Growing a Small YouTube Channel (how to get lucky)

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“It’s not about the outcome. It’s about the process.” – John S. Rhodes

Staring at your YouTube channel and seeing little growth can be frustrating. You’ve invested time, energy, and creativity into crafting content you believe people will love, yet the views and subscribers just aren’t coming. The truth is, building a successful YouTube channel is achievable for anyone, but it requires the right strategies, persistence, and a touch of luck. The best part? That “luck” isn’t left to chance—it’s something you can create with consistent effort and proven techniques.

In this guide, we’ll dive into how to grow a small YouTube channel, inspired by insights shared by John S. Rhodes of the Rhodes Brothers. You’ll learn actionable strategies to increase your views, grow your audience, and build a loyal following. As Rhodes explains, “You don’t have to stress or worry about making each video perfect. Focus on creating, learning, and improving, and the growth will follow.”

Ready to unlock the secrets of growing your YouTube channel? Let’s get started!

TL;DR

• Consistency beats perfection: Focus on creating content regularly rather than obsessing over making every video flawless.
• Leverage YouTube’s tools: Use keyword research and analytics to create videos people are searching for.
• Proliferate content: The more videos you create, the higher your chances of one taking off.
• Focus on thumbnails and titles: First impressions matter. Your thumbnail and title should grab attention immediately.
• Inject positive energy: People connect with creators who are authentic, relatable, and optimistic.
• Study the competition: Analyze successful channels to understand what works and adapt it to your niche.
• Be patient: Growth takes time. Most successful channels took years to gain traction.
• Engage your audience: Respond to comments, ask questions, and build a community around your channel.

Step-by-Step Guide to Growing a Small YouTube Channel 

Starting and growing a YouTube channel may seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. The key is to focus on what makes you unique and build from there. Every creator has something valuable to share, and by following this guide, you can leverage your strengths, create engaging content, and grow your audience with intention and consistency.

• Start With What You Know

Every creator has a unique story, skill, or experience to share. The best way to grow your YouTube channel is to begin with what you already know or are passionate about. This not only makes the process enjoyable but also positions you as someone with credibility. As John S. Rhodes wisely said, “You already have something others want—your knowledge, your story, your experience.”

But how do you identify your unique value? Start by asking yourself what problems you can solve for your audience. Whether you’re sharing cooking tips, fitness advice, or gaming tutorials, the goal is to provide value in a way that resonates with viewers.

Actionable Steps

• Brainstorm Your Unique Value: Write down a list of topics or skills you know well. Think about questions people often ask you or problems you’ve solved in the past.
• Research Your Niche: Use the YouTube search bar to type in your topic and note the drop-down suggestions. These are real-time search queries people are actively looking for.
• Find Your Audience: Define who your content is for. Are you helping beginners learn a skill? Are you catering to hobbyists or experts? Knowing your audience helps guide your content strategy.

Examples and Tools

• Example: If you’re skilled in photography, you could create content like “How to Take Professional Photos with a Smartphone” or “Beginner’s Guide to Portrait Lighting.”
• Tool: TubeBuddy – This browser extension helps you conduct keyword research, analyze competition, and discover trending topics in your niche. Use the “Keyword Explorer” feature to refine your video ideas.

• Quantity Over Perfection

Many creators fall into the trap of waiting for everything to be perfect before uploading a video. The lighting, script, editing, and graphics must all align—or so they think. The truth? You can’t predict which videos will take off, and perfectionism often delays progress. John S. Rhodes observed that even channels now boasting hundreds of thousands of subscribers started with videos that barely reached 10 views.

The key is to focus on consistency. Each video you create is an opportunity to learn and grow. Over time, your skills will improve, and your audience will start to notice.

Pro Tip:

Treat your first 50 videos as practice. Use this time to refine your editing, storytelling, and audience engagement skills.

Actionable Steps

• Set a Schedule: Commit to uploading at least one video per week. Consistency helps build momentum and signals to the YouTube algorithm that your channel is active.
• Experiment with Formats: Try different types of content, such as tutorials, vlogs, or reviews, to see what resonates with your audience.
• Review Analytics: After posting a few videos, analyze your performance metrics in YouTube Studio to identify patterns. Focus on videos with higher watch times and engagement.

Examples and Tools

• Example: A cooking channel might test recipe tutorials, quick cooking hacks, or ingredient reviews to discover what their audience prefers.

• Tool: Notion – Use this project management app to plan your content calendar, brainstorm ideas, and track your progress.

• Nail Your Thumbnails and Titles

Your thumbnail and title are the first things viewers see—they’re your video’s “packaging.” A great video won’t get clicks if its thumbnail and title don’t grab attention. Think of them as your billboard on YouTube: they need to stand out and make people curious enough to click.

Tips for Thumbnails

• Use contrasting colors to make your visuals pop.
• Focus on the main idea of your video. For example, if your video is about budgeting, include an image of a wallet or dollar bills in the thumbnail.
• Add bold, concise text to highlight the benefit of watching your video (e.g., “Save $1,000 in 30 Days”).
• Avoid clutter—simplicity is key.

Tips for Titles

• Use numbers or lists (e.g., “10 Tips to Grow Your Channel”).
• Pose a question that sparks curiosity (e.g., “Are You Making These YouTube Mistakes?”).
• Include your main keyword naturally to improve searchability.

Examples and Tools

• Example: A fitness channel might use a thumbnail with a side-by-side “before and after” shot and a title like “How I Lost 20 lbs in 2 Months (No Gym Required).”
• Tool: Canva – This free design tool offers customizable templates for creating eye-catching thumbnails. Use the “YouTube Thumbnail” template to get started.

• Create Content People Are Searching For

YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world, and many users turn to it for solutions to their problems. To grow your channel, align your content with what people are actively searching for. This is where keyword research becomes your best friend.

Actionable Steps

• Use the YouTube Search Bar: Start typing your topic into the search bar and observe the auto-suggestions. These represent popular search queries.
• Competitor Analysis: Identify successful channels in your niche and analyze their top-performing videos. Take note of recurring themes or keywords.
• Optimize Your Metadata: Include relevant keywords in your video title, description, and tags to improve discoverability.

Examples and Tools

• Example: A tech channel could create tutorials on “How to Fix Common iPhone Issues” or reviews like “Best Budget Laptops in 2024.”
• Tool: Google Trends – Use this tool to identify trending topics in your niche. It’s particularly useful for seasonal content ideas.

• Engage With Your Audience

Building a loyal audience requires more than just posting videos. You need to foster a sense of community by engaging with your viewers. When people feel heard and valued, they’re more likely to stick around, share your content, and recommend your channel to others.

Actionable Steps

• Respond to Comments: Take the time to reply to your viewers’ comments. A simple “Thank you!” or thoughtful response can go a long way.
• Ask for Feedback: At the end of your videos, ask viewers what topics they’d like you to cover next.
• Create a Community Space: Consider creating a Facebook group, Discord server, or Patreon page where your audience can interact with you and each other.

Examples and Tools:

• Example: A beauty channel could host Q&A sessions where viewers submit their makeup questions.
• Tool: Hootsuite – Use this social media management tool to track comments and mentions across platforms so you never miss an opportunity to engage.

• Stay Positive and Authentic

People are drawn to creators who are genuine, relatable, and optimistic. According to John S. Rhodes, “People connect with creators who bring joy, enthusiasm, and authenticity to their videos.” Even if you’re not naturally outgoing, a little warmth and energy can make your content more engaging.

Pro Tip:

Don’t try to mimic someone else’s personality. Instead, focus on showcasing your unique traits and passions.

Examples:

• If you’re a calm and thoughtful person, lean into that by creating relaxing or meditative content.
• If you’re naturally energetic, channel that energy into upbeat, fast-paced videos.

• Learn From Data (But Don’t Obsess Over It)

YouTube Analytics provides invaluable insights into what’s working and what isn’t. By reviewing your data, you can refine your content strategy and focus on what resonates with your audience. However, don’t let low numbers discourage you early on—growth takes time.

Key Metrics to Track:

• Click-Through Rate (CTR): This measures how often viewers click on your video after seeing its thumbnail. A CTR above 5% is generally considered good.
• Watch Time: The total amount of time people spend watching your videos. Longer watch times signal quality content to YouTube.
• Audience Retention: This tracks how much of your video viewers watch before dropping off. Aim to keep viewers engaged for at least 50% of your video.

Examples and Tools:

• Example: If your audience retention drops off after the first 30 seconds, consider reworking your intros to grab attention faster.
• Tool: YouTube Studio – This built-in analytics platform helps you track performance metrics and identify trends in your content.

By following these steps, you’ll not only increase your chances of growing your YouTube channel but also build a foundation for long-term success. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination—so keep creating, keep learning, and enjoy the process!

Actionable Steps to Grow a Small YouTube Channel

Growing a small YouTube channel requires a combination of strategy, consistency, and patience. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, breaking the process into actionable steps can help you grow effectively. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you attract viewers, increase engagement, and build a loyal audience.

The first step is to start with what you know. Every creator has a unique story, skill, or experience to share. Begin by focusing on a topic you’re passionate about or knowledgeable in. This not only makes the process more enjoyable but also establishes you as a credible voice in your niche. As John S. Rhodes wisely said, “You already have something others want—your knowledge, your story, your experience.” To find your niche, brainstorm topics you’re confident about, research popular keywords using tools like TubeBuddy, and identify your target audience. For example, if you’re skilled in fitness, you could create beginner-friendly workout tutorials like “5-Minute Morning Stretches” or “Full-Body Workouts Without Equipment.”

Next, focus on consistency over perfection. Many creators make the mistake of waiting for the “perfect” video before uploading. The truth is, you can’t predict which videos will perform well, so it’s essential to upload regularly and treat your first videos as learning opportunities. Set a realistic schedule, such as posting one video per week, and experiment with different content formats to see what resonates with your audience. Use tools like Notion or Trello to plan and manage your content calendar. Over time, analyze your performance in YouTube Studio to identify which topics and formats get the most engagement.

One of the most critical aspects of growing your channel is nailing your thumbnails and titles. These are the first things your audience sees, and they determine whether someone will click on your video. Create eye-catching thumbnails using tools like Canva, focusing on bold text, contrasting colors, and visuals that highlight the main idea of your video. For titles, include keywords naturally and use numbers or questions to spark curiosity, such as “5 Tips to Grow Your Channel Fast” or “How I Gained 1,000 Subscribers in 30 Days.”

To reach a wider audience, it’s important to create content people are searching for. YouTube is the second-largest search engine, and aligning your content with popular search terms can significantly increase your visibility. Use the YouTube search bar, Google Trends, or tools like VidIQ to find trending topics and low-competition keywords. Optimize your video metadata by including these keywords in your title, description, and tags. For example, a tech channel could create videos like “Best Budget Laptops in 2024” or “How to Fix Common iPhone Issues.”

Once you start gaining traction, focus on engaging with your audience. Building a community is one of the fastest ways to grow your channel and establish a loyal following. Respond to comments on your videos, ask viewers for feedback, and incorporate their suggestions into future content. At the end of your videos, encourage interaction by asking questions like, “What topic should I cover next?” or “What’s your favorite tip from this video?” Additionally, consider creating a community space outside of YouTube, such as a Facebook group, Discord server, or email newsletter, to keep your audience engaged.

As you upload more videos, don’t be afraid to experiment with content formats. Trying different styles, such as tutorials, challenges, or collaborations, keeps your channel fresh and helps attract new viewers. For example, a beauty channel could mix tutorials like “Step-by-Step Guide to Winged Eyeliner” with product reviews and trend-based challenges. Repurposing your content for other platforms like Instagram or TikTok can also help you reach new audiences. Additionally, group related videos into playlists to encourage binge-watching and improve your watch time.

Finally, make it a habit to analyze your performance and adjust your strategy. Regularly review your YouTube Analytics to track key metrics like click-through rate (CTR), watch time, and audience retention. If you notice viewers dropping off early in your videos, tweak your intro to grab their attention faster. Use tools like TubeBuddy or VidIQ to gain deeper insights into your content’s performance and refine your approach. For instance, if a video about budgeting tips performs well, consider creating related content like “Easy Meal Plans for Budgeting” or “How to Save $1,000 in 30 Days.”

By following these steps, you can steadily grow your YouTube channel while keeping the process enjoyable. Growth takes time, and even the most successful creators started small. Stay consistent, continually improve your content, and focus on building genuine connections with your audience. Over time, your efforts will pay off, and your channel will grow into a thriving community.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing a YouTube Channel

Growing a YouTube channel is a learning process, and while experimenting and taking risks is part of the journey, certain mistakes can slow your progress or even derail your efforts. Here are some common pitfalls that creators face—and how to avoid them.

• Focusing Only on Viral Content

It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of creating a “viral” video that instantly skyrockets your channel’s popularity. While trends and viral moments can bring quick bursts of traffic, this approach is not sustainable for long-term growth. Viral content is often fleeting, and constantly chasing trends can lead to inconsistent messaging and a disconnect with your core audience.

Why This Hurts Your Channel:

• Viral trends fade quickly, often leaving no lasting impact on your subscriber base.
• Jumping from trend to trend makes it harder to establish a clear identity or niche for your channel.

What to Do Instead:

• Focus on creating evergreen content—videos that remain relevant over time. For example, tutorials, how-to guides, and educational content often perform well long-term.
• Mix in trend-based content sparingly to complement your evergreen videos. For example, a beauty channel could create timeless tutorials like “How to Perfect a Smokey Eye” while occasionally participating in viral makeup challenges.

• Neglecting SEO

One of the biggest mistakes creators make is failing to optimize their videos for search engines. YouTube, being the second-largest search engine in the world, relies heavily on keywords, metadata, and user engagement to recommend content. Without proper optimization, even high-quality videos can go unnoticed.

Why This Hurts Your Channel:

• If your video doesn’t show up in search results or recommendations, it won’t reach your target audience.
• Poor SEO can lead to low views, making it harder for your channel to grow organically.

What to Do Instead:

• Optimize Your Metadata

• • Include relevant keywords in your video title, description, and tags. For example, a video about saving money could include keywords like “budgeting tips,” “how to save money,” and “financial advice.”
  • Add timestamps in your description for a better user experience and improved search rankings.

• Use Tools to Find Keywords

• • Tools like TubeBuddy, VidIQ, or Keywords Everywhere can help you discover trending keywords and analyze your competition.

• Focus on Thumbnails and CTR (Click-Through Rate)

• • A well-optimized video still needs a strong thumbnail and engaging title to compel viewers to click.

• Ignoring Viewer Feedback

Your audience is one of your most valuable resources. Ignoring their feedback, whether it’s suggestions in the comments, likes/dislikes, or engagement patterns, is a missed opportunity to tailor your content to their needs and preferences. Failing to listen can lead to a disconnect between you and your viewers, ultimately hurting retention and loyalty.

Why This Hurts Your Channel

• Viewers may feel unappreciated or disengaged if their input is ignored.
• You risk creating content that doesn’t align with what your audience actually wants to see.

What to Do Instead

• Engage With Your Audience

• • • Respond to comments and ask for feedback at the end of your videos. For example, “What topic should I cover next? Let me know in the comments!”

• Analyze Viewer Behavior

• • • Use YouTube Analytics to see which videos have higher retention rates, more likes, or better engagement. Double down on the types of videos your audience enjoys.

• Incorporate Feedback

• • If viewers request a specific topic or format, create content around it and acknowledge their input. For instance, “This video was inspired by one of your comments—thank you for the suggestion!”

• Burning Out

Burnout is a common issue for creators, especially those who feel pressured to upload daily or constantly improve their content. Overworking yourself can lead to stress, creative fatigue, and a decline in content quality. Burnout not only affects your well-being but also your audience’s perception of your channel.

Why This Hurts Your Channel

• Burnout can lead to inconsistent uploads or even long breaks, which may cause viewers to lose interest.
• Rushed or low-quality content can harm your reputation and subscriber trust.

What to Do Instead

• Set Realistic Goals

• • • Determine a manageable upload schedule that balances quality and consistency. For beginners, one video per week is a good starting point.

• Batch Content Creation

• • • Film and edit multiple videos in a single session to reduce the workload during busy weeks. This approach helps maintain consistency without constant stress.

• Prioritize Self-Care

• • • Take breaks when needed, and don’t hesitate to slow down if you feel overwhelmed. Remember, your mental health is just as important as your content.

• Focus on Quality Over Quantity

• • A polished, well-thought-out video uploaded weekly is far more effective than rushed, low-quality daily uploads. For example, a detailed tutorial or in-depth review will resonate more than a quick, poorly edited video.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I choose a niche for my channel?

Start with something you’re passionate about or skilled at. Use YouTube’s search bar to validate demand for your topic.

How long does it take to grow a channel?

Most successful channels take 1-3 years to gain traction. Consistency and patience are critical.

How many videos should I upload per week?

Aim for at least one quality video per week, but prioritize consistency over volume.

Do I need expensive equipment to start?

No. A smartphone and good lighting are enough for beginners.

How do I get more views?

Optimize your thumbnails, titles, and descriptions. Focus on creating content people are searching for.

Should I promote my videos on social media?

Yes! Share your videos on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to reach a wider audience.

What’s the best time to upload?

Check your YouTube Analytics to see when your audience is most active.

How do I monetize my channel?

Once you reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours, you can apply for the YouTube Partner Program.

What’s the biggest mistake new creators make?

Giving up too soon. Growth takes time, so stay consistent and keep learning.

Can I grow my channel without showing my face?

Yes! Many successful channels focus on animations, tutorials, or voiceovers instead of on-camera content.

Your Roadmap to Success

Growing a successful YouTube channel may seem overwhelming at first, but with consistent effort, actionable strategies, and a clear focus, it’s entirely achievable. From starting with what you know and optimizing your videos for SEO to engaging with your audience and avoiding common pitfalls, the key takeaways from this guide are designed to help you build a sustainable and thriving channel.

Here’s a quick recap of actionable steps you can start implementing today:

• Define Your Niche: Focus on the topics you’re passionate about and that offer value to your target audience.
• Be Consistent: Set a realistic upload schedule and stick to it. Consistency builds trust and encourages algorithmic favor.
• Optimize Your Content: Use tools like TubeBuddy and VidIQ to optimize your titles, descriptions, and tags for discoverability.
• Create Eye-Catching Thumbnails and Titles: Design thumbnails with bold, clean visuals and craft titles that spark curiosity.
• Engage With Viewers: Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and build a community around your channel.
• Learn From Data: Use YouTube Analytics to track what works and refine your approach.
• Avoid Burnout: Focus on quality over quantity and manage your workload to stay inspired and productive.

Now is the perfect time to take the first step toward achieving your YouTube goals! Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your channel to the next level, implementing these tips will set you on the path to success. Remember, every big channel started small. Your growth journey begins with a single video.

Get started today by brainstorming your next video idea and committing to your upload schedule.

For more actionable tips, strategies, and inspiration, be sure to check out and subscribe to the Rhodes Brothers YouTube Channel. Their latest videos will help you stay motivated and informed as you grow your channel and succeed in your niche.

Resource List

To help you continue your journey, we’ve compiled an extensive list of resources, including books, blogs, tools, and courses, for actionable support in building your YouTube channel.

Books

• YouTube Secrets: The Ultimate Guide to Growing Your Following and Making Money as a Video Influencer by Sean Cannell & Benji Travis
• The YouTube Formula: How Anyone Can Unlock the Algorithm to Drive Views, Build an Audience, and Grow Revenue by Derral Eves
• Content Inc.: Start a Content-First Business, Build a Massive Audience, and Become Radically Successful (with Little to No Money) by Joe Pulizzi

Blogs and Websites

• Social Media Examiner: A treasure trove of articles on video marketing and YouTube strategies.
• Think with Google (YouTube Insights): Data-driven insights on trends and audience behavior.
• TubeFilter: News and tips about the YouTube community and trends.

Podcasts to Stay Inspired

• The Video Creators Podcast by Tim Schmoyer – Tips for YouTube growth and storytelling.
• TubeTalk by VidIQ – Weekly advice on YouTube SEO, monetization, and content strategy.
• The Colin and Samir Show – Insights on the creator economy and interviews with successful YouTubers.

Tools for Optimization and Success

• TubeBuddy: A browser extension for keyword research, tag optimization, and competitor analysis.
• VidIQ: A powerful tool for video analytics and performance tracking.
• Canva: For creating professional-looking thumbnails and channel art.
• Notion: To organize your content calendar and brainstorm ideas.
• Epidemic Sound: A royalty-free music library to enhance your videos.
• OBS Studio: Free software for screen recording and live streaming.

Courses and Online Training

• YouTube Masterclass (Udemy) – A step-by-step guide to creating, growing, and monetizing your channel.
• Video Labs by Video Creators – Advanced training on storytelling, audience growth, and revenue strategies.

Additional Tools:

• Google Trends: To discover trending topics in your niche.
• Hootsuite: For managing and scheduling social media posts to promote your videos.
• Keywords Everywhere: For finding relevant keywords to help your videos rank higher.
• Trevor.io: To analyze YouTube data and find actionable insights about your audience.