In this blog post, I want to tell you about the two big YouTube updates that were just announced. I’ll also share some suggestions on what you should be doing with your channel to be prepared.
I’ve been using YouTube for years. It’s one of my favorite marketing strategies. With over 300 videos on my YouTube channel, I get a little concerned any time I hear about a change in policies.
Two big changes are taking place this month on YouTube. If you are a YouTuber, you need to take immediate actions to be ready. But don’t panic. It’s not all bad news. In fact, I really like some of the changes.
2 big YouTube updates and what you need to do
1. YouTube eliminated header (banner) links on August 10th. This really concerned me at first. I’ve had a link to my free eBook on my YouTube channel banner for years. It has brought me a lot of traffic.
But YouTube is offering a new way to display links on your channel. Now you will be able to add up to 12 clickable links. Both mobile and desktop viewers can find those links both at the top of your page and on your bio (about) page. They will show both the link title you choose and the actual web address of the link.
2. As of August 31st, there will be no longer be clickable links in YouTube shorts descriptions or comments. YouTube says this change will roll out gradually.
I think YouTube is trying to control spammers and scammers. For years they have had multiple videos linking to the same crummy websites outside YouTube. It’s just one more example of how the spammers have made it tough for us legit YouTubers.
However, starting in September, YouTube shorts will be able to be linked directly to other content on your YouTube channel. This includes long form videos, live streams, and other shorts – but not playlists. It will be a clickable link right on the YouTube short video.
I really like this
I think it will be a great way to use YouTube shorts to get more views on my long form videos.
YouTube says you can start preparing your channel profile links on August 10th. Viewers will start seeing them starting on August 23rd.
All of this is a bit of a hassle right now, but I’m convinced these YouTube updates will make YouTube even better. I’m sure this will actually help increase my overall view time.
If you are a YouTuber, I encourage you to get on this now. I hope this information helps.
Please feel free to reach out to me with questions at any time. I always enjoy sharing ideas with other marketers.
To your success,
Joe Barclay
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