Title optimization

Title optimization is another important component in making a video go viral. In youtube, you can change the title of your video whenever you want. Because of this, it can work to your advantage to use a catchy (and sometimes misleading) title at the beginning, and then once the video starts to catch some attention, to switch the title to a more relevant title. Another idea is to use the phrases “leaked video”, “exclusive”, or “behind the scenes.”

Image via Wikipedia

Optimizing the Thumbnail

The best way to get people to actually click on your video is by using a compelling thumbnail.  There are a few consideration you need to make and to keep in mind.  Youtube has 3 ways of creating a thumbnail for you and one of them is using the frame that appears directly in the middle of your video. It’s definetely not a surprise to know that videos with a half naked woman get tens of thousands of views.  You can’t say that this is always the best strategy, but it is certainly something to keep in mind.  Remember that your thumbnails should always be clear and ideally it will have a face or a persons body in it.

Commenting

One of the most effective strategies for gaining viral video marketing traffic is to have multiple youtube user accounts. These accounts can be used to add comments to your videos, often comments that may stir up controversy.  Then from another one of your accounts you can post a reply or have other people in your office posting replies. This gains interest in your videos. For every 1000 views you will probably get 1 comment as most people on youtube are browsing the site while not logged in.

Don’t be afraid to delete commments if they aren’t what you’re looking for. Remember this is a marketing campaign, and you looking to get the most benefit and exposure for your brand, so don’t be afraid to delete negative comments.

Part 4 coming soon.

Related articles:

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• Online video advertising: Trending up
• Thumbnails on YouTube Can Be a Dirty Business, Craig Rubens Says