What’s up man! Hope you’re doing good! Are you ready to take your YouTube game to the next level? Forget everything you thought you knew because 2025 is bringing some HUGE changes to the platform and if you’re not on board, you’re going to get left behind. I’ve been digging deep, analyzing data from over 50 clients and the biggest names in the marketing space, and I’m here to spill the tea on what’s REALLY working right now. If you’re a course creator, coach, or service provider looking to generate leads and sales organically, buckle up because these strategies will blow your mind.
Strategy #1: Live Streaming – The Secret Weapon You’re Probably Ignoring
Hold on, before you scroll past, I know what you’re thinking: Live streaming is so last year. But, trust me, this isn’t your average live stream. Live video is becoming increasingly important for audience growth and community building. But don’t just jump on and start rambling! There are some crucial nuances you NEED to know:
- Set a Non-Negotiable Schedule: Think of your live streams as a weekly TV show. The magic happens when people show up live. So, pick a day and time, and stick to it like glue. Consistency is KEY. Promote your schedule in advance to get people to show up.
- Incentivize, Incentivize, Incentivize: Don’t expect viewers to show up just because you’re going live. Give them a reason! Offer special giveaways, do a live Q&A, or ask for feedback. Make it interactive and valuable for them.
- Don’t let Live Streams be your only video strategy. Pre-recorded content is still necessary for reaching new audiences. While live streams are great for building a loyal following, they’re not the best for attracting new viewers. Replays don’t have that same magic as a live event. So, pre-recorded videos are still necessary for bringing in new eyes.
- Show Up Like You Know Your Stuff: Have a plan for every live stream, don’t just wing it! You need to show your authority and confidence to convert viewers into clients. Plan your content, prepare potential questions, and make it look like you know what you’re talking about. The goal of your live stream should be to get clients or inquiries and sell your courses.
Why Live Streams Scare Me (and Maybe You Too)
I’ll be honest, I hate doing live streams! It’s not the live part; I can talk about YouTube for hours. My struggle is committing to a specific day and time each week. It’s about boundaries and not always wanting to be on camera. I also dread the tech side of live streaming. I know other YouTube strategists seem to have it all together, but I’m still working through my impostor syndrome with this.
Strategy #2: Unlocking the Power of Community Building
Forget vanity metrics! If you are not building a loyal community, your YouTube channel will wither and die. It’s not just about views; it’s about creating a tribe of die-hard fans. And guess what? YouTube communities are stronger than those on any other platform.
- Video is King: People watching your videos are more invested in you than they are through a blog or a quick post on social media. That extra connection creates loyalty that other platforms just can’t match.
- Personality Sells! People are craving authentic content. Don’t be afraid to show your personality; it’s more important than polished content. According to YouTube, 65% of Gen Z viewers prefer content that is personality driven.
- Engage and Listen to Your Audience: Your audience holds the key to your success. Take their ideas, comments, and thoughts into consideration. Use the community tab to get ideas and make them feel heard. Ask them for input on titles, video ideas, and series.
- Treat YouTube Like a Social Media Platform: It’s not just a search engine! Interact, reply to comments, and ask people to engage. The comment section is your gold mine for social interaction.
How to Make Your Audience Feel Like They’re Part of the Process
Here’s a real-world example of how I get my audience involved: I post two title ideas on my community tab to see how they are titling similar content. I also ask which of two title ideas that they like for my next video. When they see the video published with the title that they voted on, they get excited. It’s about making them feel heard and a part of the journey.
Strategy #3: Native Social Commerce – Your Secret Weapon for Making Bank!
Are you ready to turn your YouTube channel into a cash-generating machine? It’s time to stop leaving money on the table! YouTube and Shopify have teamed up, and it’s a game-changer.
- Link Products Directly From Your Videos: You can now add links to products within your videos where viewers can easily click and purchase, and you can make a commission. No more sending people offsite; it’s all native to YouTube.
- Set Up Your Own Shop: YouTube allows you to set up your own shop through platforms like Shopify, Spring, and Spreadshop where you can sell your products directly below your videos.
- Don’t forget about Youtube’s revenue options. If you are a YouTube partner, you can also utilize features like memberships, the YouTube affiliate program, and brand deals.
- Diversify your revenue streams. If you are going to talk about or feature a product, try to make it one that will allow you to earn a commission.
My Journey into Native Social Commerce
I’m still figuring out how to make the most of these new tools but I know the potential is there! I’m looking at setting up my own shop in the next few weeks.
Strategy #4: The Power of YOU – Creator Generated Content
In 2025, people want to connect with real humans, not just faceless brands. It’s time to unleash the power of your personal brand! People trust recommendations from creators more than from businesses.
- Show Your Face! It’s faster to build trust with a personal brand than a business brand. A face is more trustworthy than a logo.
- Embrace Storytelling: Use storytelling in your videos to make an authentic connection with your audience. Let your audience in on more of your life. Showing the behind the scenes of your work can create connection.
- Be Authentic and Relatable: Don’t try to be perfect! People want to see the real you, flaws and all. I try to be myself on camera, but it’s not always how I am in real life. I know I need to let my audience see more of my non-YouTube self, not just my professional side.
Why Showing Up is So Hard
Sometimes it feels easier to hide behind a polished image, but I’m learning that my audience connects with the real me, too. I don’t always have my hair and makeup done, and my office isn’t always perfect, and I want to find ways to show that.
Conclusion
2025 will bring major changes, and these five strategies are your ticket to success. Don’t get left behind. Start implementing these tips and watch your channel explode. It’s about being consistent with live streams, building a community that’s loyal, monetizing your content with native social commerce, and embracing your authentic self. The future of YouTube is all about connection, and if you are willing to do the work, success will be yours.
FAQs
I’m new to YouTube, where should I start? First, start with identifying who your audience is! Then, consider using live streams to start building a community, but don’t forget to create pre-recorded content as well to attract new viewers. Also, don’t be afraid to show your face, personality, and story to your audience.
How often should I be live streaming? Pick a consistent day and time each week, and stick to it. This will help build your audience. Make sure you create a show plan each time so that you will show up confidently and offer valuable content for your viewers to keep them engaged.
Is live streaming the most important strategy? Live streaming can be a valuable and quick way to build community and engage with your audience. However, pre-recorded videos are essential for attracting new viewers. Live streams are good for converting viewers who are “on the fence” into loyal fans. Live streams should not be the only video you are posting in your content plan.