

What is the main issue creators face with YouTube Shorts views?

Creators often experience an initial surge in views followed by a sudden drop, leading them to question if the YouTube algorithm is against them or if they have been shadow banned.

What is a 'seed audience' in the context of YouTube Shorts?

A seed audience is a small, randomly selected group of viewers that a new Short is tested on to determine whether the content resonates with them.

How does the YouTube algorithm determine which videos to promote?

The algorithm uses a two-phase system: 'Explore' to test the Short with a seed audience and 'Exploit' to promote it more widely if engagement is high.

Why might a seed audience not represent the target audience?

The seed audience is randomly selected to minimize regret and maximize engagement, which may not align with the channel's intended demographic.

What should creators focus on to improve their Shorts performance?

Creators should focus on making engaging content tailored to their target audience, posting frequently, and utilizing YouTube's analytics to optimize posting times.

What is the significance of the first few seconds of a Short?

The first few seconds are crucial for capturing viewer attention; a compelling hook is necessary to prevent viewers from swiping away.

What does the term 'exploit' refer to in the YouTube algorithm?

The 'exploit' phase refers to the algorithm's decision to promote a Short more widely after determining that it has engaged the seed audience effectively.

Why is re-uploading a Short potentially harmful for creators?

Re-uploading can be flagged as spam by YouTube, which may lead to penalties such as being shadow banned.

What kind of analytics should creators pay attention to for their Shorts?

Creators should focus on metrics like viewer retention, swipe-away rates, and when their audience is most active to improve their posting strategies.

What is one actionable tip provided for creators to increase their Shorts' views?

Creators should aim to post one or two Shorts daily to increase their chances of reaching a broader audience and achieving better engagement.