OUTDATED YouTube Tips to STOP in 2024

In today's rapidly evolving digital world, many YouTube creators find themselves sticking to outdated strategies that no longer resonate with audiences.

Common practices like polite opening scripts and overly creative thumbnails often miss the mark, holding back the potential of even the most talented content creators.

By shifting focus to what truly engages viewers, creators can revolutionize their approach.

This involves prioritizing main points of value, or "value pops," and delivering content in a way that feels immediate and engaging.

Understanding the importance of time efficiency and strategic thumbnail creation can make a substantial difference in retaining audience interest and growing a channel successfully.

Key Takeaways

• Focus on delivering key points of value in your videos.
• Aim to save time by streamlining content delivery.
• Avoid overly clever thumbnails that confuse potential viewers.

The Politeness Misconception

Nate addresses a common problem among content creators: being overly polite in their videos.

He argues that many creators feel compelled to stick to a scripted, formal approach that includes long-winded introductions, unnecessary small talk, and overly detailed explanations.

Creators, he notes, often start their videos with lengthy greetings and end them with drawn-out farewells. These practices can make the content feel less engaging and more tedious to viewers.

Nate emphasizes the need to focus on "value pops," which are the most interesting and compelling parts of a video.

For instance, whether one is providing tips, telling a story, or sharing an entertaining moment, concentrating on these high-value sections can significantly enhance viewer engagement.

Common Mistakes

1. Predictable Structure

• Long intros.
• Extended conclusions.
• Unnecessary transitions.

2. Over-Explaining

• Giving too much background information.
• Detailing points excessively.

3. Polite Language

• Using formal or scripted language.
• Including unnecessary small talk.

Nate suggests a more direct approach. He advises creators to start their videos as if the action is already happening.

This method can make the content seem more dynamic and engaging. For instance, diving straight into a compelling scene or key point without preamble can capture the audience's attention more effectively.

Actionable Tips

1. Shorten Everything

• Reduce introductions and conclusions to a quarter of their current length.
• Minimize the time spent on transitions and explanations.

2. Focus on Value

• Identify key moments or value pops in the content.
• Build the video around these highlights.

3. Be Direct

• Start with action or important information.
• Avoid unnecessary formalities or small talk.

Introducing Value Moments

Knowing Your Viewers

Understanding your audience is the first step in creating effective content.

Different channels attract different types of viewers, and it's crucial to know what your audience values.

This understanding will help you tailor your content to their preferences, making sure you deliver what they find most engaging.

Think about the key interests of your audience. Are they looking for entertainment, education, or a mix of both?

Look at your comments and analytics to gather insights into what keeps them coming back.

By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure your content provides real value.

Focusing on Main Ideas

Every video should be centered around the main points you want to convey.

These are the moments that hold the most value for your viewers. It could be a crucial tip, an entertaining segment, or an important storyline.

These key points should stand out in your content, drawing your audience's attention.

Make a list of the top 2-3 points you want to highlight in your video.

Ensure that these points are clear and impactful. Everything else in your video should support these main ideas, enhancing their effect and making them memorable for your viewers.

Engaging Your Audience Instantly

Start videos as if the action already began. This technique makes viewers feel like they jumped into something exciting.

For example, imagine a scenario that’s mid-action. This keeps people interested from the start.

Value Pops
Focus on the most important parts. These are the “value pops” of your video.

Think of them as the best moments or key points you want to share. Organize the rest of your content around these highlights.

Be Concise
Say things faster. Take a quarter of the time you think you need. This makes your content more engaging.

For example, if you think explaining a point takes 2 minutes, aim for 30 seconds.

Tips for Improving Engagement

• Avoid Small Talk: Jump straight to the main points.
• Use Clear Thumbnails: Make sure your thumbnails can be understood by everyone, not just a few.
• Limit YouTube Shorts: Only use them if they fit your strategy.

Time Efficiency in Content Delivery

A big challenge for YouTube creators is managing the length of their videos.

Many tend to fill their content with unnecessary chatter, thinking it’s essential for engagement. In reality, it’s the opposite. When time isn’t managed well, audience retention drops.

To address this, creators should focus on delivering their key points quickly and effectively.

Nate often noted that creators take twice as long as needed to convey their messages.

For example, if a creator thinks they need two minutes for an outro, it should be cut to 30 seconds.

Quick Tips:

• Avoid unnecessary introductions: Start the video as though the main content is already underway.
• Cut the fluff: Stick to the main points and avoid drawn-out explanations.
• Focus on value pops: Prioritize content that offers the most value to viewers.

Thumbnail Strategies

Stop Trying to Be Too Clever

Creators often make the mistake of being overly clever with their thumbnails.

Common strategies that usually backfire include using memes, literal translations, or inside jokes.

For example, a thumbnail with someone holding a crystal ball to signify predicting the future may not work well.

Thumbnails should appeal to a broad audience instead of a niche group who understand the reference.

Essential Rules for Thumbnails

1. Context Matters
   If viewers need to have already seen your video to understand the thumbnail, it’s not effective.
2. Initial Interest
   Thumbnails should spark interest on their own without requiring prior knowledge of the video.Channels with large audiences or niche humor can get away with it, but most cannot. Aim for broad appeal to ensure your thumbnails attract new viewers.

The Shorts Misconception

When to Use YouTube Shorts

Many creators believe they must produce YouTube Shorts.

This belief stems from the desire to gain views or because others claim it's essential.

YouTube Shorts can be useful but only if they provide value to both the creator and the audience.

It's crucial to enjoy making them or target an audience that prefers brief, engaging content.

Strategic Audience Development

For most creators, Shorts may not attract the desired audience long-term.

Shorts should fit into a broader strategy that aligns with the channel's goals.

It's essential for creators to focus on actions that lead to meaningful engagement rather than following trends just for the sake of views or subscribers.

Reflecting on Your Actions

Importance of Acting with Purpose

Creators often fall into the habit of following trends just because they seem necessary.

It's easy to assume certain phrases or actions must be included in videos. This mindset can be limiting.

Instead, focus on delivering clear value to your audience.

The content you share should be intentional and meaningful, not just filler to meet assumed standards.

Long-Term Goals versus Short-Term Objectives

When considering YouTube strategies, weigh the benefits of short-term actions against long-term goals.

Publishing a video just for immediate views might not help build a loyal audience.

Instead, focusing on content that attracts engaged viewers can lead to sustainable growth.

Evaluating your actions based on their potential long-term impact can ensure a consistent and dedicated audience.