Lately, I’ve become addicted to watching YouTube videos.
I use the site for nearly everything, from learning new skills, to keeping up with important topics, to gaining insight into others’ mindsets, or simply entertaining myself. In the past few months, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve started watching a video on a topic intending to spend 10 minutes, then fallen down the binge-watching rabbit hole of consuming hours upon hours of content.
I’m amazed by the wealth of knowledge available at the click of a few keys. No matter what you’re wanting to learn - be it employee training tips, creative window display ideas or wedding fashion trends – it’s there, typically from a variety of sources who each approach the topic in unique ways.
The possibilities are endless for how you could use this site to enhance your business. In addition to learning or teaching about any topic, you could also create your own channel, either in the name of your store or in your personal name. This is where the secondary opportunities really get exciting. On page 106 of our July/August issue, we have a story that details the basics you need to start a successful YouTube channel, and the cool things that can happen because of it. Many boutique owners, stylists and other industry experts have already done so, and you can watch their content to gain even more inspiration and ideas.
Social media is crucial for boutiques, but YouTube’s purpose and therefore potential is a bit different. Yes, you can and should use it to grow your customer base, expand your local following and even train employees. But you can also create a secondary brand/income for yourself while doing all of those things, which is what makes it so cool!
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic and, if you decide to start a YouTube channel or already have one, please let me know what it is so I can subscribe!