Creating a killer video is only half the battle; the other half? Getting people actually to click on it. You could have Oscar-worthy content, but if your title sounds like a PowerPoint presentation from 1997, no one's hitting that "Play" button. Worse still, they might not subscribe, meaning you've lost them forever—cue dramatic music.
So how do you craft video titles that are irresistible click magnets and also magically convert viewers into lifelong subscribers? In this blog, we’re diving into that sweet spot between attention-grabbing and subscriber-converting titles.
Why Video Titles Matter More Than You Think
Before we jump into the magic formula, let’s quickly address why your video title isn’t just a throwaway string of words. It’s your first (and possibly only) chance to convince someone to watch your content.
Think of your title as the digital equivalent of a book cover. Except, in the age of social media, you’ve got milliseconds to convince someone to click. Not to scare you or anything, but an average YouTube user sees about 500 million hours of videos uploaded every day! This is not the time to be shy with your titling game.
Here’s why a well-crafted title can:
- Attract Attention: A captivating title stops users from mindlessly scrolling.
- Boost SEO: Properly optimized titles can shoot your video up the rankings.
- Convert Views to Subscribers: A well-phrased title sets the right expectation, encouraging viewers to hit that subscribe button.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Video Title
Let’s break it down into digestible parts, shall we?
1. Keep It Short but Powerful
Ever heard the phrase “brevity is the soul of wit”? Well, it’s also the soul of a great video title. People have short attention spans, and if your title is longer than the actual video, you’ve already lost them. Keep it under 60 characters. In fact, YouTube will cut off any title longer than that, so aim for a snappy one-liner that packs a punch.
Example:
- Bad: "This is a Tutorial on How to Do Winged Eyeliner That Stays on for 12 Hours".
- Good: "12-Hour Winged Eyeliner Tutorial: No Smudge, No Stress".
The second title is not only shorter but also more engaging. It's like a little promise in title form—watch this video and your eyeliner won't abandon you by lunchtime.
2. Incorporate Keywords Naturally
SEO might sound like some intimidating, nerdy jargon, but fear not! It’s really just about using words that people are already searching for. YouTube (and Google) love relevant keywords, so sprinkle them into your titles like parmesan on spaghetti—enough to add flavor, but not too much that it overpowers the dish.
Start by finding the keywords your audience is typing into the search bar. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or TubeBuddy to scout out trending terms. Then, weave those keywords into your titles naturally. No keyword stuffing allowed, or you’ll end up sounding like a bot.
Example:
- Bad: "Best Yoga Routine Yoga Routine Yoga Routine".
- Good: "Best Yoga Routine for Beginners: Flexibility in 10 Minutes!".
Notice the keyword “Yoga Routine” is there, but it doesn’t feel like spam.
3. Create a Sense of Urgency or Curiosity
Titles that create a sense of urgency or pique curiosity get people clicking faster than a limited-time sale on Black Friday. This doesn’t mean you have to go full-on clickbait (no one wants to feel duped), but adding a bit of intrigue can do wonders.
Use phrases like:
- “You Won’t Believe…”
- “The Secret to…”
- “Everything You Need to Know…”
These kinds of titles promise to solve a problem, answer a burning question, or deliver something special.
Example:
- Bad: "Basic Home Workout".
- Good: "The Secret to Getting Fit at Home with This 10-Minute Workout".
The latter makes you curious: What secret? Do I really only need 10 minutes? Your viewers want answers—and fast.
4. Use Numbers to Make It Specific
If Buzzfeed taught us anything, it’s that people love lists. Numbers give your title specificity, which adds credibility. A title that says “5 Ways to…” feels more structured and actionable than one that says “Ways to…”. Viewers feel reassured knowing exactly what they’re getting into.
Example:
- Bad: "How to Make Pancakes".
- Good: "5 Foolproof Steps to Make Fluffy Pancakes Every Time".
The second one promises five clear steps—something a pancake newbie can follow without feeling overwhelmed.
5. Use Power Words
Power words are the cinnamon to your video title latte—they spice things up. Words like “Epic,” “Proven,” “Insane, and “Mind-Blowing” add emotion and excitement. These words can make a regular video title stand out in a sea of blandness.
Example:
- Bad: "How to Improve Your Photography".
- Good: "Proven Tips for Epic Photography Skills You Need to Know!".
Now, instead of just “improving” photography, your viewers are learning epic, proven tips. Who could resist?
6. Use Personal Pronouns
Adding personal pronouns like “You” or “Your” to your title makes the viewer feel like you’re talking directly to them. Personalization is key when trying to engage an audience. Plus, it builds an instant connection between you and the viewer.
Example:
- Bad: "Ways to Get More Instagram Followers".
- Good: "How You Can Get More Instagram Followers in 7 Days".
That little “you” changes the whole tone, making the title feel more relatable and action-oriented.
Turning Clicks into Subscribers
Alright, you've got your catchy title, but how do you get people to hit that precious subscribe button after they’ve clicked?
Here’s the secret: Deliver on the Promise. Your title sets an expectation, and if your content doesn’t deliver, viewers will be out the door faster than you can say “subscribe.”
- Engage Immediately: Start your video strong. The first 10 seconds matter, so reference the title and assure the viewer they’ve clicked on the right video.
- Ask for the Subscribe (Nicely!): Don’t be shy about asking for subscribers, but do it in a friendly, non-pushy way. Mention why subscribing benefits them (exclusive content, insider tips, etc.).
- Give Them Value: The more value you provide, the more likely viewers will stick around for future content. Hook them with useful info or entertaining content, and they’ll keep coming back for more.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overhyping Titles: Clickbait may get clicks, but it won’t get you subscribers if the video doesn’t deliver.
- Too Many Keywords: Stuffing your title with every possible keyword makes it look spammy and hard to read.
- Being Vague: Avoid titles that are too broad or generic. Specificity wins clicks and subscribers.
Now that you’re armed with the secret sauce to creating video titles that convert views into subscribers, here’s the good news: Viewtiful Day can help you take it to the next level. If you need some help with your likes, subscribers, followers, views or comments, Viewtiful Day provides expert services tailored to your needs.
With their help, you’ll also turn casual viewers into loyal subscribers faster than you can say "Click here!" Ready to transform your content game? It's a viewtiful day to get started!
Author by Roxana A. Sosa
Roxana A. Sosa, a talented writer, blogger, and translator, brings eight years of content creation experience to our team at Viewtiful Day. Specializing in blogs and articles on Marketing, Social Media, and Technology, among other areas, Roxana guides readers through the digital world with clarity and charm. Fluent in both English and Spanish, her work appeals to audiences across the globe. When not crafting compelling content, Roxana dedicates her time to rescuing street puppies and mastering new languages. With Roxana’s expertise, you can navigate the digital landscape with ease, enriched by her insightful writing and her warm, humorous touch.