Tips and Strategies for Creating Effective YouTube Shorts

Tips on Creating Short-Form YouTube Video Shorts

People want accessible consumer content, that they can watch on the go. This has led to a trend in short-form video, with TikTok, Reels, and now YouTube Shorts!


The YouTube Shorts platform is only available in India and the United States, there are 15 billion daily views even though they have only launched the platform recently.


Like any of the other platforms, if you’re going to optimize your success and attract viewers, you need to implement effective strategies.

Keep Your Videos to an Appropriate Length

As you may be aware, consumers, attention spans are declining, which means, you have less of a chance to get their attention in a shorter amount of time. Make sure you keep your videos short and sweet!


  • Make sure your video is in the correct ratio for the platform so it works correctly when uploaded.
  • Start with an attention-grabbing line. Follow it up with the story to keep the viewer watching the entire video.
  • Create thumbnails to stand out on YouTube. Create a captivating thumbnail to get some attention that is related to your video,
  • Break your longer topic into small sections and create a series of shorts.

Understand Your Target Audience

What Appeals to your audience? Some brands will use YouTube Shorts as how-to videos or for comedic purposes. You should have some idea of the tone that works for your brand.

Make that your starting point!


  • If your brand is new or you are just starting out creating this content, here are some tips to get you moving.
  • Think about who your target audience is.
  • What do you want to achieve with these videos, Make people laugh? Inspire people? Educate people? 
  • What do you expect the videos/content to do for you? Get followers or subscribers? Sell products or services?

Optimize the Titles of Your YouTube Shorts

Limit character use to 50-70.

Use appropriate hashtags in your descriptions. Include the hashtag #short so the system can recommend your videos to viewers.

Watching YouTube Shorts on a cellphone

Custom Thumbnails for Your Shorts

Select a frame from the video that represents the video.

Customize the look of the thumbnail image by changing the color, and adding text, shapes, and/or effects.

Download your new thumbnail image by clicking on “Download” in the lower right corner of your screen.

Repurpose Your Content

Short-form video content has become very popular and is increasing every day. Repurposing your video content can save you time and keeps your social media accounts updated.


  1. Share YouTube Shorts content on sites like Facebook or Twitter.
  2. Add your content on Instagram Reels.
  3. Write up a blog article based on your short video
Person writing on a calendar, May 2021, on a white desk with coffee, bow tie, and other office supplies.
By Blog Owner December 1, 2025
Enable paid appointments, add multiple staff, and streamline scheduling with NEKO360’s new Bookings Software. Contact us to activate it and get expert setup help.
NEKO Website Design and Digital Marketing Agency in Vermont logo over a landscape with trees. Celebrating 15th anniversary.
By Blog+ Owner November 25, 2025
A unified managed marketing program gives businesses one team, one strategy, and real results. Improve visibility, consistency, and growth with a coordinated plan.
Computer screen displaying a website with cityscape background, pencils, and design tools.
By Blog+ Owner November 20, 2025
A custom-built website boosts visibility, performance, and trust. Discover why a fast, secure, SEO-optimized site is one of the best investments for your business.
Person using smartphone, browsing social media.
By Blog+ Owner November 17, 2025
See why Vermont businesses trust NEKO for social media management that boosts performance, saves time, and keeps your brand message clear and consistent.
Person holding a phone with an AI graphic overlay, surrounded by digital icons.
By Blog+ Owner November 14, 2025
First impressions online matter. Learn how Northeast Kingdom Online (NEKO) helps with responsive design, fast load speeds, and modern UX.
Hand holding a phone displaying a dark webpage titled
November 6, 2025
Learn how to make your Vermont business searchable in ChatGPT with simple, local SEO steps from Northeast Kingdom Online (NEKO) — your trusted digital partner
Person in suit writing
By Blog+ Owner September 22, 2025
Discover why continuing social media management in your off-season keeps your brand visible, builds trust, and sets you up for a stronger busy season.
Laptop and smartphone on a wooden surface; the phone displays a plant image on its screen.
By Blog+ Owner September 11, 2025
Discover how AI in business drives growth, boosts efficiency, and transforms customer experience to fuel digital transformation.
September 10, 2025
See how AI helps small businesses save time by automating tasks, streamlining scheduling, creating reports, and improving customer support.
A woman is sitting at a table with her head on a laptop while holding a cell phone.
August 21, 2025
Is your VT business wasting marketing efforts? Discover the top 5 common mistakes & get actionable tips from NEKO to boost your online presence in 2025.
Show More