YouTube has become a lucrative platform for content creators to monetize their videos and generate substantial income. With over 1.9 billion monthly active users, it offers a vast audience base and diverse monetization opportunities. In this article, we will explore ten key strategies that can help you make money on YouTube in 2019 and take advantage of the coveted green dollar sign.

1. Create High-Quality Content

The foundation of any successful YouTube channel is high-quality content. Invest in good equipment, master video editing techniques, and focus on delivering valuable and engaging videos that appeal to your target audience. Remember, quality content keeps viewers coming back for more.

Your content should be unique, well-researched, and provide useful information or entertainment to your viewers. Maintain a consistent posting schedule to develop a loyal subscriber base.

2. Optimize Video Titles, Descriptions, and Tags

Optimizing your video titles, descriptions, and tags is crucial to increase the visibility of your videos. Conduct keyword research using tools like Google Keyword Planner or YouTube’s own search suggestions to identify relevant keywords with high search volume.

Incorporate these keywords naturally into your video titles, descriptions, and tags to help your videos rank higher in search results. This will attract more viewers and increase the likelihood of earning ad revenue.

3. Engage with Your Audience

Building a loyal community on YouTube is essential. Respond to comments, engage with your viewers through live chats or community posts, and encourage them to like, share, and subscribe. Make your viewers feel valued and appreciated to foster long-term relationships.

Listening to your audience’s feedback and incorporating their suggestions into your content will not only improve your videos but also increase viewer loyalty and encourage more interaction.

4. Collaborate with Other YouTubers

Collaborating with other YouTubers can expose your channel to a wider audience and attract new subscribers. Choose collaborators whose content aligns with yours and reach out to them for potential partnerships.

Collaborations can take various forms, such as guest appearances, joint videos, or even cross-promotion. This strategy can significantly boost your channel’s growth and increase your monetization potential.

5. Advertise Your Merchandise

Utilize YouTube’s merchandise shelf feature to sell your branded merchandise directly to your viewers. Create unique and appealing designs that represent your brand and leverage your influence to drive sales.

Promote your merchandise through dedicated videos or by integrating mentions and links in your regular content, building a loyal fan base that supports your creative endeavors.

6. Enable Channel Memberships

YouTube’s channel membership feature allows your subscribers to pay a monthly fee to access exclusive content or perks. This can include behind-the-scenes videos, early access to new releases, or even personalized merchandise.

This revenue stream not only generates a steady income but also strengthens your relationship with your most dedicated viewers.

7. Participate in YouTube’s Partner Program

Joining YouTube’s Partner Program is a prerequisite for monetization on the platform. To be eligible, you need to have at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months. Once accepted, you can monetize your videos through ads, Super Chat, Channel Memberships, and more.

Ensure you comply with YouTube’s content policies and guidelines to maintain your partnership status and continue earning revenue.

8. Explore Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships

With a significant following and engaging content, you can attract brands and secure sponsorships. Collaborating with brands can not only provide you with monetary compensation but also expose your channel to a broader audience.

However, it is essential to maintain authenticity and only promote products or services that align with your values and audience’s interests. Transparently disclose your partnerships to maintain trust with your viewers.

9. Create and Sell Online Courses

If you have specialized knowledge or expertise in a particular field, consider creating and selling online courses. YouTube can serve as an excellent platform to promote and market your courses, while the actual content is delivered through other platforms like Udemy or Teachable.

By monetizing your expertise, you can diversify your income streams and provide valuable educational content to your viewers.

10. Utilize YouTube’s Premium Content

YouTube Premium offers a subscription-based service where viewers can enjoy an ad-free experience, access exclusive content, and support their favorite creators. Enabling your videos for YouTube Premium ensures additional revenue from premium subscribers who watch your content.

Remember to provide compelling and unique content that appeals to the preferences of paid subscribers, enhancing the chances of retaining them and maximizing your earnings.

In conclusion, building a successful and profitable YouTube channel requires dedication, creativity, and a deep understanding of your audience. By following these ten strategies, you can optimize your chances of making money on YouTube in 2019 and capitalize on the green dollar sign.

References:

1. “YouTube Partner Program: Overview and eligibility” – YouTube Help Center

2. “YouTube Premium benefits for creators” – YouTube Help Center

About the Author:

John Smith is a digital marketing specialist and passionate YouTuber. He has successfully monetized his YouTube channel, generating significant income from various streams. Through his articles, John shares his expertise in the field, helping aspiring content creators unlock their full potential. [Image credit: John Smith]