Starting a YouTube Channel as a SAHM

Why Start a YouTube Channel as a SAHM?

First off, let’s talk about why you might want to start a YouTube channel. For many SAHMs, YouTube offers a flexible way to share passions, skills, and experiences while staying at home with the kids. Plus, it can be a great way to connect with a like-minded community and even earn some extra money.

Step 1: Define Your Channel’s Purpose and Niche

Before you start filming, it’s crucial to decide on the purpose of your channel and the niche you want to focus on. Ask yourself:

• What topics am I passionate about?
• What skills or knowledge can I share with others?
• Who is my target audience?

Choosing a niche helps you attract a dedicated audience and makes it easier to plan your content. Some popular niches for SAHMs include parenting tips, home organisation, cooking, DIY crafts, fitness, and lifestyle vlogs.

Step 2: Set Up Your YouTube Channel

Once you’ve decided on your niche, it’s time to set up your YouTube channel. Follow these steps:

1. Create a Google Account: If you don’t already have one, you’ll need a Google account to sign in to YouTube.
2. Create a Channel: Go to YouTube, sign in, and click on your profile picture. Select “Create a Channel” and follow the prompts to set up your channel name and profile.
3. Customise Your Channel: Add a profile picture and channel banner that reflect your brand. Write a compelling channel description that tells viewers what your channel is about and why they should subscribe.

Step 3: Plan Your Content

Planning your content ahead of time will save you a lot of headaches down the road. Here’s how to get started:

• Brainstorm Video Ideas: Write down as many video ideas as you can. Think about what your audience would find valuable or entertaining.
• Create a Content Calendar: Plan out your video schedule. Decide how often you’ll post (e.g., once a week) and stick to it.
• Research Keywords: Use tools like Google Trends, YouTube Search, and keyword planners to find out what people are searching for in your niche. Incorporate these keywords into your video titles, descriptions, and tags.

Step 4: Gather Your Equipment

You don’t need fancy equipment to start a YouTube channel, but having a few basics can improve the quality of your videos:

• Camera: A smartphone with a good camera or an entry-level DSLR will work just fine.
• Microphone: Good audio quality is crucial. Consider investing in a lavalier mic or a USB microphone.
• Lighting: Natural light is great, but you might want to get a ring light or softbox lights to ensure consistent lighting.

Step 5: Film and Edit Your Videos

Now it’s time to start filming! Here are some tips to help you create high-quality videos:

• Plan Your Shots: Before you hit record, plan out what you’re going to say and how you’re going to film it.
• Keep It Short and Engaging: Attention spans on YouTube can be short, so get to the point quickly and keep your videos engaging.
• Edit Your Videos: Use editing software to cut out mistakes, add music, and include graphics or text overlays. Free options like iMovie (Mac) and DaVinci Resolve (Mac/Windows) are great for beginners.

Step 6: Optimise Your Videos for SEO

To get your videos noticed, you’ll need to optimise them for YouTube’s search algorithm:

• Title: Use a catchy, keyword-rich title.
• Description: Write a detailed description with relevant keywords. Include links to your social media, website, and other videos.
• Tags: Add relevant tags to help YouTube understand the content of your video.
• Thumbnail: Create an eye-catching thumbnail that accurately represents your video.

Step 7: Promote Your Channel

Promoting your videos can help you grow your audience more quickly. Here’s how:

• Social Media: Share your videos on your social media platforms.
• Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments and engage with viewers. Building a community is key to your channel’s success.
• Collaborate with Other YouTubers: Find other creators in your niche and collaborate on videos to reach a wider audience.

Step 8: Monitor Your Analytics and Adjust

Once your videos are live, keep an eye on your YouTube analytics. This will help you understand what’s working and what’s not. Look for patterns in which videos get the most views, likes, and comments, and adjust your content strategy accordingly.

Starting a YouTube channel as a SAHM can be a fulfilling and profitable venture. By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to creating a successful channel that shares your unique voice and connects with an audience.

Ready to start your YouTube journey? Grab your camera, start brainstorming content ideas, and dive in. Happy filming!

FAQs

1. Do I need expensive equipment to start a YouTube channel?
   • No, you can start with a good smartphone camera and gradually invest in better equipment as your channel grows.
2. How often should I upload videos?
   • Consistency is key. Aim to upload at least once a week to keep your audience engaged.
3. How can I make my videos more engaging?
   • Plan your content, keep it concise, and use editing to add visual and audio elements that keep viewers interested.
4. How do I get more subscribers?
   • Promote your channel on social media, engage with your audience, and collaborate with other YouTubers in your niche.

Useful Sites:

• YouTube Creator Academy
• Google Trends
• Keyword Planner