Pretty good, hope you are enjoying going it alone. Still bringing the nuggets of wisdom, so I'm happy to keep drinking in the knowledge. Thanks for another great vid.
Trying to tamper my extreme enthusiasm with the sure knowledge that the dopamine highs don’t last and not to base my whole worth on a bunch of numbers, haha
Every upload is a step closer to your dreams. Consistency and passion are your greatest allies. Keep creating, stay inspired, and watch your channel flourish. You've got this!
Consistency can affect a channels growth but may not have a direct correlation to growth. Meaning if you have hundreds of videos you will get views on some of them just because you have so many that could potentially show up. Now if your viewers watch you every Tuesday for example then consistency can help but if you don't see a trend on a certain day then just release after it's polished enough to have better retention which ultimately will lead to better growth. I've since cut back from 2 barely polished videos a week to whenever they are polished enough that I'm more entertained and stimulated to watch the video. I'm still improving on each release but I'm seeing a solid trend with better edited videos.
I had three videos (at different times) take off months after they were uploaded and nothing in the analytics could have predicted this happening. Views from (10k to 120k after 11 months), from (15k to 427k after 12 months) and from (4k to 178k after 24 months). Don't give up on old videos.
similar thing happened with my channel as well. i made one short and it got around 1k views out of nowhere + around 100 something likes. while making the short, i knew it was gonna fail as i dont do anything fancy with my work. but nothing of that sort happened. then a few days later, 3 other shorts of mine skyrocketed too. one got around 2.5k views and the other two got around 1.5k views. nothing special about the shorts i made. i find this strange... i have high viewership on the shorts which got high viewership but no comments at all! NONE!
I can be a bit OCD on things. So, this advice really helped me stop over focusing on all the available analytics. Another big thing for me was when I saw my 3rd video perform WAY lower than the previous ones I started over focusing on it, the analytics, and negativity. Then I stopped, made some needed self-critiques, realized my son hadn't watched the video yet (one the main reasons I make this content is for us to enjoy it together), and sat and viewed it with him. That joy we shared really brought me back to a positive space as a new creator.
The timing of this video couldn't be more perfect. I have a real problem with always moving the goal post on myself and comparing myself to other channels even when videos do well I don't take enough time to celebrate the good. Sure it's a good thing to push yourself to improve but like you said connecting, and being helping is FAR more important. Something I need to remind myself of constantly.
tbh I too have been suffering form moving goal posts, and probably it has been more than 5 years without noticing it, recently I learned more about this matter and noticed that damn, I actually have some good qualities, after figuring out that I could use my knowledge in editing to my advantage and let it be the main selling point of my channels, I'll now focus on it to learn and apply more in my next videos.
Love this fresh take on ditching the number-crunching madness for genuine connection! It's like you've traded the calculator for a compass that points straight to what RUclips is really about. Subscribed for more of these reality checks!
Nate, keeping it real! This is also the conclusion that I am coming to after watching hours upon hours of channels like VidIQ, Channel Makers and Film Booth. They focus a lot on making videos on how to make thumbnails, making a catchy intro, make a good title and your channel will explode. After years of following advice like this, it seems to me that none of that stuff matters nearly as much as having good content.
Howdy howdy I feel.i understand analytics really well now and I'm happy with my channel. It is all about me and it has helped me mentally so much in such a short amount of time. It's making me happy, and I have recently had feedback from viewers saying how much they understand what I'm expressing
I have a massive passion for the project I'm showing on my channel, the Starship USS Enterprise! I can't wait to show my content and don't look too much at the analytics (even though I do look and take note, I'm not obsessed with it). My intro (sliding Enterprise bridge doors) lasts 2 seconds and my outro (sliding Enterprise bridge doors) lasts 2 seconds! My channel is growing, my Patreon is growing, I love my audience, I'm having a blast!
I used ChatGPT to write a humorous script where I played Captain Kirk and explain how the Enterprise would be converted to use renewable energy sources. It got 95 views, so I know it reached more than my F&F! It's the "Strangers" we want to attract, then make them friends. Make it your best Mr. Trek!
Thanks for the encouraging words, really appreciated. Interesting the advice on outro…I’ve removed them entirety however sometimes I feel my videos end abruptly. Anyway…keep experimenting is one of the funniest thing of youtube!
I always value your videos, but this one in particular is particularly good. I agree with every point, and think you've expressed it in a very clear and compelling way. I also think your unplanned diversion into talking about the value of creators was excellent - and for me, timely. Yesterday I was contacted by another RUclips I know who is feeling discouraged. I'm sending this to him now - it is full of encouragement and advice that is perfect for him. Thank you!
Nate I just wanted to comment and say thanks man. You have opened my eyes to a whole side of YT, I had been sadly ignoring for far to long. Thanks for the insight, advice and content man. I’ve been enjoying incorporating little pieces of advice in each new video. I particularly enjoy how you end your videos👌. Cheers man👊.
I know my channel can be controversial in nature and that is is literally a new channel. But your advice is amazing and i can already see myself being obsessed with my analytics. I took a week to kind of come back into a healthy mindset. I just have to know its going to take time for me to see results. Improve and hopefully make this a career. Thank ypu Nate for your awesome content 👏🏼
Hey Jeremy , I literally just went to your page and I’m going to be 💯 honest. I enjoyed your video. I subscribed not for you to do it in return, but I found your content to be informative! I will watch more. Let’s gooooooo!
Hey Nate!! I'm spending my Sunday binge watching your videos (and booping that like button left, right and centre!) I discovered you on a Channel Makers video just before you moved over to this channel and wanted to say THANKS because I find your videos the most watcheable and helpful videos on RUclips. I started my channel a year ago and my growth has exceeded my expectations massively which I am sooo grateful for, but as I sit down to plan my 2024 as I want to give it my all next year - I've been feeling crazy overwhelmed about where to start. I especially appreciate you checking in on us and reminding us of what really matters (value and impact!!) and I'm feeling clearer about where to focus now. Yay! Keep being your wonderful self!
Yours is one of the few RUclips channels I can watch (about success on RUclips) without getting discouraged or overwhelmed. Thank you for all the time you take to create videos for us!
Appreciate the simplification of an overtly complicated system Nate! This helped with thinking through how we want to shift our time and energy. Thanks for this!
Thanks for all you do @ThatNateBlack. I learn a lot here. My RUclips journey right now feels nice. I'm not really sure what to expect. I see the analytics but I don't feel overly anxious about the numbers. My daughter has watched me post for just over 90 days consistently and now she's inspired to start a channel of her own. I don't think she cared about the view count (very low). She said, "My mom is out here being consistent and finishing series." I had no idea she cared like that and did not see that coming. Kids truly watch everything and, right now, this journey is helping me be an example to my kids. I do care about analytics but if I'm able to influence my kids and other people (someday) to do something they dream of doing even with spare time, that's the best part of this journey. I don't know what these numbers will do, to be honest. I just have to keep doing what I love, keep learning, keep improving content and studying this art (rinse and repeat). 🙌🏾😁 This is how I'm feeling about my YT journey at this time.
I just came to the realization that views matter most after listing out all of my shorts in order of most viewed and then putting the swipe through rate next to them. I realized that the ones with the best metrics were actually pretty low on views even when I added in average view duration 🤯 Your videos are so helpful! You make me not want to give up. From now on, my primary focus will be on creating content with VALUE to kids who are my son’s age.
Another great video with some very very good points. I've had up and downs with my channel over the last 3 years and I've also thougth about giving up numerous times. However, evertime I think about giving up I then go back to my roots and double down on value for my viewers. Sometimes it takes a few videos to find the right one that will grow and others that just fade downward. The one thing that I do know to but true is VALUE. Thanks Nate for all that you do.
Howdy howdy Nate! Love and appreciate this video. And you said you "didn't plan on saying" those things that just came out. But most definitely needed to hear that. I think it was for me. ❤ At times, we can feel our channel isn't growing as fast, or maybe we're not doing enough. But, you're right! What we do does matter, and I love what I do and hope to impact and encourage others for a very long time! Thank you for your encouraging words!!
I’ve always felt like promotional ads on RUclips or elsewhere wouldn’t necessarily get you quality viewership. Sure, you’ll get some exposure for the time the ad runs but without it things become that more difficult. And it’s harder to connect with an audience that actually engages with your content.
Thank you for this little pep talk 😅 I've been humming and hahhhing about if I need to start posting on social channels. I recently made the decision 'no' because I know that I'll get engulfed in all the details and waste time. But the question has still been bugging me. I appreciate your clear direction! At least at this stage, my focus will remain on video creation. I'll revisit that thought in the future!
Thanks Nate for the uplifting moment in this video. I’m trying and think I’m doing well. Not entirely sure anymore but I’m trying. My shorts do better than long form.
The best RUclips educator on the platform! Followed you from channel makers. This is the top place to learn how to grow with the platform 10/10 my highest recommendations 💪
Great points, working in consistency is my main goal right now. The analytics fall into play later and the first couple of weeks after launching a video they aren't even very useful until you accrue more data!
Thanks Nate. We have a very specific niche and not likely to have a viral video. I had missed the slow but steady increase in our viewership because no one else is talking about it. Putting together a great thumbnail, title and description seems to be all the other 'experts' want to talk about but making the connection with our small fan base is really what it's all about. Delivering content they enjoy. Can't wait for your next insightful nugget!
Thank you so much for giving me permission to stop my weak, inconsistent attempts at promoting on all the socials! My Spidey-senses were telling me that it wasn't doing much good anyway. Time is time and I need every minute to be more gooder at my channelling and stuff. Cheers!
I just started RUclips earlier this month and I’m so happy I stumbled on your channel. Your content is so helpful and encouraging to a noob like me. Thanks man! 🤟
THANK YOU for the messaging. I feel like I've been doing a TON to improve my videos, more work into editing, working on thumbnails/titles, and boom, not as many views as expected compared to other videos. It's definitely a downer when those videos don't perform as you expect. So it's much appreciated to have that reassurance. Still trying to figure out how to get better at my niche. Just wanted to say thanks.
I'm still trying to figure it out. I put up on video that I had trouble editing and I ended up starting over and just put it out and it did pretty decent surprisingly. The next video I put more time and it did worse. Don't understand that
Spot on info! I have old videos and shorts suddenly going straight up in views after 140+ days and gaining subs off them, all this time later, so YES to all of this, thank you!
I am learning to focus on production more, but it is difficult filming while repairing vehicles. Sometimes it is a compromise, but it is still working, although slowly,
Thank you for this video. The Specialty and Valuable points have inspired a new drive. Definitely will be using those tidbits to stop putting off “the next” video.
Perfect example of views going up so who cares.... I'm currently watching this video 7 MONTHS AFTER it was uploaded... And it is perfectly what I needed at this exact moment. I appreciate you for doing these. Thank you
Thank you so much for posting this Nate! You are always crystal clear and to the point. I’ve never felt that I’m wasting even one second while watching your updates and I’m sure many of us agree with this statement🙂
Nate! Your videos are so helpful! I've been applying your teachings not only to YT but also to some of the stories I publish on Medium (the non fiction posts), on top of what I know is good there, and have seen improvements there as well. It's a different ball game, but some things you advise still apply. It's fantastic! Thank you so much for being here with your advice.
Thanks for this, Nate. YT can be an overwhelming vast sea of confusion where it can seem impossibly difficulty to know where to cast your line. This vid really helps to pinpoint the focus in a meaningful, manageable way.
Did I just see a Howdy Howdy in the background? Wow! It's always so exciting to watch Nate anytime any day! Thank you Nate for helping me to become a natural public speaker on my sit down videos. I am learning everyday. Of course I am victim of posting my videos on my other social media platforms. Let me focus on value.
What's interesting is is that I wouldn't say that my "specialty" is what my viewers would say it is. I've become a passable editor, especially in my niche. I also put out content that is among the most clear and easy-to-follow in my niche. But I get as many comments about my voice and cadence as I do anything else. That blows me away. I HATE my voice and legitimately thought it was something I would have to overcome when making videos.
Thank you for this info. I seem to have a problem with keeping retention. That is discouraging. I don't know if my content is boring or what, but I hope to keep improving.
Ok... So I have a channel that has people that come for different types of dance content. I'm able to post around two videos a day regularly (daily for now!) that covers two different types of subscribers I have, but does this mess with the ranking system within the analytics? I've watched someone break that segment down on analytics and they recommended having a video that ranks #1 hang out for 24 hours or longer, but since I have a consistent base that comes for distinctly different video types, and I have the capacity of posting multiple videos a day to help both parties, am I shooting myself in the foot here with that? I'm good right now with growing but I didn't know if I needed to modify this method until I hopefully get bigger.
That first bit you said really touched me, I got the chills almost. Watching your vids, even if I don’t learn what I’m there for, I still get a nice confidence and motivational boost
Huh. This helped me understand some recent stuff that went on with my channel a bit better. Also gives me more idea of how to handle and go with the growth in the long term. Which, speaking of, thanks for all you've done so far, both here and when you were with Channel Makers. I tend to be iffy on many RUclips help sources at this point, but you're one of the few I've stuck with since you've given me real direction and help when I needed it beyond repeating stuff like "good content" or "good thumbnails" and so on.
Yes, I would love a video on returning viewers vs. new viewers. And even though you say it's not important, I'm worried about low retention rates. My videos with fewer views have much better retention rates (but still only about 12%.... and I have no way to judge if that's normal or not for my type of video). And the really popular ones, which are the ones I never expected to perform well in the first place, are the ones that skyrocket, but have very poor retention (which makes sense, like for Part 2 of a three-part series when they haven't seen Part 1). I don't understand why the algorithm keeps pushing a video that has such a low retention rate and stops dead in the water (as far as impressions) for videos with a higher retention rate. I keep trying to make my intros more interesting, but that's where I lose most of my audience. Well, I guess I'm good at making thumbnails, anyway.
Appreciate the video, Nate! I started this variety gaming channel just to have fun practicing my editing skills, and recently decided to start taking it "seriously." Which of course has led to overly obsessive looking at my analytics and getting frustrated my performance is all over the place 😅 Will try to just pick one area to focus on for improvement instead of everything all at once!
Thank you Nate! i have been working on my editing skills for my newer content and I can definitely see a difference! I didn't realised selcting only thing to imporve on at a time would be the thing to do. Thank you again for your advices! You always come with powerful advices, simple but helpful! I will keep on improve on one thing at a time. Take care, see you!
Hey Nate, I have a question only tangentially related to the video haha What platform do you use to buy sound effects? I'm an animator, so sound effects are a big part of what I do. I particularly liked the sound effect at 4:33 in the video.
I've seen some videos don't have an ad immediately, instead they have one a few minutes in - do you think that avoids the immediate loss of viewers that pretty much every video has?
Thank you for that Nate, I have been feeling down about my growth and YES what I do matters, it does make a difference in peoples lives, even if it’s only a handful of watchers.
I really love this video, Nate! I also love analytics, but try not to rack my brain on what is or is not of value for my videos. Art is an interesting niche in terms of audience, but I appear to still be growing so I must be doing something right. Thanks again Nate, I always appreciate your candid advice!
Man.. I'm feeling terrible about mine. Last winter/spring I had a massive spike in viewership and channel growth and my channel has since then... came to a crashing halt. It's been getting harder and harder to get my videos done every week over the last couple of months. Still going to keep on keeping on though!
Feeling encouraged. Traffic is picking up. Viewers are telling us we are "inspiring" - probably the best small reward a creator can get. Unhappy with rushing through shoots and not focusing on planning videos (inspiring ones). But, I get a little more efficient with every video. I'm taking a break to align more with "storytelling" and getting good B-Roll among dozens of other things to work on. Planning and outlining a timeline for the story and shoot is my priority right now. It will make better videos and easier editing. I think I'm finding "our thing". Thumbnails and titles will be next someday. But Nate. . . how are you doing with your YTB journey? You seem to very work hard at inspiring others. Not only is your advice sound, but you care about all of us trying to do our thing. That must take a lot out of you (or maybe it is encouraging). Hopefully you know how inspiring you are to us!
Thank you for pointing out views vs CTR/AVD. My best performing videos have low CTR and AVD because they're pushed to a wider audience. I have learned not to stress much about most of the analytics (I'll check them out of curiosity sometimes).
Just a short comment to say thanks.. you have reduced some of my anxiety about all those YT analytics that seemed truly overwhelming me. And your videos: both helpful and enjoyable 😊
Thanks for the beginning I’ve been struggling a bit with growth I’m a artist but I don’t do those challenges or any of those basic click Baity topics but philosophical views and almost like a journal which I guess has been hard to find a niche for
Hey Nate! Loved the video! I would love to see a video about New vs. Returning Viewers! I would also love a video on "How to find your niche" That's something I've been trying to do!
no, not OK, I feel like the analytics are killing me. I get tons of new viewers, I get very little returning viewers. I like the way you described AVP.
RUclips “growth” is spiritual! If you believe in a God, pray that He will give you the wisdom and direction on “what” and “when” to upload. His plans will never fail, even if He unfortunately says “uploading to RUclips is a waste of your time!” ☀️💚
Great video! My channel is slowly growing and I am trying to improve each video as I can. Learning more as I go. One thing I have noticed is that a couple of my older videos seem to be getting more traction and their view and reach curves look like a horizontal S curve, going up at the end...I am thinking this is a good sign but I can't really understand if it is going to continue or will just drop off, what do you think is happening in this case?
Woof, after just uploading my first video and feeling slightly dejected over the view count (although it was very much anticipated, I am a new channel after all lol), the first minute of this video was incredibly reassuring and appreciated.
Soooooooo .... THANK YOU for saying I don't really need to be promoting this channel all over everywhere to get views!!!! I'm a full-time teacher, I'm a full-time mom of small kids and I JUST HAVE ZERO TIME to do that. I barely can get one video out each week (because it takes me 8 hrs to edit a 20 min video! -- which might be unnecessary ... )
Howdy everyone!
How are you feeling about your RUclips journey right now?
Thanks for asking mate! Getting there! How about you?
Are you going to vidsummit? I’ll be there. Would be great to meet you.
Pretty good, hope you are enjoying going it alone. Still bringing the nuggets of wisdom, so I'm happy to keep drinking in the knowledge. Thanks for another great vid.
Trying to tamper my extreme enthusiasm with the sure knowledge that the dopamine highs don’t last and not to base my whole worth on a bunch of numbers, haha
Better. I'm noticing more growth than usual and while it is slow, all I can do is make that next video.
Every upload is a step closer to your dreams. Consistency and passion are your greatest allies. Keep creating, stay inspired, and watch your channel flourish. You've got this!
So true, consistency is the key!
Consistency can affect a channels growth but may not have a direct correlation to growth.
Meaning if you have hundreds of videos you will get views on some of them just because you have so many that could potentially show up. Now if your viewers watch you every Tuesday for example then consistency can help but if you don't see a trend on a certain day then just release after it's polished enough to have better retention which ultimately will lead to better growth. I've since cut back from 2 barely polished videos a week to whenever they are polished enough that I'm more entertained and stimulated to watch the video. I'm still improving on each release but I'm seeing a solid trend with better edited videos.
really appreciate this 🙏
Smart words there
Needed to hear that
I had three videos (at different times) take off months after they were uploaded and nothing in the analytics could have predicted this happening. Views from (10k to 120k after 11 months), from (15k to 427k after 12 months) and from (4k to 178k after 24 months). Don't give up on old videos.
similar thing happened with my channel as well. i made one short and it got around 1k views out of nowhere + around 100 something likes. while making the short, i knew it was gonna fail as i dont do anything fancy with my work. but nothing of that sort happened. then a few days later, 3 other shorts of mine skyrocketed too. one got around 2.5k views and the other two got around 1.5k views. nothing special about the shorts i made. i find this strange... i have high viewership on the shorts which got high viewership but no comments at all! NONE!
I can be a bit OCD on things. So, this advice really helped me stop over focusing on all the available analytics. Another big thing for me was when I saw my 3rd video perform WAY lower than the previous ones I started over focusing on it, the analytics, and negativity. Then I stopped, made some needed self-critiques, realized my son hadn't watched the video yet (one the main reasons I make this content is for us to enjoy it together), and sat and viewed it with him. That joy we shared really brought me back to a positive space as a new creator.
The timing of this video couldn't be more perfect. I have a real problem with always moving the goal post on myself and comparing myself to other channels even when videos do well I don't take enough time to celebrate the good. Sure it's a good thing to push yourself to improve but like you said connecting, and being helping is FAR more important. Something I need to remind myself of constantly.
tbh I too have been suffering form moving goal posts, and probably it has been more than 5 years without noticing it, recently I learned more about this matter and noticed that damn, I actually have some good qualities, after figuring out that I could use my knowledge in editing to my advantage and let it be the main selling point of my channels, I'll now focus on it to learn and apply more in my next videos.
Love this fresh take on ditching the number-crunching madness for genuine connection! It's like you've traded the calculator for a compass that points straight to what RUclips is really about. Subscribed for more of these reality checks!
Nate, keeping it real! This is also the conclusion that I am coming to after watching hours upon hours of channels like VidIQ, Channel Makers and Film Booth. They focus a lot on making videos on how to make thumbnails, making a catchy intro, make a good title and your channel will explode. After years of following advice like this, it seems to me that none of that stuff matters nearly as much as having good content.
Howdy howdy
I feel.i understand analytics really well now and I'm happy with my channel.
It is all about me and it has helped me mentally so much in such a short amount of time.
It's making me happy, and I have recently had feedback from viewers saying how much they understand what I'm expressing
I have a massive passion for the project I'm showing on my channel, the Starship USS Enterprise! I can't wait to show my content and don't look too much at the analytics (even though I do look and take note, I'm not obsessed with it). My intro (sliding Enterprise bridge doors) lasts 2 seconds and my outro (sliding Enterprise bridge doors) lasts 2 seconds! My channel is growing, my Patreon is growing, I love my audience, I'm having a blast!
I used ChatGPT to write a humorous script where I played Captain Kirk and explain how the Enterprise would be converted to use renewable energy sources. It got 95 views, so I know it reached more than my F&F! It's the "Strangers" we want to attract, then make them friends. Make it your best Mr. Trek!
Thanks! :-)@@EnergyRiskEngineering
“Creating something that matters,”hats 🎩 off to all those trying to do this on RUclips! A really good succinct video, thank you 🙏 and fun at the end .
Thanks for all the inspiration!
Thanks for the encouraging words, really appreciated. Interesting the advice on outro…I’ve removed them entirety however sometimes I feel my videos end abruptly. Anyway…keep experimenting is one of the funniest thing of youtube!
I always value your videos, but this one in particular is particularly good. I agree with every point, and think you've expressed it in a very clear and compelling way. I also think your unplanned diversion into talking about the value of creators was excellent - and for me, timely. Yesterday I was contacted by another RUclips I know who is feeling discouraged. I'm sending this to him now - it is full of encouragement and advice that is perfect for him. Thank you!
Nate I just wanted to comment and say thanks man. You have opened my eyes to a whole side of YT, I had been sadly ignoring for far to long. Thanks for the insight, advice and content man.
I’ve been enjoying incorporating little pieces of advice in each new video. I particularly enjoy how you end your videos👌. Cheers man👊.
I know my channel can be controversial in nature and that is is literally a new channel. But your advice is amazing and i can already see myself being obsessed with my analytics. I took a week to kind of come back into a healthy mindset. I just have to know its going to take time for me to see results. Improve and hopefully make this a career. Thank ypu Nate for your awesome content 👏🏼
Hey Jeremy , I literally just went to your page and I’m going to be 💯 honest. I enjoyed your video. I subscribed not for you to do it in return, but I found your content to be informative! I will watch more. Let’s gooooooo!
Side note: I love your background thooo😍😍
Hey Nate!! I'm spending my Sunday binge watching your videos (and booping that like button left, right and centre!) I discovered you on a Channel Makers video just before you moved over to this channel and wanted to say THANKS because I find your videos the most watcheable and helpful videos on RUclips. I started my channel a year ago and my growth has exceeded my expectations massively which I am sooo grateful for, but as I sit down to plan my 2024 as I want to give it my all next year - I've been feeling crazy overwhelmed about where to start. I especially appreciate you checking in on us and reminding us of what really matters (value and impact!!) and I'm feeling clearer about where to focus now. Yay! Keep being your wonderful self!
Yours is one of the few RUclips channels I can watch (about success on RUclips) without getting discouraged or overwhelmed. Thank you for all the time you take to create videos for us!
Appreciate the simplification of an overtly complicated system Nate! This helped with thinking through how we want to shift our time and energy. Thanks for this!
Thanks for all you do @ThatNateBlack. I learn a lot here. My RUclips journey right now feels nice. I'm not really sure what to expect. I see the analytics but I don't feel overly anxious about the numbers. My daughter has watched me post for just over 90 days consistently and now she's inspired to start a channel of her own. I don't think she cared about the view count (very low). She said, "My mom is out here being consistent and finishing series." I had no idea she cared like that and did not see that coming. Kids truly watch everything and, right now, this journey is helping me be an example to my kids. I do care about analytics but if I'm able to influence my kids and other people (someday) to do something they dream of doing even with spare time, that's the best part of this journey. I don't know what these numbers will do, to be honest. I just have to keep doing what I love, keep learning, keep improving content and studying this art (rinse and repeat). 🙌🏾😁 This is how I'm feeling about my YT journey at this time.
Excellent topics to cover from more expensive equipment to growing the channel issues. Good stuff like always Nate.
I just came to the realization that views matter most after listing out all of my shorts in order of most viewed and then putting the swipe through rate next to them. I realized that the ones with the best metrics were actually pretty low on views even when I added in average view duration 🤯 Your videos are so helpful! You make me not want to give up. From now on, my primary focus will be on creating content with VALUE to kids who are my son’s age.
Another great video with some very very good points. I've had up and downs with my channel over the last 3 years and I've also thougth about giving up numerous times. However, evertime I think about giving up I then go back to my roots and double down on value for my viewers. Sometimes it takes a few videos to find the right one that will grow and others that just fade downward. The one thing that I do know to but true is VALUE. Thanks Nate for all that you do.
Well said! You’re rocking it
@@ThatNateBlack thanks l. I’m trying just looking to have a few back to back hits 😊
Howdy howdy Nate! Love and appreciate this video. And you said you "didn't plan on saying" those things that just came out. But most definitely needed to hear that. I think it was for me. ❤ At times, we can feel our channel isn't growing as fast, or maybe we're not doing enough. But, you're right! What we do does matter, and I love what I do and hope to impact and encourage others for a very long time! Thank you for your encouraging words!!
Thanks, Nate. Been binging a lot tonight. 12.13am in Australia. Will watch more videos tomorrow. Thanks, thanks, thanks. xxxx
I’ve always felt like promotional ads on RUclips or elsewhere wouldn’t necessarily get you quality viewership. Sure, you’ll get some exposure for the time the ad runs but without it things become that more difficult. And it’s harder to connect with an audience that actually engages with your content.
Thank you for this little pep talk 😅 I've been humming and hahhhing about if I need to start posting on social channels. I recently made the decision 'no' because I know that I'll get engulfed in all the details and waste time. But the question has still been bugging me. I appreciate your clear direction! At least at this stage, my focus will remain on video creation. I'll revisit that thought in the future!
Thanks Nate for the uplifting moment in this video. I’m trying and think I’m doing well. Not entirely sure anymore but I’m trying. My shorts do better than long form.
That was some very encouraging words Nate ❤ Thanks!
You're so welcome!
The best RUclips educator on the platform! Followed you from channel makers. This is the top place to learn how to grow with the platform 10/10 my highest recommendations 💪
Great points, working in consistency is my main goal right now. The analytics fall into play later and the first couple of weeks after launching a video they aren't even very useful until you accrue more data!
I really needed this I'm dealt a crappy hand on RUclips and life but I will never give im going to create no matter keep doing what you do nate
Make the returning viewers vs new viewers video.. please! 😊
Noted!
Thanks Nate. We have a very specific niche and not likely to have a viral video. I had missed the slow but steady increase in our viewership because no one else is talking about it. Putting together a great thumbnail, title and description seems to be all the other 'experts' want to talk about but making the connection with our small fan base is really what it's all about. Delivering content they enjoy. Can't wait for your next insightful nugget!
Well, you just picked up another subscriber by posting here. Your channel looks amazing. I'm looking forward to digging in!
Thank you so much for giving me permission to stop my weak, inconsistent attempts at promoting on all the socials! My Spidey-senses were telling me that it wasn't doing much good anyway. Time is time and I need every minute to be more gooder at my channelling and stuff. Cheers!
You said a lot without saying anything, cool. Might have to try that myself.
I just started RUclips earlier this month and I’m so happy I stumbled on your channel. Your content is so helpful and encouraging to a noob like me. Thanks man! 🤟
THANK YOU for the messaging. I feel like I've been doing a TON to improve my videos, more work into editing, working on thumbnails/titles, and boom, not as many views as expected compared to other videos. It's definitely a downer when those videos don't perform as you expect. So it's much appreciated to have that reassurance. Still trying to figure out how to get better at my niche. Just wanted to say thanks.
I'm still trying to figure it out. I put up on video that I had trouble editing and I ended up starting over and just put it out and it did pretty decent surprisingly. The next video I put more time and it did worse. Don't understand that
I feel the same! It’s so frustrating that the bad videos get views and the ones that I try hardest on get nothing.
Spot on info! I have old videos and shorts suddenly going straight up in views after 140+ days and gaining subs off them, all this time later, so YES to all of this, thank you!
I liked your “Next Focus” idea. It narrows down the overwhelming tasks at hand.
I am learning to focus on production more, but it is difficult filming while repairing vehicles. Sometimes it is a compromise, but it is still working, although slowly,
Nate can I just tell you I love your videos and how much value I get from you. thanks so much
when Nate askes if you are alright.. you feel how genuine it is. You are doing awesome work Nate
Thank you for this video. The Specialty and Valuable points have inspired a new drive. Definitely will be using those tidbits to stop putting off “the next” video.
Perfect example of views going up so who cares.... I'm currently watching this video 7 MONTHS AFTER it was uploaded... And it is perfectly what I needed at this exact moment. I appreciate you for doing these. Thank you
Thank you so much for posting this Nate! You are always crystal clear and to the point. I’ve never felt that I’m wasting even one second while watching your updates and I’m sure many of us agree with this statement🙂
Omg wasn't expecting that pep talk at 0:49 but really needed it!
Nate! Your videos are so helpful! I've been applying your teachings not only to YT but also to some of the stories I publish on Medium (the non fiction posts), on top of what I know is good there, and have seen improvements there as well. It's a different ball game, but some things you advise still apply. It's fantastic! Thank you so much for being here with your advice.
Thanks for this, Nate. YT can be an overwhelming vast sea of confusion where it can seem impossibly difficulty to know where to cast your line. This vid really helps to pinpoint the focus in a meaningful, manageable way.
Nate, I love your sincerity and positivity!
Did I just see a Howdy Howdy in the background? Wow! It's always so exciting to watch Nate anytime any day! Thank you Nate for helping me to become a natural public speaker on my sit down videos. I am learning everyday. Of course I am victim of posting my videos on my other social media platforms. Let me focus on value.
What's interesting is is that I wouldn't say that my "specialty" is what my viewers would say it is. I've become a passable editor, especially in my niche. I also put out content that is among the most clear and easy-to-follow in my niche. But I get as many comments about my voice and cadence as I do anything else. That blows me away. I HATE my voice and legitimately thought it was something I would have to overcome when making videos.
Thank you for this info. I seem to have a problem with keeping retention. That is discouraging. I don't know if my content is boring or what, but I hope to keep improving.
Ok... So I have a channel that has people that come for different types of dance content. I'm able to post around two videos a day regularly (daily for now!) that covers two different types of subscribers I have, but does this mess with the ranking system within the analytics? I've watched someone break that segment down on analytics and they recommended having a video that ranks #1 hang out for 24 hours or longer, but since I have a consistent base that comes for distinctly different video types, and I have the capacity of posting multiple videos a day to help both parties, am I shooting myself in the foot here with that? I'm good right now with growing but I didn't know if I needed to modify this method until I hopefully get bigger.
That first bit you said really touched me, I got the chills almost. Watching your vids, even if I don’t learn what I’m there for, I still get a nice confidence and motivational boost
Huh. This helped me understand some recent stuff that went on with my channel a bit better. Also gives me more idea of how to handle and go with the growth in the long term.
Which, speaking of, thanks for all you've done so far, both here and when you were with Channel Makers. I tend to be iffy on many RUclips help sources at this point, but you're one of the few I've stuck with since you've given me real direction and help when I needed it beyond repeating stuff like "good content" or "good thumbnails" and so on.
Yes, I would love a video on returning viewers vs. new viewers. And even though you say it's not important, I'm worried about low retention rates. My videos with fewer views have much better retention rates (but still only about 12%.... and I have no way to judge if that's normal or not for my type of video). And the really popular ones, which are the ones I never expected to perform well in the first place, are the ones that skyrocket, but have very poor retention (which makes sense, like for Part 2 of a three-part series when they haven't seen Part 1). I don't understand why the algorithm keeps pushing a video that has such a low retention rate and stops dead in the water (as far as impressions) for videos with a higher retention rate. I keep trying to make my intros more interesting, but that's where I lose most of my audience. Well, I guess I'm good at making thumbnails, anyway.
Your advice makes so much sense.... Love it🎉Thank you so much for honouring small creators doing things that matters. Needed to hear that.👍✅️🔴
Appreciate the video, Nate! I started this variety gaming channel just to have fun practicing my editing skills, and recently decided to start taking it "seriously." Which of course has led to overly obsessive looking at my analytics and getting frustrated my performance is all over the place 😅 Will try to just pick one area to focus on for improvement instead of everything all at once!
Thank you Nate! i have been working on my editing skills for my newer content and I can definitely see a difference! I didn't realised selcting only thing to imporve on at a time would be the thing to do. Thank you again for your advices! You always come with powerful advices, simple but helpful! I will keep on improve on one thing at a time. Take care, see you!
Yes, I’d love to see a video about new vs returning viewers. That’s one I’ve never known what to do with it so more info would be awesome!
Hey Nate, I have a question only tangentially related to the video haha What platform do you use to buy sound effects? I'm an animator, so sound effects are a big part of what I do. I particularly liked the sound effect at 4:33 in the video.
Thank you Nate, I really needed this. Great video!
I've seen some videos don't have an ad immediately, instead they have one a few minutes in - do you think that avoids the immediate loss of viewers that pretty much every video has?
Thank you for that Nate, I have been feeling down about my growth and YES what I do matters, it does make a difference in peoples lives, even if it’s only a handful of watchers.
I deeply appreciate the message at the beginning! Thanks for another informative video!
I appreciate you and your channel, fantastic research and genuine interaction, thanks for putting in the effort!!
I really love this video, Nate! I also love analytics, but try not to rack my brain on what is or is not of value for my videos. Art is an interesting niche in terms of audience, but I appear to still be growing so I must be doing something right. Thanks again Nate, I always appreciate your candid advice!
Shew! Thank you for this. This video came at the perfect time since I've been wringing my hands over how to be all the things all the time.
I love how you distil things down to the essentials and give us permission (often backed with data) to only do the things that work.
Man.. I'm feeling terrible about mine. Last winter/spring I had a massive spike in viewership and channel growth and my channel has since then... came to a crashing halt. It's been getting harder and harder to get my videos done every week over the last couple of months. Still going to keep on keeping on though!
I feel exactly the same.
Thanks again Nate. You are an inspiration and even better a terrific mentor!
Dude. That unscripted part toward the beginning was exactly what I needed to hear today.
So thank you for letting it happen and not cutting it out.
Feeling encouraged. Traffic is picking up. Viewers are telling us we are "inspiring" - probably the best small reward a creator can get. Unhappy with rushing through shoots and not focusing on planning videos (inspiring ones). But, I get a little more efficient with every video. I'm taking a break to align more with "storytelling" and getting good B-Roll among dozens of other things to work on. Planning and outlining a timeline for the story and shoot is my priority right now. It will make better videos and easier editing. I think I'm finding "our thing". Thumbnails and titles will be next someday.
But Nate. . . how are you doing with your YTB journey? You seem to very work hard at inspiring others. Not only is your advice sound, but you care about all of us trying to do our thing. That must take a lot out of you (or maybe it is encouraging). Hopefully you know how inspiring you are to us!
A STORY, that's all you need!
Oh gosh! Thank you! I needed to watch this at this exact moment!
Thank you for pointing out views vs CTR/AVD. My best performing videos have low CTR and AVD because they're pushed to a wider audience. I have learned not to stress much about most of the analytics (I'll check them out of curiosity sometimes).
Just a short comment to say thanks.. you have reduced some of my anxiety about all those YT analytics that seemed truly overwhelming me. And your videos: both helpful and enjoyable 😊
Thanks for the beginning I’ve been struggling a bit with growth I’m a artist but I don’t do those challenges or any of those basic click Baity topics but philosophical views and almost like a journal which I guess has been hard to find a niche for
Very useful information and much appreciated! Just a side note, I like your "howdy, howdy" on your shelf ;) :D Have a great week Nate!
I like the focus on one thing at a time advice. I definitely find that it works best for me.
When I hear “Howdy, howdy”, I know I’m about to learn something so useful! Thanks, Nate!
You are awesome Nate. Appreciate you much :)
Hey Nate! Loved the video! I would love to see a video about New vs. Returning Viewers! I would also love a video on "How to find your niche" That's something I've been trying to do!
what a great ending! Thanks for this info, excellent as always.
I would love to hear more about APV and what I should hope that graph would look like.
I love how it just cut out after you said you don't need outros. LOL. Your videos are so helpful and engaging. Thank you.
no, not OK, I feel like the analytics are killing me. I get tons of new viewers, I get very little returning viewers. I like the way you described AVP.
RUclips “growth” is spiritual! If you believe in a God, pray that He will give you the wisdom and direction on “what” and “when” to upload. His plans will never fail, even if He unfortunately says “uploading to RUclips is a waste of your time!” ☀️💚
Howdy Howdy Nate! Glad I got a chance to chat with you at VidSummit this year!
Great video! My channel is slowly growing and I am trying to improve each video as I can. Learning more as I go. One thing I have noticed is that a couple of my older videos seem to be getting more traction and their view and reach curves look like a horizontal S curve, going up at the end...I am thinking this is a good sign but I can't really understand if it is going to continue or will just drop off, what do you think is happening in this case?
Woof, after just uploading my first video and feeling slightly dejected over the view count (although it was very much anticipated, I am a new channel after all lol), the first minute of this video was incredibly reassuring and appreciated.
Nate, what do you think is a better strategy for growth; 2 long form videos a week and 1-2 shorts or 1 long form video a week and 3-4 shorts?
Of course we wanna hear tips on new vs returning and balancing that
Most excellent. I’m rejigging how I do things right now. Brilliant work. And I enjoyed it. Thanks.
Psychology behind the Analysis. Great!!! ❤❤
I’ve been vlogging for one month! Just learning right now until I get my flow going right. Once video at a time ❤
You are one of my very favorite people on RUclips, Nate.
Soooooooo .... THANK YOU for saying I don't really need to be promoting this channel all over everywhere to get views!!!! I'm a full-time teacher, I'm a full-time mom of small kids and I JUST HAVE ZERO TIME to do that. I barely can get one video out each week (because it takes me 8 hrs to edit a 20 min video! -- which might be unnecessary ... )
You got me with “you don’t need a phd in RUclips analytics “. 🤦♀️. I feel like I do.