The ultimate guide to growing your YouTube channel in 2024
Are you looking to skyrocket your YouTube channel’s growth this year? You’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through proven strategies to increase your views, subscribers, and overall channel success on YouTube in 2024.
At IncRev, we’ve helped countless clients achieve exponential growth on YouTube through data-driven tactics and expert optimization. Now, we’re sharing our insider knowledge to help you take your channel to the next level. Let’s dive in!
YouTube channel growth strategies 2024: Updated for 2025 trends
If you’re searching for the best YouTube channel growth strategies for 2024, you need to understand how the platform has evolved heading into 2025. According to recent YouTube algorithm analysis, the platform now prioritizes viewer satisfaction signals like 50%+ watch time and discovery through Shorts, with an estimated 170 million potential users shifting from TikTok in 2025.
The most effective YouTube growth strategy 2024 combines consistency, optimization, and strategic content formats. Our YouTube growth tips 2024 focus on leveraging both long-form and short-form content to maximize your reach and engagement across different audience segments.
Leveraging YouTube Shorts in your 2024 growth plan
One of the biggest YouTube channel growth tips 2024 is to prioritize Shorts alongside your traditional content. YouTube Shorts have become a critical discovery tool, allowing new viewers to find your channel and funnel them to your long-form videos. Here’s how to integrate Shorts effectively:
- Create teaser Shorts from your long-form content to drive traffic to full videos
- Post Shorts consistently – aim for 3-5 per week to maintain visibility in the Shorts feed
- Use strong hooks in the first 2 seconds to stop scrolling and capture attention
- Add clear CTAs directing viewers to your channel or specific long-form videos
- Optimize for mobile viewing with vertical format and readable on-screen text
1. Find untapped video keywords
Keyword research is absolutely crucial for YouTube success. The right keywords can make or break your video’s performance. According to a step-by-step YouTube growth guide, targeting low-competition keywords and using AI tools for ideation can yield 2x subscriber growth in 90 days. Here’s how to find gold-mine keywords:
Start with seed keywords
Begin by brainstorming broad topics in your niche. For example, if you’re in digital marketing, seed keywords might include:
- Social media strategy
- Content marketing tips
- SEO basics
- Email marketing tactics
Use YouTube Suggest
Take those seed keywords and plug them into YouTube’s search bar. The auto-suggested results are a goldmine of long-tail keyword ideas. You can also use tools like KeywordTool.io to scale this process and generate hundreds of keyword ideas.
Evaluate competition
Use tools like TubeBuddy or VidIQ to analyze the competition and search volume for your target keywords. Look for keywords with decent search volume but lower competition – these are your sweet spots.
2. Create longer videos optimized for watch time
YouTube’s algorithm heavily favors videos that keep viewers engaged for longer. Here are some tips to boost your Watch Time:
Aim for 10+ minute videos
Our research shows that longer videos (10+ minutes) tend to outperform shorter ones in YouTube’s search and suggested video results. Recent data from growth strategists indicates that videos between 12-18 minutes perform best for retention, with structured hooks and pattern interrupts boosting session time by up to 30%. Pack as much value as you can into a single video.
Hook viewers in the first 15 seconds
The opening of your video is critical. Cut out fluff and get straight to previewing the value viewers will get. Make those first 15 seconds count.
Use pattern interrupts
Keep viewers engaged by changing things up throughout your video. Use b-roll footage, on-screen graphics, animations, and different camera angles to maintain interest.
Script your videos
Planning your content in advance leads to tighter, more polished videos that viewers are likely to watch for longer. Create a detailed outline or full script before filming.
3. Optimize your YouTube video metadata
While content is king, don’t neglect your video’s metadata. Here’s how to optimize:
Craft compelling titles
Include your target keyword, but focus on writing click-worthy titles that clearly convey the benefit to viewers. Avoid clickbait – deliver on your title’s promise.
Write detailed descriptions
YouTube recommends using 1-2 paragraphs to describe your video. Include your main keyword and related terms naturally throughout the description.
Use strategic tags
Include 2-3 tags with your exact target keyword, 2-3 related topic tags, and 1-2 broader category tags. This helps YouTube understand your video’s context.
4. Design eye-catching thumbnails
Your thumbnail is your video’s billboard. Make it pop with these tips:
Use high contrast
Make your thumbnail elements stand out with contrasting colors. Add borders between text and images for extra pop.
Choose colors that stand out
Since YouTube’s interface is primarily red, white, and black, use colors that contrast with these in your thumbnails to catch viewers’ eyes.
5. Leverage playlists to boost watch time
Playlists are an often overlooked tool for increasing views and Session Time on YouTube. According to proven playlist strategies for engagement, playlists can increase session time by 20-50%, with themed organization driving binge-watching behavior. Here’s why they’re important:
Increase session time
Playlists auto-play the next video, keeping viewers on your channel longer. This sends positive signals to YouTube’s algorithm.
Organize your content
Create themed playlists to make it easy for viewers to binge-watch related content on your channel.
6. Promote your videos strategically
Don’t just upload and hope for the best. Give your videos a boost:
Share on social media
Post teasers or clips on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram to drive traffic to your full video. According to 2025 YouTube trends for creators, cross-promotion via collaborations can tap 30% new audience reach, especially in 2025 with declining TikTok usage.
Email your subscribers
Let your email list know when you publish new videos. They’re already interested in your content and likely to watch.
Collaborate with other creators
Partner with complementary channels for cross-promotion and to tap into new audiences.
7. Convert viewers to subscribers
Growing your subscriber base is crucial for long-term channel success:
Use end screens
Add a subscribe button to your end screen. Research from growth optimization experts shows that end-screen CTAs convert 15-25% better when personalized to viewer pain points. Viewers who make it to the end of your video are primed to subscribe.
Verbal call-to-action
Don’t be shy – ask viewers to subscribe in your video. Explain the value they’ll get by subscribing to your channel.
Proven strategies to increase YouTube views 2024: Algorithm optimization focus
Many creators ask, “how to get more views on YouTube 2024 with proven strategies?” The answer lies in understanding and optimizing for the 2024-2025 algorithm changes. These proven strategies to increase YouTube views 2024 with algorithm optimization focus on the signals YouTube values most.
Understanding 2024 algorithm priorities
The YouTube algorithm in 2024 prioritizes several key engagement signals:
- Click-through rate (CTR) – Your thumbnail and title must compel clicks
- Average view duration – Keep viewers watching as long as possible
- Engagement rate – Likes, comments, shares, and saves all matter
- Session time – How long viewers stay on YouTube after watching your video
- Velocity – How quickly your video gains views and engagement after publishing
Boosting traffic to your YouTube channel in 2024
To increase traffic to your YouTube channel, combine on-platform optimization with strategic off-platform promotion. Here’s a comprehensive checklist:
| Strategy | Implementation | Expected Impact |
|---|---|---|
| SEO-optimized descriptions | Include target keywords in first 2 sentences, add timestamps, relevant links | Better search visibility |
| Strategic posting schedule | Publish when your audience is most active (check YouTube Analytics) | Higher initial velocity |
| Community engagement | Respond to comments within first hour, pin top comment, heart responses | Increased engagement signals |
| Cross-platform promotion | Share clips on TikTok, Instagram Reels, LinkedIn with link to full video | 20-40% traffic boost |
| Collaboration outreach | Partner with 2-3 similar-sized channels monthly | Access to new audiences |
YouTube subscriber growth strategies 2024: From views to loyal subscribers
YouTube subscriber growth strategies 2024 require a different approach than simply generating views. Converting casual viewers into loyal subscribers demands strategic CTAs, consistent value delivery, and community building.
Building a subscriber conversion funnel
Create a systematic approach to turn viewers into subscribers:
- First-time viewer hook: Deliver immediate value in your intro and promise more in future videos
- Mid-roll reminder: Around the 40-50% mark, briefly mention subscribing for similar content
- End-screen optimization: Use personalized CTAs that speak to viewer pain points
- Community tab engagement: Post polls, updates, and behind-the-scenes content to subscribers
- Subscriber-only perks: Offer early access, exclusive content, or badges to incentivize subscriptions
Measuring subscriber quality over quantity
Focus on these metrics to ensure you’re building an engaged subscriber base:
- Subscriber watch time ratio (how much your subscribers watch vs. non-subscribers)
- Notification bell activation rate
- Returning viewer percentage
- Comment participation from subscribers
- Subscriber retention rate month-over-month
Analytics and iteration: Tracking your 2024 growth progress
How to grow your YouTube channel 2024 requires consistent data analysis and refinement. YouTube Studio provides powerful analytics tools that most creators underutilize.
Key metrics to monitor weekly
Track these metrics in YouTube Studio to guide your content strategy:
- Impressions and CTR: Are your thumbnails and titles compelling enough?
- Average view duration: Where do viewers drop off? Improve those sections
- Traffic sources: Which discovery methods drive the most engaged viewers?
- Audience retention graph: Identify patterns in viewer engagement across videos
- Top-performing content: Double down on topics and formats that resonate
A/B testing for optimization
Systematically test elements to improve performance:
- Create 2-3 thumbnail variations and compare CTR in the first 48 hours
- Test different intro lengths (5 seconds vs. 15 seconds vs. 30 seconds)
- Experiment with video lengths for different content types
- Try different CTA placements and messaging
- Test publishing times to find your optimal schedule
Bonus: Rank your videos in Google search
Tap into Google’s massive search volume by optimizing your videos to appear in Google search results:
Target video-friendly keywords
Look for keywords that already show video results in Google. These indicate Google wants to show videos for that query.
Optimize video SEO
If your video performs well on YouTube, it has a better chance of ranking in Google. Focus on creating high-quality, relevant content for your target keywords.
Quick setup: How to create a YouTube channel on a tablet
For beginners wondering how to create a YouTube channel on a tablet, the process is straightforward:
- Open the YouTube app on your tablet and sign in with your Google account
- Tap your profile icon in the top-right corner
- Select “Your channel” from the dropdown menu
- Tap “Create channel” and follow the prompts
- Enter your channel name and customize your profile picture
- Add a channel description explaining what viewers can expect
- Navigate to YouTube Studio (desktop site recommended for full setup)
- Complete your channel art, banner, and channel trailer
Conclusion
Growing a YouTube channel takes time, effort, and strategy. By implementing these proven tactics, you’ll be well on your way to YouTube success in 2024. Remember, consistency is key – keep creating valuable content and optimizing your approach based on your analytics.
Need expert help taking your YouTube channel to the next level? IncRev’s YouTube optimization services can help you unlock explosive growth through data-driven strategies and cutting-edge techniques. Contact us today to learn more!
Frequently asked questions
What are the best YouTube channel growth strategies for 2024?
The best YouTube channel growth strategies for 2024 combine consistent long-form content (12-18 minutes) with daily Shorts, strategic keyword targeting, algorithm-focused optimization for watch time and engagement signals, and cross-platform promotion. Leveraging YouTube’s 2024-2025 algorithm priorities like 50%+ watch time retention and Shorts discovery is essential for sustainable growth.
How can I use proven strategies to increase YouTube views in 2024, including algorithm optimization?
To increase YouTube views with algorithm optimization in 2024, focus on improving your CTR through compelling thumbnails and titles, maximizing average view duration with strong hooks and pattern interrupts, boosting engagement through community interaction, and optimizing session time with strategic playlists. Publish consistently at times when your audience is most active to maximize initial velocity.
What YouTube subscriber growth strategies work in 2024?
Effective YouTube subscriber growth strategies 2024 include personalized end-screen CTAs that convert 15-25% better when addressing viewer pain points, strategic mid-roll subscription reminders, delivering consistent value that justifies subscription, community tab engagement, and subscriber-only perks. Focus on subscriber quality metrics like watch time ratio and notification bell activation rather than just subscriber count.
How often should I post new videos to grow my channel?
Quality trumps quantity on YouTube. Aim for 1-2 high-quality videos per week rather than rushing to post daily. Consistency is more important than frequency. Complement your long-form content with 3-5 Shorts per week to maintain visibility in both feeds and maximize discovery opportunities.
What’s the ideal length for a YouTube video in 2024?
While it varies by niche, data shows videos 12-18 minutes long tend to perform best for retention and engagement. Focus on delivering value rather than hitting a specific length. Different content types may require different durations – tutorials can be longer while quick tips work better at 6-8 minutes.
How long does it take to grow a YouTube channel?
Growing a channel takes time and persistence. Most creators see significant growth after 6-12 months of consistent, strategic uploading. Focus on incremental improvements rather than overnight success. Launching with 3 long-form videos and maintaining consistent posting can accelerate initial growth in the first 90 days.
Should I delete old videos that aren’t performing well?
In most cases, no. Old videos can still drive traffic and provide context for your channel’s evolution. Instead, focus on creating better content moving forward and updating old videos if relevant. Low-performing videos don’t hurt your channel – they simply don’t contribute as much to growth.
How important are YouTube Shorts for channel growth?
Shorts are critical for channel growth in 2024-2025. They serve as a powerful discovery tool to funnel new viewers to your long-form content. While Shorts shouldn’t be your only strategy, they complement traditional content effectively. Aim to post 3-5 Shorts weekly alongside your regular uploads to maximize reach across both formats.
How to increase traffic to a YouTube channel?
To increase traffic to your YouTube channel, combine on-platform SEO optimization (keywords, descriptions, tags) with off-platform promotion across social media, email marketing, and collaborations. Focus on improving your impressions and CTR, optimizing for suggested videos and browse features, and leveraging cross-platform promotion where 30% of new audience reach often comes from strategic collaborations.
How to create a YouTube channel on a tablet?
To create a YouTube channel on a tablet, open the YouTube app, sign in with your Google account, tap your profile icon, select “Your channel,” then tap “Create channel.” Follow the prompts to set up your channel name and profile. While basic setup works on tablets, access YouTube Studio through a desktop browser for full customization, analytics, and advanced settings.
