On YouTube, your title and thumbnail play a crucial role in grabbing attention.
It's often underestimated, but crafting compelling video titles and thumbnails is key to attracting a broad audience. Successful content hinges on how your information is packaged.
Successful YouTubers often package their videos with a promise of value, a subtle yet powerful message that viewers will gain something valuable from your video. It sets the expectation of receiving entertainment, education, life advice, or a unique experience not easily found elsewhere. Effective videos establish this promise early on, starting with the thumbnail and title on YouTube or the first 3 seconds of short form content.
Take, for example, the title "8 Money Tips For Teenagers To Become Millionaires" paired with a compelling thumbnail.
8 Money Tips
The title's promise of specific insights for teenagers to achieve millionaire status intrigues the viewer, while the thumbnail's clear contrast visually conveys actionable advice. This dynamic duo sets clear expectations and entices the audience to discover valuable information.
When crafting titles and thumbnails for your own content, remember these guidelines:
- Choose a title that launches the video's journey, not just names the content.
- Create an intriguing thumbnail that opens a curiosity gap: giving viewer something they understand, but also something they don’t
- Include high contrasting visuals to initially grab attention
- Avoid duplicating the video title on the thumbnail - no need for repetition.
- Human faces in thumbnails tend to attract viewers, so ensure any text doesn't cover a face.
In the end, no matter how great your content is, if your thumbnail and title aren’t clicked on, no one will watch.
They're like the welcoming committee for your content, inviting viewers to dive into the value you offer. Remember, it's not just about getting attention, but about delivering engaging content that matters. When you nail these parts, you're creating a space where your content doesn't just find an audience, it connects with them, driving clicks, views, and a loyal fan base.
Want help with your social media strategy? Connect 1-on-1 with Hook Point's team here to see if we are the right fit to work together.
