If you’re a YouTuber struggling to get views or subscribers, you’re not alone. The platform is a jungle, and without the right strategies, your videos might be sinking into obscurity. But here’s the kicker: the problem might not be your content—it could be your settings. In this article, we’ll dive into 10 YouTube settings you need to turn off immediately to stop sabotaging your growth. Inspired by insights from Belmont’s video, we’ll go beyond the basics and give you a comprehensive, opinionated guide to optimizing your channel. Let’s get started.
Why Your YouTube Settings Matter
YouTube is more than just a video platform; it’s a complex algorithm-driven ecosystem. Every setting, every feature, and every experiment YouTube runs can impact your channel’s performance. The problem? Many creators don’t even realize they’re shooting themselves in the foot with default settings. Belmont, a creator with multiple successful channels, including one with 5 million subscribers, shared some eye-opening tips in his video. But we’re not just regurgitating his advice—we’re expanding on it, adding our own spin, and giving you actionable steps to take your channel to the next level.
1. Turn Off Automatic Chapters
Let’s start with a setting that’s hiding in plain sight: automatic chapters. To find it, go to YouTube Studio, click on Upload Defaults, and then Advanced Settings. You’ll see the option for automatic chapters. Uncheck it. Why? Because YouTube’s automatic chapters are often inaccurate, leading viewers to click off your video instead of watching it all the way through. If you want to use chapters, do it manually. It’s a bit more work, but it’s worth it for the improved watch time.
2. Say No to Automatic Concepts
Next up is automatic concepts, an experimental feature that YouTube sometimes enables on your channel. You can find this under the Content tab in YouTube Studio. Uncheck it immediately. Why? Because YouTube’s experiments often backfire, and you don’t want to be the guinea pig. Belmont shared a cautionary tale about how an experiment cost him $500,000 in potential revenue. Don’t let that be you. Turn off automatic concepts and avoid the risk.
3. Disable Featured Places
Here’s a setting that’s as unnecessary as it is invasive: featured places. This feature, found in your video settings, shows viewers your exact location. Unless you’re a travel vlogger, you don’t need this. It’s a privacy nightmare and a distraction for your audience. Uncheck it and keep your location private.
4. Optimize Your Channel Keywords
Channel keywords are the secret sauce to getting discovered on YouTube. Found under Master Settings > Channel, these keywords tell YouTube what your channel is about and who to promote it to. For small YouTubers, this is crucial. Belmont recommends a three-step process: start with broad, high-search-volume keywords, add adjacent niche tags, and include popular channel names in your niche. Tools like VidIQ can help you find the best keywords for your channel.
5. Stick to the Standard YouTube License
When uploading videos, you’ll see an option for Creative Commons licensing. Avoid it. This allows anyone to reuse your content without your permission. Stick to the standard YouTube license to protect your work. However, you can enable Shorts Remixing under Advanced Settings to allow others to clip and react to your content, which can drive more traffic to your channel.
6. Block Bad Words in Comments
Your comment section is a reflection of your channel. If it’s filled with bad words, YouTube won’t promote your videos to younger audiences. Go to Community Moderation in YouTube Studio and add every bad word you can think of to the blocked words list. This simple step can save your channel from being flagged as inappropriate.
7. Block Links in Comments
While you’re in Community Moderation, make sure to block links in comments. Scammers often post dangerous links that can harm your viewers and hurt your channel’s reputation. Blocking links keeps your comment section clean and safe.
8. Avoid the Schedule Feature
Scheduling videos might seem like a time-saver, but it can hurt your performance. Belmont noticed that scheduled videos often underperform compared to those made public manually. Instead of scheduling, upload your video as unlisted and manually make it public when you’re ready to post.
9. Use VidIQ for Advanced Analytics
If you’re serious about growing your channel, you need advanced analytics. VidIQ is a free tool that gives you insights into your channel’s performance, including keyword research, SEO scores, and competitor analysis. It’s a must-have for any YouTuber looking to blow up.
10. Join the YouTube Growth Academy
For those who want to take their channel to the next level, Belmont offers the YouTube Growth Academy. This course provides step-by-step guidance, direct support, and exclusive bonuses like the Blowup Blueprint. It’s an investment in your channel’s future.
Final Thoughts
YouTube is a powerful platform, but it’s not without its pitfalls. By tweaking these settings, you can avoid common mistakes and set your channel up for success. Remember, it’s not just about creating great content—it’s about optimizing every aspect of your channel to maximize growth.
Join the iNthacity Community
Ready to take your YouTube game to the next level? Join the Shining City on the Web and become a permanent resident of iNthacity. Share your thoughts in the comments, participate in the debate, and let’s grow together. Like, share, and subscribe to stay updated with the latest tips and tricks. Your journey to YouTube stardom starts here.
Thought-Provoking Questions
- Have you noticed a difference in performance after tweaking your YouTube settings?
- What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced in growing your channel?
- Which of these tips are you most excited to try?
Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments below!
Wait! There's more...check out our gripping short story that continues the journey: The Key of Eternity
Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations and reviews are always independent and objective, aiming to provide you with the best information and resources.
Get Exclusive Stories, Photos, Art & Offers - Subscribe Today!
Post Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.