YouTube has become the go-to for millions, for entertainment, education and a career.
However, can YouTube be a realistic career option?
Well, let’s take a deeper look.
Now one thing is for sure.
YouTube has changed content consumption and creation.
Not only has it become a go-to for those who want to chill in the evenings after getting home from work.
But it also encourages users to make YouTube their full-time job.
With the number of new creators who are becoming successful and famous leveraging the platform.
The lure of earning money while doing something you love is just an opportunity that is too good to pass up for many.
However to go from the job you are doing right now.
Chasing YouTube has a career.
Well, you need to be cautious, as there is so much more to this than you may initially think.
Now lets need not say, that you need dedication, talent, persistence and adaptability.
And arguably a bit of luck, with content shown to the right people at the right times to get things rolling.
You will need to be consistent making quality content on top of that, to build an audience.
Its not just that you need to worry about.
Monetizing a YouTube channel is another challenge.
Ads are one source.
Sponsorships, merchandise, brand deals and crowdfunding as just a few more.
But simply honing down on one or two of these may on YouTube may not be sustainable.
Lets not forget too, that competition is fierce,
As there are millions of channels vying for attention constantly competing against each other for attention.
However this is not to put any of you off, YouTube.
I personally know people close to me who have started channels and are thriving.
But it would silly not to note any concerns when it comes to starting YouTube.
Now to give you one example of someone who has carved successful careers on YouTube.
PewDiePie has over 110 million subscribers and is one of the highest-paid YouTubers.
While niches like beauty, gaming, tech, lifestyle have thriving communities and substantial earning potentials.
So what does that say?
Despite all the competition and factors you will need to take in to account.
A YouTube Career could be doable after all.
Table of Contents
The Rise of YouTube as a Career
So what has caused such a massive influx in the popularity of YouTube has a career.
Well digital media proliferation is one for sure.
This is also aided by the fact that people as young as kids want to be YouTubers nowadays.
In fact according to this study 1/3 of kids nowadays aspire to become one.
But little do some of these kids know is that things like.
- monetization
- global reach
- creative freedom
- diverse content
- flexibility
- long-term potential
- creating captivating content
- adapting to algorithm
Are just a few of the factors that will dictate if someone is able to actually make YouTube a sustainable career.
To be successful, aspiring YouTubers should create unique content, engage with the audience, and invest in quality equipment.
If you look at anyone doing well on YouTube lets say 100k subscribers, they have all made some investments into there YouTube to keep them moving in that upwards trajectory.
So by following these tips and keeping up with trends, they can turn their passion into a successful and fulfilling career.
But, it’s not easy!
YouTubing is like trying to find a needle in a haystack.
The needle being a stable income and the haystack being full of cat videos and makeup tutorials.
The Realities of Being a YouTuber
Not every YouTuber is on a beach somewhere enjoying a cocktail, after quickly uploading a YouTube video.
Well I mean some probably are.
But the point is being a YouTuber isn’t so glamorous.
Being one and this is something anybody looking to YouTube should take on board.
Is the need of having a steady content plan.
The ability to deal with criticism.
Adapting to ever-changing algorithms.
Just to name a few of the challenges.
So as you have maybe grasped.
It takes dedication, creativity, and hard work to stand out.
Producing content that connects with your target audience is a key to success.
This involves studying current trends and knowing what your viewers want to see.
But, creating high-quality videos isn’t as simple as pressing record and uploading any random thing.
Gaining a dedicated subscriber base is crucial.
Connecting with your viewers through comments, working together with other producers, and providing value through entertaining or informative videos help build a community to keep people coming back.
Self-promotion is a must.
Growing your channel and getting new subscribers requires marketing yourself on social media.
This includes sharing teasers of upcoming content, interacting with followers on Twitter or Instagram, and joining online communities related to your niche.
Negative comments and criticisms can be difficult.
As your channel grows, there will be people who don’t like your content.
Building a thick skin and learning how to handle these criticisms productively is essential for career growth.
Tip: When starting out, make content you really care about. This will keep you motivated and draw in an audience that shares your interests.
The Potential Benefits of a YouTube Career
You probably don’t need me to tell you what advantages there are to taking up a YouTube career.
Well lets just say there are plentiful, of which some exist off:
- Income Possibility: A successful channel brings in money from ads, sponsorships and merchandise.
- Creative Flexibility: You are free to express yourself and create content that appeals to your viewers.
- Global Exposure: YouTube offers a platform to reach audiences from all over the world.
- Community Connection: Building a loyal community gives you an opportunity to connect with your followers.
Plus, there are other benefits to consider.
Succeeding as a YouTuber can open doors to work with brands, or even develop projects in traditional media.
Remember: Consistency is essential for long-term success!
Post quality content and engage with your audience, and you’ll be on the right track.
The Limitations and Risks of Pursuing YouTube as a Career
Has I spoke about in this post where I went over how to make a living with YouTube, there are plenty of risks with pursuing YouTube as a career.
To name a few of these limitations and risks, we have:
- The huge Competition on the platform, this makes it tough to stand out and gain followers.
- Platform algorithms shift, which can reduce visibility and reach.
- Monetization on YouTube isn’t certain as we alluded to earlier. Ad revenue can vary which causes confusion for YouTubers. You can have a very good month and a bad month the next.
- Consistency in content creation is difficult. This can lead to burnout and boredom for viewers.
- Job security in this industry is low. Trends and audience tastes change quickly, making YouTubers vulnerable to losing their followers.
To create a successful career on YouTube, you need dedication, drive, and the ability to keep up with the ever-changing world of content production.
Even more than that if you want to make a significant money that allows you to support your lifestyle.
Then you can expect to need to work very hard for this.
So you want to get rid of any idea that you will be able to make a YouTube channel and be succeeding with lots of money straight away.
Because unless you get lucky, this is very unlikely to happen.
Criticisms and Controversies Surrounding YouTube as a Career
Now if you go talking to your friend, teacher, acquaintance or anyone close to you about YouTube.
Well they would likely tell you that it isn’t a route you should go down.
Why?
Well YouTube has a career despite how mainstream it is nowadays.
Is still frowned upon, when it comes to putting all your eggs in one basket, and attempting to support yourself from it solely.
Now with how big YouTube has gotten now, all the talk about making it a career has only heightened.
As more and more people aim to get into the space.
But there are plenty of criticisms and controversies that make it seem not so realistic or stable.
Which while you should be aware off, I certainly don’t think should be enough to put you off the YouTube route.
- Income uncertainty – relying on ad revenue can change drastically due to algorithm changes and advertiser preferences.
- Advertisers boycotting – ads showing up next to inappropriate/offensive content has led to losing support from advertisers.
- Demonetization – videos being demonetized due to copyright claims or controversial topics can lessen the ability to sustain on the platform.
- Platform dominance – it’s harder for new creators to succeed without being overshadowed by established channels with large subscribers.
- Mental health pressure – stress, burnout, and anxiety can come from the pressure of producing content, gaining views/subscribers, and maintaining an online persona.
So as you can see there are plenty of crtisisms that come with the job.
However if you are determined to make YouTube work for you, then you will find a way.
Advice for Those Considering a YouTube Career
So if your with me at this point, chances are you have a somewhat strong interest in YouTube as a career.
If that is really the case, then I would consider following these tips, to increase your chances of success in making YouTube a reality for you.
- Find your niche and make content that’s unique.
- Engage with your audience. Respond to comments and create a sense of community.
- Consistently upload new content so your audience knows when to expect it.
- Monetize your channel through sponsorships and ads.
In a nutshell that means you need to do your research.
Interact with your viewers, building that community,
All while making quality content, that will keep your followers coming back.
Following that you will find it hard to not have an audience that you can use to monetize and make those next steps towards building that career in YouTube.
While I don’t follow her content.
Just never been one for Makeup, but Michelle Phan is a great example of someone who turned their YouTube channel into a career.
Through her tutorials she gained massive popularity, and she eventually launched her own beauty brand.
Now I could probably make a whole post on case studies of successful YouTubers and how they beat the odds, but I think you probably understand at this point that not only is it possible.
But with the effort and passion, you can carve a career for yourself in YouTube.
Conclusion
So to conclude creating a successful career on YouTube is possible with dedication, effort, and passion for content making.
Many YouTubers transformed their channels into profitable businesses.
So let that motivate you and don’t let any of the negatives deter you from pursuing a career in it.
You have so many ways you can make money on the platform.
Which is only a plus.
From ad revenue, brand collaborations, to merchandise sales.
This is another reason, with all the monetization models, that if your going to do YouTube.
That you take it seriously.
And not any of that half hearted stuff.
As with the odds already stacked against anybody who signs up as a creator.
You want to make them as best as possible for you.
Consistency is essential in the YouTube world.
Posting regular videos keeps your fans interested and helps build a community around your channel. Interacting and replying to comments builds a connection and loyalty.
Building a lasting career on YouTube requires much time and effort.
Additionally, diversifying your income sources can offer stability in the ever-changing digital world.
While also allowing you to stay ahead of the game.
Try sponsored videos, affiliate marketing, and patronage platforms to supplement ad revenue changes.
Adaptability is vital in this industry.
YouTube algorithms and trends keep changing.
Stay up to date with the latest tricks for growth, such as optimizing metadata, using SEO tactics, and partnering with other creators to give your channel an edge.
Pro Tip: Create content you are passionate about and be true to yourself. Authenticity will keep your viewers engaged and help you stand out from the massive content creators on YouTube.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is YouTube a realistic career?
Yes, YouTube can be a realistic career option for those who are dedicated and willing to put in the effort. Many successful YouTubers have turned their channels into full-time careers and have achieved financial stability.
2. How do YouTubers make money?
YouTubers make money through various revenue streams, including ad revenue from YouTube’s Partner Program, sponsored videos, brand partnerships, merchandise sales, and crowdfunding from platforms like Patreon.
3. How long does it take to become successful on YouTube?
There is no fixed timeline for success on YouTube. It varies for each creator depending on factors such as content quality, consistency, audience engagement, and marketing efforts. Some achieve success quickly, while others may take years to gain a substantial following.
4. What skills are needed to become a successful YouTuber?
To become a successful YouTuber, it is important to have skills such as content creation, video editing, storytelling, audience engagement, and marketing. Additionally, creativity, perseverance, and adaptability are essential traits for long-term success.
5. Does YouTube have a future as a career?
Yes, So if your asking is YouTube a realistic career, then know that it is. The platform continues to grow, and with the rise of online video content, the demand for quality YouTube creators is expected to increase. However, staying updated with trends and evolving strategies is crucial for long-term success.
6. Are there any risks in pursuing a YouTube career?
Like any career, there are risks associated with pursuing a YouTube career. The platform’s algorithms and policies can change, affecting reach and revenue. Additionally, the competition is fierce, and maintaining consistent growth and engagement can be challenging. It is important to have backup plans and diversify income sources.
