This Is Why Your Videos Don't Get The Views You Want

Summary

In this episode of 'The Boost', the hosts focus on the art of crafting effective YouTube intros. They discuss the importance of setting the right pace and expectations for viewers, emphasizing the need to avoid long, boring intros that don't add value. The conversation touches on the energy mismatch between intros and creators, the concept of 'buying time' to retain viewers, and the strategic use of recaps without alienating new audiences. The hosts also highlight the significance of aligning intros with video titles and thumbnails to meet viewer expectations, and advise against using the intro for call-to-actions, advocating for a content-focused approach instead.

Takeaways

• 😀 The intro of a YouTube video is crucial as it sets the pace and expectation for the viewer.
• ⏰ Avoid long and boring intros; they can lead to a significant drop in viewer retention.
• 🎥 Branding through intros can be beneficial, but ensure it adds value and doesn't alienate new viewers.
• 🔋 Match the energy of your intro with your video's content to maintain viewer interest.
• ⏳ 'Buying time' is a concept where creators aim to hook viewers within the first 10-15 seconds to keep them watching.
• 🔄 Recap previous videos succinctly, without assuming viewers have seen all your content.
• 📊 Utilize YouTube analytics to assess intro effectiveness and adjust based on viewer retention rates.
• 🚫 Avoid using the intro for call-to-actions like 'like, share, subscribe'; focus on content instead.
• 🎬 Tease the climax or a compelling moment from the video in the intro to entice viewers to watch further.
• 📝 Scripting the opening hook can help ensure the intro aligns with the video's title and thumbnail, setting the right expectations.
• 📈 For channels with under 100,000 views, aim for a retention rate of around 70% after 30 seconds; for larger channels, 60% is acceptable.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the 'Boost' YouTube channel?

The primary focus of the 'Boost' YouTube channel is to provide tips and strategies on how to grow a YouTube audience.

What was the topic discussed in the episode prior to the one mentioned in the transcript?

The topic discussed in the episode prior to the one mentioned in the transcript was about Minecraft and why it's considered the greatest game to play.

Why is the intro of a YouTube video considered important according to the transcript?

The intro of a YouTube video is considered important because it sets the pace for the entire video and establishes the expectation for the viewer.

What is the suggested duration for an effective YouTube video intro according to the transcript?

The suggested duration for an effective YouTube video intro is around 15 seconds, though it can be less or more depending on the creative decision of the creator.

What does the concept of 'buying time' in a YouTube video intro mean?

The concept of 'buying time' in a YouTube video intro means hooking the viewer enough within the first 10 to 15 seconds to make them continue watching the video longer.

Why is it not advisable to discuss the previous video in detail during the intro?

It is not advisable to discuss the previous video in detail during the intro because not all viewers may have watched it, and it's important to treat each video as if it could be the first one a viewer is watching.

What should be the approach to recapping previous videos in the intro?

The approach to recapping previous videos in the intro should be brief, using one to two sentences to catch viewers up without going into excessive detail.

What is the recommended retention rate after the first 30 seconds of a YouTube video?

The recommended retention rate after the first 30 seconds of a YouTube video is around 70% or better for videos with under 100,000 views, and around 60% for videos with millions of views.

Why is it effective to tease the climax of the video in the intro?

Teasing the climax of the video in the intro is effective because it helps buy time from the viewer by showing them that the video will deliver on the promise made by the title and thumbnail, and it excites them to watch the buildup to the climax.

What should be avoided in the intro of a YouTube video according to the transcript?

According to the transcript, one should avoid using the precious time in the beginning of the intro for call-to-actions such as asking for likes, comments, subscriptions, or directing viewers to external links.

Why is scripting the opening hook of a YouTube video important?

Scripting the opening hook of a YouTube video is important to ensure that it aligns with the expectations set by the title and thumbnail, and to make sure it meets or exceeds those expectations within the first few seconds.