Thursday 28 June 2012

YouTube as a Marketing Tool

Video-sharing websites were virtually nonexistent until YouTube exploded onto the scenes in 2005. Ever since debuting, millions of users have started using the website to connect with family, friends, and more recently, customers, clients, and readers.

Nearly all big name companies have Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube accounts that allow the company to better relate to their fan base while attracting new customers. For example, one of the most popular YouTube company channels is Home Depot. While the company itself sells home improvement and construction products, the YouTube channel serves as a 'How-To' tutorial to help better guide customers on the proper way to fix or remodel their homes.


Many non-customers take note of how simple the video instructions are, and see that Home Depot has all the products needed. Since the video has provided the potential customer with new knowledge, the individual is more likely to remember Home Depot at a later date when their services are needed. This helps to bring in even more customers, all by simply uploading a few short videos. 

Increasing Traffic to Websites

The same tactics can be used for anyone who is looking to increase traffic to their website. Creating a video blog (vlog) means that new readers will stumble across the video. Website owners can then direct the viewer to their website by mentioning the name at the end of the video. If that isn't enough to bring in traffic, a link can also be added to the description of the video for easy access. 

YouTube also offers a 'subscribe' option which viewers can use if they would like to follow the videos on a long-term basis. This option will alert subscribers too all future videos so they can remain up-to-date on the events regarding the website. Since all vlogs tell a story, users are far more likely to come back wanting more. This leads to long-term steady traffic.


AdSense Earnings

Also Read - How To Get Approved For Adsense

Once a YouTube video has earned enough views, website owners can begin making a passive income from their channel. This is done through a partnership with Google AdSense and YouTube. In order to qualify, a video must be a completely original production. This means that all vlogs qualify as long as no copyrighted music or other content is included.


If the user accepts the agreement, a small advertisement will be placed on the bottom of the YouTube video. These advertisements are usually related to the video, though in some cases they may be complete random. Each time that the advertisement is clicked, the video owner will be paid a small cut of the profit.

Each click the advertisements receive only pays a few cents, but if the YouTube channel is popular, this can add up significantly over time. There been several instances where a single video goes viral and the uploader receives several thousand dollars due to AdSense. While this isn't typical, a large fan base will provide a steady income over a long period of time. Since Google AdSense never expires, users will continue to earn money as long as their video is being viewed. 

While YouTube is an enjoyable place to watch videos, it's also a unique marketing tool which can lead to long-term traffic and a steady income. Since uploading a video only takes a few minutes, all website owners who are looking to increase their fan base should create their own channel and start advertising. 



Author: JR Olson write on behalf of accountant.org who can manage your business expenses while you reap the benefits of YouTube marketing.
Gautham On Google+

Get free daily email updates!

Follow us!





Meet the Author

Gautham A S

Gautham A S is a personal tech columnist and blogging expert at TechGau.Org, one of the leading Tech, How-To and Blogging Tips blogs