YouTube Released a New Feature for Video Uploaders Called Cards!

YouTube explains it like this: "You can think of cards like an evolution of annotations. They inform your viewers about other videos, merchandise, and playlists. You can direct viewers to your website, encourage them to join your mailing list and more. They look as beautiful as your videos, are available for use at any point during the video and yes, they finally work on mobile!"

The best part is they are interactive and informative! Worrying about your viewer remembering that website you mentioned in earlier your video? It's no longer a priority! You don't even need to hope your viewers get to the end of your video to see your social media links. Cards appear on the side of your video with links, a call to action, images, and descriptions.

You can use up to 5 cards per video and can choose from cards on merchandise, fundraising, other videos, playlists, associated websites, or fan funding! They can be used to motivate your viewers to take action and interact with you further across multiple platforms.

How will this feature help you promote your business?

Drive Traffic
Start off by determining what the goal of your video is, then align your cards accordingly. Is your video informative, or is it entertaining? Send them to a relevant blog on your website for more information. Are you talking about a specific feature of your product or service? Send them that service page on your website. This will get people onto your website and one step closer to conversion than if they landed on your homepage.

Build relationships
Create a bond with your viewers by offering an incentive to click on links from your cards. Anything from a free webinar viewing, helpful tips, or a discount code will keep your viewers happy and your business growing. This can strengthen your database and build relationships with your customers. Having someone's email address is like gold to your business, so make sure if you collect emails you utilize email marketing to keep in touch!

Increase Sales
By creating videos of your product in use, you're probably already targeting people who have an interest in what your business offers! Include a card that links directly to the products or services on your website, so that customers don't have to wonder where to go next, and are immediately aware that you offer the products showcased in the video. The more creative your video is, the stronger the chance you have of a viewer clicking a link to your site.

Enhance Credibility
Educational videos reinforce your reputation as an expert within your field. Include educational links to things such as infographics or webinars in order to deepen your credibility and provide additional information to viewers. You can position yourself as a leader within your industry by delivering a multitude of platforms that inform and educate.

This new innovation provides numerous opportunities to improve your social media marketing and boost online results. Speak to your local Bloomtools Consultant for more insights on how to utilize YouTube and other important platforms as a part of your larger online marketing strategy.