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Love movie trailers? Who doesn’t? Those perfect popcorn sized moments leave you thirsty for more. Which is exactly why your YouTube channel needs a trailer of its own.
There are currently over 31 million YouTube channels out there in the ‘tuberverse’ and having an epic channel trailer is the key to attracting new viewers.
Did you know YouTube is the world’s second most popular website after Google? With 2 billion users worldwide every month, there’s no telling how many new eyeballs could land on your channel.
In this guide we’ll explain everything you need to know to create a standout trailer for your YouTube channel in no time.
What is a YouTube channel trailer, exactly?
We’re glad you asked.
A YouTube channel trailer is a video that takes centre stage on your YouTube channel page and appears for all unsubscribed visitors.
Reel your viewers in with a YouTube channel trailer that tells them who you (or your brand) are, what you’re about, and why they should subscribe to your channel.
What’s also cool is ads won't appear when the trailer is playing on the channel page in the trailer spot (unless the video contains third-party claimed content). It’s a nice touch to keep the viewer interested and a prime chance to get them to subscribe to your channel
Remember, it’s the year 2020, and if there’s one thing you can be certain of it’s that your trailer needs to be fresh and relevant. It might even be something you aim to update each year.
How to make a channel trailer
Well, firstly, you’re going to want an easy video editing program. Like, for example, ours! The free Clipchamp online video editor comes with all of the features required to create great videos – no experience needed. Though, if you’ve already got a YouTube channel, chances are you’re already harnessing the power of Clipchamp to make great videos!
Before you start shouting lights-camera-action however, make a plan for your trailer video. What are your talking points? Who is your desired audience?
Enter your YouTube channel trailer script
It’s always a good idea to draft a script for your videos. For your trailer, consider what words and images appear on screen and the vibe of your YouTube channel trailer music. Do these clearly communicate the message of your channel and match its ”look and feel” (aka your branding)?
Tip: It’s important to tell viewers what to do next – cue name dropping your channel and invitation to watch more!
YouTube best practices for your channel trailer
First impressions count: assume the viewer has never heard of you. This is your shot at introducing them to what you or your brand are all about and encourage them to subscribe to your channel.
Don’t beat around the bush: pitch the great things about your channel quickly - who you are, what your content is like and when they can expect new uploads. For example, a coffee accessories company that shares video reviews of products, with new videos every week.
Show, don’t tell: if you’re a stand-up comedian, make sure your trailer is funny (duh)! Let your personality or brand personality shine through.
CTA: use your video end card to ask viewers to subscribe! And you can even use cues to direct them to the subscribe button throughout the trailer.
Nail the description: help those friendly internet search engines out by using keywords that will help people find you. When a viewer lands on your channel, your description should give them a good idea of what your channel is about and where to go for more information.
Extra tips
Start with a catchy tagline that sums up your channel.
Use action words to entice viewers to subscribe.
Include links to your social channels/website - but use URL shorteners to keep it tight!
Make it mobile-friendly - check how the description displays on smartphones and tablets.
Check out our blog post for step-by-step instructions for uploading your trailer, and tips on video intros too.
YouTube channel trailer maker
Plate it up! So maybe you’ve got a few ideas, but need the bones of it to get started? That’s when templates come in handy. You could Google ‘YouTube channel trailer template free download’ or ‘Make YouTube channel trailer online free’... or you could sign up for a free Clipchamp account and get access to our curated YouTube video templates with a range of themes to inspire.
YouTube channel trailer examples
So, do these trailers make you wanna hit subscribe?
(Hint: the answer should be ‘heck yeah!’)
P.S. Though you’re a wizard in the kitchen, it might be time for a trailer refresh, Jamie.
