How to Make Viral Youtube Shorts (Including 20+ Tips)

YouTube Shorts have taken the platform by storm, providing creators with a new way to reach millions of viewers quickly. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into how to make viral YouTube Shorts, ensuring your content stands out and gets the attention it deserves.

What Are YouTube Shorts?

YouTube Shorts are short, vertical videos up to 60 seconds long, designed to capture viewers' attention quickly and keep them engaged. 

These videos are similar to TikTok and Instagram Reels, focusing on concise, impactful content that can be easily consumed on mobile devices. 

Launched to compete with the rising popularity of short-form video platforms, YouTube Shorts are an excellent opportunity for creators to grow their channels and reach new audiences.

For a deeper understanding, you can check out YouTube's official guide to Shorts.

How to Create and Upload YouTube Shorts

Creating and uploading YouTube Shorts is straightforward:

1. Open the YouTube app on your mobile device.
2. Tap the + icon at the bottom center of the screen.
3. Select "Create a Short."
4. Record your video by holding down the record button. You can record multiple clips in one Short by releasing and pressing the record button again.
5. Add music, text, and filters to enhance your video.
6. Once satisfied, tap "Next" and add details like title, description, and hashtags.
7. Select "Upload" to publish your Short.

For a visual tutorial, you can refer to this video guide.

How to Make YouTube Shorts Go Viral

Making a YouTube Short go viral involves a combination of creativity, optimization, and promotion. Here are essential steps to follow:

Hook Your Audience Quickly

The first few seconds are crucial. Start with an attention-grabbing moment to keep viewers watching. For example, if you're making a DIY video, show the final product at the very beginning to intrigue viewers.

Keep It Short and Engaging

Ensure your content is concise and to the point. Avoid filler content and maintain a fast pace. For instance, this Short captures attention quickly and maintains engagement throughout.

Use Popular Music and Sounds

Trending audio can boost your video's visibility. Choose music that complements your content. Check out YouTube’s Audio Library for free music and sound effects. Using trending sounds from TikTok or other social platforms can also help, as shown in this example.

Add Captions and Text

Captions can help retain viewers who watch without sound and emphasize key points. Tools like Kapwing and Zubtitle make adding captions easy.

Leverage Trends and Challenges

Participate in trending topics and challenges to increase discoverability. Explore current trends on platforms like TikTok to get ideas. For example, the "Flip the Switch" challenge gained massive traction on YouTube Shorts.

Optimize with Hashtags

Use relevant and trending hashtags to improve your video's reach. Websites like HashtagsForLikes can help you find the best hashtags for your content. Including specific hashtags like #Shorts and niche-specific tags can make your content more discoverable.

Promote Your Shorts

Share your Shorts on other social media platforms and engage with your audience to encourage sharing. Use platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to reach a broader audience. Engaging with your viewers in the comments and encouraging them to share your content can significantly increase its reach.

20 Tips for Going Viral with YouTube Shorts

1. Start with a Bang: Capture attention immediately. Begin your video with an intriguing question or a surprising fact.
2. Tell a Story: Create a narrative that keeps viewers hooked. For example, a 60-second transformation story can be very engaging.
3. Keep It Under 60 Seconds: Shorter videos tend to perform better. Aim for around 30 seconds to maximize engagement.
4. Focus on Quality: Use good lighting, clear audio, and high resolution. Learn more about video quality in this guide.
5. Use Trending Music: Align with current trends for better reach. Tools like TunePocket can help you find the right tracks.
6. Be Consistent: Upload regularly to keep your audience engaged. A consistent posting schedule can help build a loyal following.
7. Engage with Viewers: Respond to comments and foster a community. Engaging with viewers can increase their loyalty and encourage them to share your content.
8. Cross-Promote: Share on other social media platforms. Promote your Shorts on Instagram Stories, Facebook, and Twitter to increase visibility.
9. Collaborate with Other Creators: Expand your reach through partnerships. Collaborations can introduce your content to new audiences and increase your subscriber count.
10. Analyze Analytics: Use YouTube Analytics to understand what works. Pay attention to metrics like watch time, audience retention, and engagement to refine your strategy.
11. Create Playlists: Group your Shorts into thematic playlists. This can improve viewer retention by encouraging viewers to watch multiple videos.
12. Use Clear Thumbnails: Make your videos easily identifiable. Although Shorts don’t usually show thumbnails, a recognizable style can help build your brand.
13. Include Calls to Action: Encourage likes, shares, and subscriptions. Simple prompts like "If you enjoyed this, hit the like button!" can be very effective.
14. Stay Relevant: Align your content with current events and trends. Timely content can be more engaging and shareable.
15. Test Different Formats: Experiment with different styles and formats. Whether it’s tutorials, comedy, or inspirational content, finding what resonates with your audience is key.
16. Optimize Titles and Descriptions: Use keywords effectively. Tools like TubeBuddy can help you optimize your titles and descriptions for better discoverability.
17. Use the Shorts Camera: Utilize YouTube's built-in tools. The Shorts camera offers features like speed control and a multi-segment camera to make creating Shorts easier.
18. Keep Experimenting: Don't be afraid to try new ideas. Continually experimenting with new content types and formats can keep your channel fresh and engaging.
19. Focus on One Niche: Establish yourself as an expert in one area. Specializing in a niche can help build a dedicated audience.
20. Have Fun: Enjoy the process, and your passion will shine through. Authenticity can attract and retain viewers.

Key Takeaways

• YouTube Shorts are a powerful tool for reaching new audiences.
• Focus on creating engaging, high-quality content that hooks viewers quickly.
• Utilize trending music, hashtags, and challenges to boost visibility.
• Consistency and engagement are key to building a loyal audience.

Viral YouTube Shorts FAQ

How long should a YouTube Short be?

YouTube Shorts can be up to 60 seconds long, but shorter videos often perform better due to higher retention rates.

What is the best time to post YouTube Shorts?

The best time varies based on your audience. Use YouTube Analytics to determine when your viewers are most active.

How can I use hashtags effectively?

Use relevant and trending hashtags in your title and description to improve discoverability. For more tips, check out this article.

Can I monetize my YouTube Shorts?

Yes, YouTube has introduced the Shorts Fund to reward creators. Additionally, Shorts can drive traffic and conversions to your other monetized content.

What type of content works best for YouTube Shorts?

Engaging, concise content that quickly grabs attention works best. Tutorials, funny clips, and trending challenges are popular formats.

Creating viral YouTube Shorts involves a blend of creativity, strategy, and consistent effort. By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you can maximize your chances of creating content that resonates with viewers and goes viral. 

Additionally, consider using tools like Rally.Fan to optimize your content and manage your creator brand effectively. Happy creating!