In case you haven’t heard, YouTube Stories exist and for a while now.
Late in 2018, YouTube launched its own version of Stories, allowing creators with at least 10,000 subscribers to access the new feature.
How Does YouTube Stories Work?
First launched by Snapchat, Stories—with its 24-hour disappearing post concept, creative filters, and interesting stickers—was so well received that Facebook and Instagram later integrated the feature within their respective apps.
YouTube is the latest network to adopt the feature, which it first announced under the name “YouTube Reels.” However, the network decided against it, the reason being users are already accustomed to the term “Stories.”
Its version of Stories works almost the same as that of Snapchat, Facebook, and Instagram where YouTubers can record and share pictures and videos of up to 15 seconds long as well as use effects like filters, stickers, text, and music. However, contrary to the 24-hour validity, YouTube Stories are accessible on the mobile app for up to seven days—lengthening the exposure of the content.
Why You Should Care About YouTube Stories
Although it can be assumed that YouTube Stories are intended exclusively for the platform’s creator and influencer community, it can also prove valuable to brands and marketers managing a YouTube channel with a sizeable following.
Much like other Stories, the idea behind YouTube Stories is to offer you a new way to engage with your subscriber and give them an insider look into everyday life in your business. It allows you to break out from the traditional, perfectly-staged videos and in return, convey a more authentic and humanised image of your brand. The focus should be less on perfection and more on getting in touch with your subscribers on an emotional level.
How to Create YouTube Stories
If you’re ready to get started, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to publish your first YouTube Story:
- Open the YouTube app on your mobile device and tap on the camera icon on the upper right side of the navigation bar.
- Select the Story Icon to record a story. From here, you can take a photo, record a new video, or upload a photo/video from your mobile device.
- Add effects like text, music, filter or stickers to your Story then upload.
Users don’t have to subscribe to your channel to view your Stories as it will appear on your home page as well as in the “Up Next” list found below your video being watched.
Youtube announced that its Stories have the same comment moderation tools available for regular video content. Users can comment on your Stories and you can respond directly to them. They can also rate them a thumbs up, thumbs down, or a heart.
How to Use YouTube Stories as Part of Your Marketing Strategy
There are no limits as to how you’d include YouTube Stories as part of your digital marketing strategy and the same goes to the ways to spark interest in your brand through Stories. The following are some video ideas you can use:
Product Launch: When you’re launching new products or services, you can share the exciting news through a YouTube Story. This is a great place to share breaking news as it happens.
Behind the Scene: With the help of YouTube Stories, you can give users exclusive insights into what goes on behind the curtain. It inspires authenticity and trust.
Tutorials: Offer valuable information to your viewers through video tutorials. A great example is how to make a specific product that’s related to your brand.
Teaser: Build excitement around your new products through small teasers and hints you can publish on your Stories. It will make users follow your updates to stay on the loop.
Promos and Discounts: Make use of the limited lifetime of your Stories by advertising exclusive offers and discounts for your viewers.
Takeovers: An interesting content, you can partner with an influencer to take over your channel for a while and fill it with their own content.
While YouTube Story is still in the early stages, it does seem to offer a promising opportunity to build an engaged community in the platform. It holds particularly true if video content is part of your marketing strategy.
If you have access to YouTube Stories, make sure to use the tips above to familiarise yourself with creating, managing, and maximising the potentials of YouTube Stories. While at it, make sure that your YouTube strategies are in line with your overall marketing methods. You can always ask a digital marketing agency like OOm for help!
Does your YouTube channel already have YouTube Stories? How’s the experience so far? Share your thoughts by leaving a comment!
