YouTube, the world’s largest video-sharing platform, offers a lucrative opportunity for content creators to earn money. With a diverse range of monetization options, creators can turn their passion into a profitable venture. In this article, we will explore various ways on how you can make money on YouTube in 2018.
1. YouTube Partner Program
The YouTube Partner Program allows creators to earn revenue through advertisements displayed on their videos. To join the program, channels must have at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours in the past 12 months. Participating creators receive a share of the ad revenue generated from their videos.
Once eligible, creators can enable monetization on their videos by linking their YouTube account to an AdSense account. However, it’s important to deliver high-quality content and adhere to YouTube’s community guidelines to keep the monetization privileges.
2. Sponsored Content
Collaborating with brands through sponsored content is another popular way to monetize on YouTube. Creators can partner with brands to promote their products or services in their videos. The terms of the sponsorship, including the payment and video requirements, are usually negotiated between the creator and the brand.
However, it’s essential for creators to maintain transparency with their audience by clearly disclosing the sponsored nature of the content. Honesty and credibility are crucial in building trust with the viewers.
3. Merchandise Shelf
The merchandise shelf feature allows eligible creators to showcase their official merchandise directly on their YouTube channel. This enables creators to sell items such as t-shirts, hats, and other branded products to their fans. The sale revenue generated from merchandise goes directly to the creator’s pocket.
Creators need to meet specific eligibility criteria, including having at least 10,000 subscribers, to access the merchandise shelf feature. The platform partners with various merchandise providers to simplify the process of selling and shipping products.
4. Channel Memberships
Channel memberships offer an exclusive experience to a creator’s most dedicated fans. Eligible channels can offer paid channel memberships at different price points, providing perks like custom badges, exclusive content, and live chats. The revenue generated from channel memberships is shared between the creator and YouTube.
Creators must meet specific requirements, including having more than 30,000 subscribers, to unlock the channel memberships feature. This feature allows creators to establish a closer connection with their audience and provide them with additional value.
5. Super Chat and Super Stickers
Super Chat and Super Stickers are features introduced by YouTube to help creators monetize their live streams. Viewers can purchase Super Chats or Super Stickers to have their messages highlighted during a live chat or live stream. Creators receive a share of the revenue generated from these purchases.
These features not only allow fans to support their favorite creators but also provide a way for creators to engage directly with their audience during live streaming events.
6. YouTube Premium Revenue
Creators can earn a share of YouTube Premium revenue when their content is watched by YouTube Premium subscribers. YouTube Premium is a paid subscription service that offers ad-free access to videos, background playback, and exclusive content.
This provides creators with an additional stream of revenue and an opportunity to reach a broader audience. The amount earned through YouTube Premium revenue is based on factors like watch time and engagement on the creator’s content.
7. Crowdfunding through Patreon
Patreon, a popular crowdfunding platform, enables creators to receive recurring payments from their fans. Creators can offer various membership levels with exclusive rewards and content to their patrons. This can be a valuable source of income for creators with dedicated and supportive fan bases.
By utilizing Patreon, creators can offer additional perks and exclusive content to their fans beyond what is available on YouTube. It provides creators with more control over their revenue streams and enhances the connection with their audience.
8. Fan Funding through YouTube
Fan Funding, also known as YouTube’s “Support” feature, allows viewers to make voluntary payments to their favorite creators. Creators can enable this feature on their channel, giving fans the option to contribute funds during live chats or directly on their uploaded videos.
While Fan Funding may not be as widely used as other monetization options, it can still serve as an additional revenue stream for creators who have a supportive fan base.
9. Royalties from Music and Covers
Creators who produce original music or covers can earn royalties through YouTube’s Content ID system. Content ID is a sophisticated technology that identifies copyrighted music in videos and allows creators to monetize them by leveraging licensing agreements.
To benefit from this option, creators need to ensure that their content complies with copyright laws and properly attribute the music they use. Registering music with performing rights organizations can also help in collecting royalties from the usage of their content.
10. Affiliate Marketing
Creators can partner with companies and promote their products through affiliate marketing. By including affiliate links in their videos or video descriptions, creators can earn a commission for each sale generated through their referral.
However, it’s important for creators to disclose their participation in affiliate marketing and ensure that the promoted products align with their audience’s interests and preferences. Maintaining authenticity and transparency is crucial in establishing trust with viewers.
11. Brand Partnerships and Sponsorships
Aside from sponsored content, creators can explore brand partnerships and sponsorships to further monetize their channels. This involves collaborating with brands for sponsored events, product placements, and endorsements.
Brands often approach creators directly or through influencer marketing platforms to negotiate terms and compensation for such partnerships. Establishing mutually beneficial relationships with reputable brands can provide creators with substantial income opportunities.
12. Licensing Your Content
Creators who produce high-quality and unique videos can license their content to media outlets, production houses, or other platforms. This allows them to earn money through one-time payments or recurring royalties from the usage of their content.
Licensing agreements can be negotiated independently or through licensing agencies that connect creators with potential buyers. This option is particularly suitable for creators with niche or viral content that attracts wider attention.
13. Offering Online Courses or Workshops
If you have knowledge or expertise in a particular field, you can create and sell online courses or workshops to monetize your YouTube channel. Whether it’s teaching a musical instrument, providing photography tips, or offering fitness training, online courses can be a valuable source of income.
Platforms like Udemy, Teachable, and Skillshare allow creators to create and sell their courses online. By leveraging your YouTube presence and demonstrating your expertise, you can attract an audience interested in your online courses.
14. Book Deals and Publishing
Building a successful YouTube channel can open doors to traditional media opportunities like book deals and publishing. Creators can leverage their online presence and loyal fan base to secure publishing deals for their books or collaborate with publishers on related projects.
Writing books or e-books not only provides additional revenue but also expands the creator’s brand beyond the YouTube platform. It allows them to establish themselves as experts in their field and diversify their income streams.
15. Consulting or Speaking Engagements
Creators who have established themselves as authorities in their niche can monetize their expertise through consulting or speaking engagements. Companies, organizations, or event organizers may hire creators to provide insights, advice, or deliver speeches related to their field of expertise.
By leveraging their YouTube channel as a portfolio of their work, creators can showcase their knowledge and attract opportunities for consulting or speaking engagements. This can provide a significant source of revenue outside of the YouTube platform.
In conclusion, YouTube provides numerous monetization opportunities for content creators to earn money in 2018. From the YouTube Partner Program to brand partnerships, merchandise sales to consulting engagements, creators can diversify their income streams and turn their passion into a viable career.
References:
- YouTube Help Center. “Monetization Basics.”
- YouTube Help Center. “Merchandise Shelf FAQ.”
- Patreon Help Center. “About Patreon.”
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