How to Get Verified on YouTube: A Complete Guide
YouTube is one of the biggest video-sharing platforms globally, with billions of users and creators. With such a significant following, it is no wonder that YouTube has put in place a verification system to help viewers identify genuine creators. Verification is not only essential for authenticity purposes, but it also offers a host of benefits to verified YouTubers. In this article, we will delve into how to get verified on YouTube and the benefits of becoming a verified YouTuber.
The Importance of a Complete and Consistent YouTube Channel
Before we delve into the verification process, it is crucial to understand that having a complete and consistent YouTube channel will go a long way in helping you gain verification. Here are some critical factors to consider:
Verified Email and Branding
One of the first steps to take towards YouTube verification is to ensure that your email is verified and your channel is branded. A branded channel ensures that your channel is recognizable and creates a sense of identity for your viewers.
Consistent Content and Niche
In addition to branding, having consistent content that fits your niche is crucial. Viewers will expect you to create and upload content pertaining to your area of interest. Having a defined niche ensures that your subscribers know what to expect, which can help increase engagement.
Importance of Engagement
Engagement is a crucial factor in increasing your subscribers and views. Responding to comments and creating content that sparks conversation can help to keep your viewers engaged and improve your channel’s engagement rate.
Tips for Increasing Subscribers and Views
Now that we’ve covered the importance of a complete and consistent channel, here are some tips for increasing your subscribers and views on YouTube:
Creating Shareable Content
One of the most effective ways of increasing your subscribers and views is to create shareable content. Shareable content is content that resonates with your viewers and leaves a lasting impression. High-quality, engaging videos can help to increase your chances of shares on social media platforms.
Promoting Your Channel on Social Media
Social media platforms provide a great opportunity to promote your channel and increase your viewership. Sharing your videos on platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn helps to reach a broader audience, leading to more views and subscribers.
Networking and Collaborations
You can also increase your subscribers by networking and collaborating with other YouTubers in your niche. Collaborating on videos exposes you to your collaborator’s audience while also giving your viewers fresh content.
Utilizing YouTube’s Analytics
YouTube’s Analytics provides valuable insights into your channel’s performance. From identifying which videos perform better than others to understanding your audience’s demographics, Analytics provides you with a wealth of information to help you tweak your strategy accordingly.
Step-by-Step Guide on Verification Process
Eligibility Requirements
The first step towards YouTube verification is ensuring that you are eligible. A YouTuber must meet the following requirements before applying for verification:
- The channel must have at least 100,000 subscribers
- The channel must meet YouTube’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Service
- The channel must have a complete and consistent YouTube profile
Types of Verification Badges
After meeting the eligibility requirements, you’ll need to decide which verification badge to apply for. There are two types of verification badges:
- Gray Badge: This badge is for channels with 100,000 subscribers or more and is intended for companies and brands.
- Red Badge: This badge is for channels with over 1 million subscribers and is intended for celebrities, public figures, and creators.
Documentation Needed
You will be required to provide documentation to prove that you are eligible for verification. The following documents are required:
- Business documents (for channels applying for a gray badge)
- Government-issued ID (for channels applying for a red badge)
Verification Timeline
The verification process can take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the volume received by YouTube. However, once approved, you will receive a notification and a verification badge will appear next to your channel name.
The Benefits of Being a Verified YouTuber
Verified YouTubers enjoy several benefits, including:
Monetization Opportunities
Verification opens doors for creators to monetize their content through YouTube’s Partner Program. Youtube partners can earn money through ads, merchandise sales, channel memberships, and non-advertising revenue streams.
Community Features
Verified YouTubers can access exclusive community features, such as custom channel URLs, custom thumbnails, and members-only live streams.
Higher Search Ranking
YouTube verification helps your channel rank higher in YouTube’s search results, making it easier for viewers to find your channel. Verification also enhances your channel’s credibility, giving your viewers the confidence that they are watching genuine content.
Strategies for Maintaining Verified Status
Avoiding Spam and Inappropriate Content
Avoiding spam and inappropriate content is crucial in maintaining verification status. YouTube has strict policies that prohibit spam, misleading metadata, and inappropriate content. Violating these policies may result in demonetization, suspension or termination of your channel.
Understanding YouTube’s Policies
To maintain verification status, it is crucial to stay informed of YouTube’s policies and changes. YouTube routinely updates its policies to ensure that creators adhere to its terms of service.
Consistency in Content Quality
Consistency in content quality ensures that your viewers have a predictable and enjoyable experience. Maintaining a consistent schedule of uploads helps to keep your subscribers engaged, leading to higher retention rates.
Real-life examples of YouTubers who have achieved verification
Their Journeys and Challenges
Many YouTubers have successfully achieved verification status. One such YouTuber is Lilly Singh, popularly known as “Superwoman.” She started as a comedian, and through consistent and engaging content, she amassed over 14 million subscribers, earning her verification badge.
Tips for Aspiring Creators
For aspiring creators, the key is to focus on creating high-quality content that resonates with your viewers. Collaborating with other YouTubers in your niche and promoting your content on social media can provide significant exposure for your channel.
Additional Tips and Resources for Building a Successful YouTube Presence
In addition to the tips shared in this article, here are some additional resources that can help improve your YouTube presence:
Collaborations and Networking
Collaborating with other YouTubers in your niche, attending conferences, and networking events can help to increase your exposure and improve your channel’s growth.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
SEO is crucial in improving your channel’s search engine ranking. Optimizing your titles, tags, and descriptions helps to improve your visibility in search results, making it easier for viewers to find your content.
Staying up-to-date with Industry Changes
Stay informed on industry news and changes to YouTube’s policies. Joining groups and communities focused on YouTube can help you stay up-to-date on YouTube-related news and changes.
Conclusion
YouTube verification is an essential step for creators looking to increase their visibility and credibility. By following the tips shared in this article, you can increase your chances of becoming a verified YouTuber. It is crucial to maintain consistency in content quality and engagement rates to retain your verified status. Remember to stay informed of YouTube’s policies and industry changes to stay ahead. With these tips and resources, aspiring creators can build a successful YouTube presence.
