How to Get Sponsored on YouTube

Summary

A 16-year-old YouTuber with 30,000 subscribers shares tips for getting sponsorships and making money on YouTube. They explain how to build an email list by networking and reaching out to potential sponsors. When emails respond, negotiate rates based on average views then send contracts. Create sponsored videos as negotiated - usually ad reads shouting out products or dedicated videos organically showcasing them. Review details, get paid, but research companies first to avoid promoting questionable businesses. Taking sponsorships allows monetizing hard work while growing an audience.

Takeaways

• 🚀 You need a sizable audience on YouTube for brands to consider sponsorship, with a starting point of around 1,000 subscribers.
• 📧 If brands don't reach out first, proactively contact them by gathering email addresses from LinkedIn, company websites, or through networking with other YouTubers.
• 🤝 Networking with fellow content creators is highly effective for exchanging contact information of potential sponsors.
• ✉️ Initial outreach emails should be short, customized for each company, and avoid revealing your rates too soon.
• 💼 Sponsorships on YouTube typically come in two forms: ad reads (short product mentions) and dedicated videos (entire video focused on a product or service).
• 💡 For setting rates, calculate the average views on your videos and multiply by 20-30 for ad reads, or 3-5 for dedicated videos.
• 📊 Be wary of deals that only offer payment through affiliate links, especially when starting small, as these are often not profitable.
• 🔄 Engage in negotiations by asking companies for their rates first to potentially secure a better deal.
• 📝 Always review contracts thoroughly before signing, and don’t hesitate to request one if not initially provided.
• 💸 After completing the sponsored content and getting approval, send your payment information to receive compensation.
• 📉 Expect some drop in viewer retention during sponsored segments, but don't let it deter you from accepting sponsorships.
• 🔍 Research potential sponsors carefully to avoid associating your channel with disreputable or unethical companies.
• 🏆 Don't view accepting sponsorships as selling out; it's a legitimate way to earn from your hard work and dedication on YouTube.

Q & A

At what subscriber milestone did the YouTuber get their first sponsor?

The YouTuber got their first sponsor at 1,000 subscribers.

What two main types of sponsor integrations exist on YouTube?

The two main types of sponsor integrations on YouTube are: 1) Ad reads - short 30-90 second shoutouts to a product or company, and 2) Dedicated videos - longer videos focused entirely on showing and explaining a product or service.

Why does the YouTuber recommend asking potential sponsors for their rates first?

The YouTuber recommends asking sponsors for their rates first so that if the rates they provide are higher than what you expected, you have earned yourself some extra money.

What is an affiliate link and how does it work?

An affiliate link allows the YouTuber to earn a percentage of profits from any purchases made through that link. However, affiliate links usually generate little money for small YouTubers.

How can you calculate a baseline rate to charge sponsors?

You can calculate a baseline rate by taking your average views per video and multiplying that number by 20-30. That gives you a rate to charge for a basic ad read.

Why might retention rates dip during sponsor segments?

Retention rates may dip during sponsor segments because some viewers will click away rather than listen to advertisements.

What should you research before accepting a sponsorship?

Before accepting a sponsorship, research the company thoroughly to ensure they are legitimate and not a pyramid scheme which could damage your reputation.

When should you submit payment details to a sponsor?

You should submit your payment details only after the sponsored content has been posted publicly, not before.

Should you feel like you're selling out by taking sponsors?

No, you should not feel like you are selling out. Sponsorships allow you to earn money for the hard work you put into YouTube.

What backup should you have in case a sponsor does not provide a contract?

If a sponsor does not provide a written contract, keep the email chain as evidence of the terms you negotiated and agreed to.