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
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