Starting a YouTube channel feels exciting and terrifying at the same time, doesn’t it?
You’ve got ideas swirling around. You know you have something valuable to share. But where do you actually start?
Here’s the truth: your first videos matter more than you think. They’re not just practice runs. They’re your foundation. They tell viewers who you are and why they should care. And when you plan them strategically, you’ll attract real subscribers – people who actually want to hear what you have to say.
Let’s map out your first five videos together…
Why Your First Videos Are Important
Think of your first few videos as your channel’s handshake. They introduce you. They build trust. They give people a reason to click that subscribe button.
Random uploads won’t cut it. You need a strategic and thoughtful lineup that builds momentum.
Each video should have a purpose. Each one should move your viewer closer to becoming a loyal subscriber.
Ready? Let’s break it down…
Video 1: Your Channel Introduction
What it does: This video answers three questions – Who are you? What’s this channel about? What’s in it for me?
Your action plan:
Keep it short. Under two minutes is perfect. You’re not making a documentary about your life. You’re making a promise about what’s coming.
Speak directly to the person you want to reach. Picture them sitting across from you at a coffee shop. What would you tell them?
Use clear language like “If you’re looking for…” or “On this channel, you’ll find…” No fancy jargon. Just straight talk.
Example: “Hi, I’m Sarah. If you’ve ever wanted to grow your own fresh vegetables and herbs but don’t have a big yard, you’re in the right place.
I’ll show you how to create a thriving container garden on your patio, balcony, or even a sunny windowsill – no green thumb required.”
See? Simple. Welcoming. Clear.
Video 2: Your Personal Story
What it does: People connect with people, not faceless experts. Share your journey and you’ll build instant trust.
Your action plan:
Be real. Don’t polish away the messy parts. That’s where the connection happens.
Tell them why you started this channel. What problem were you trying to solve? What kept you up at night?
Share a challenge you overcame. Not to brag – to show them it’s possible. If you figured it out, they can too.
Example: “I started container gardening at 56 after moving to an apartment with no yard. I killed my first three tomato plants and couldn’t figure out why my herbs kept dying.
But I kept learning. And now? I’m growing enough vegetables to share with my neighbors. If I can do this, trust me – you absolutely can.”
That vulnerability? That’s your superpower.
Video 3: Tutorial or How-To
What it does: This is where you prove your expertise. You show – not just tell – that you know your stuff.
Your action plan:
Pick a topic people are actively searching for. Think about what your ideal viewer types into YouTube at 10 PM when they’re frustrated and need help.
Break it into clear, numbered steps. Make it easy to follow. Use visuals when possible. Screen recordings. Close-ups. Whatever helps them see exactly what to do.
End with a call to action. “If this helped, subscribe for more tutorials.” Give them a reason to stick around.
Example: “How to Grow Tomatoes in Containers – A Complete Guide for Beginners”
One specific problem. One clear solution. That’s your formula.
Video 4: Problem-Solving Content
What it does: This positions you as the helpful guide who gets it. You understand their struggles because you’ve been there.
Your action plan:
Use problem-focused keywords in your title. “How to Fix…” or “Avoid This Mistake…” or “What to Do When…” These phrases get clicks because they promise relief.
Offer real solutions. Not vague advice. Actionable steps they can take today.
Draw from your own mistakes if you can. “I wasted three months doing this wrong – here’s the shortcut.”
Example: “5 Container Gardening Mistakes That Kill Your Plants (and How to Avoid Them)”
You’re not just sharing information. You’re saving them time, frustration, and money.
Video 5: Engagement-Focused Video
What it does: This one’s different. It’s not just about delivering value – it’s about starting a conversation.
Your action plan:
Ask questions your viewers can answer in the comments. Make them specific. “What vegetable do you most want to grow in a container?” works better than “What do you think?”
Invite them to suggest future topics. This does two things – it gives you video ideas and makes them feel heard.
Point them to your other videos or a playlist you’re building. Keep them watching.
Example: “What’s Your Biggest Container Gardening Challenge? Let’s Talk in the Comments!”
This video builds community. It turns viewers into participants. That’s when magic happens.
See Video: How to Start a YouTube Channel in 8 Minutes
Your First Five Videos: The Big Picture
Look at what you’ve created:
- Video 1 introduces you.
- Video 2 builds connection.
- Video 3 delivers value.
- Video 4 solves problems.
- Video 5 sparks conversation.
Together? They create a complete experience. New visitors can watch two or three videos and understand exactly what your channel offers and why you’re worth their time.
You’re not just posting content randomly. You’re building a brand. You’re creating a space where people feel understood and supported. You’re starting a creative journey that reflects who you are and what you care about.
And yes – you’re attracting subscribers who actually want to be there – and growing your channel.
So take a breath. Make a plan. And hit that record button.
Your first five videos are waiting to be made. And your future subscribers? They’re out there searching for exactly what you have to offer.
Let’s do this!
Next Steps: See the Video Creation Series
- How to Plan Your First 5 YouTube Videos (to attract subscribers)
- FAQ: Starting a Faceless YouTube Channel After 50 (+ video)
- 10 Common Mistakes New YouTubers Make (& how to avoid them)
- FAQ: Starting a YouTube Channel After 50
