---
title: How Do I Make a Successful YouTube Video?
url: https://www.brightedge.com/glossary/successful-youtube-video
description: Unlock the secrets of what makes a good YouTube video that will rank in AI and classic search. Get insights on ideal length, eye-catching thumbnails, and more for success on the platform.
---

# How Do I Make a Successful YouTube Video?

## Definition
![Successful YouTube video](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/www.brightedge.com/sites/default/files/iStock_91797705_SMALL.jpg)
When a YouTube video gains a high number of views and strong engagement numbers, it has the potential to tremendously boost the brand. However, given that there is an estimated 300 hours of video uploaded each minute, it can be a struggle to get your video noticed.

Part of this challenge is creating [YouTube marketing materials](https://www.brightedge.com/content/youtube-in-search-marketing) that people will respond to and [optimizing YouTube videos](https://www.brightedge.com/content/optimizing-youtube-videos) correctly. The second part, however, is understanding the technical specifications of the most [successful videos](https://www.brightedge.com/content/how-to-measure-youtube-success) to ensure that the images themselves are clear, welcoming and engaging for viewers.

## What makes a successful YouTube video?
1. **Length:** Statistically, the ideal length is just under 3 minutes—2 minutes 54 seconds.
2. **Opening:** Your video will need to grab the attention of your viewer within 10 seconds. Studies have found that you will lose [33 percent](https://adage.com/article/digitalnext/optimal-length-video-content/299386/) of your visitors by 30 seconds, 45 percent by 1 minute and 60 percent by 2 minutes.
3. **Branding:** Including branded footage helps your viewers recognize your work.
4. **Thumbnail:** Find a frame that conveys the content and the emotion that is found in the video. Ideally, you want to find a frame that includes the main speaker looking directly at the viewer, as eye contact can be a powerful motivator and helps to engage users.
5. **Format:** Have a format that makes your video crisp and clear. Use MPEG-4 and keep your resolution around 1280 x 720 (16:9 HD) and 640 x 480 (4:3 SD) when possible.

Your YouTube video can have a fantastic impact on how you engage your audience and therefore your [Share of Voice](https://www.google.com/search?q=brightedge+share+of+voice&rlz=1C1GCEU_enUS825US825&oq=brightedge+share&aqs=chrome.0.35i39j69i57j69i60l3j0.3876j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8) and brand engagement. Following these guidelines can help make sure that your video obtains the maximum result.

## Related materials
- [How to succeed with YouTube SEO?](http://www.brightedge.com/blog/youtube-seo/)
- [What is the latest Google update?](http://www.brightedge.com/resources/research-reports/demystifying-google-four-ads-on-top)
- [How to create quality content that measurably performs?](http://www.brightedge.com/resources/white-papers/a-new-era-of-content)

[<< Back to the SEO Glossary main page](https://www.brightedge.com/glossary)

## Also of interest

- [What are YouTube Video Tags?](https://www.brightedge.com/glossary/should-you-create-youtube-video-tag)
- [YouTube SEO Optimization Tips: Rank For Video...](https://www.brightedge.com/glossary/youtube-seo-and-search-trends)
- [What is YouTube Advertising?](https://www.brightedge.com/glossary/youtube-advertising)

## Frequently Asked Questions
### What is the 30 second rule on YouTube?
The 30 second rule on YouTube emphasizes that viewers tend to lose interest quickly. Research indicates that up to 33% of viewers may drop off within the first 30 seconds of a video, which highlights the importance of capturing attention within that timeframe.

### What makes a good video on YouTube?
A good video on YouTube typically includes several key elements: it should be engaging within the first 10 seconds, not exceed the ideal length of just under 3 minutes, include clear branding, utilize an appealing thumbnail, and maintain a crisp format. These factors contribute significantly to viewer retention and engagement.