Kyle Jansen

I help creators who teach turn their business into a well-oiled growing machine. Learn more about how I can help you build a sustainable creator business here.

Tips & Tricks for Engaging Thumbnails & Titles

1. Crafting Compelling Titles

Creating titles that grab attention and drive clicks is crucial. But most evergreen videos also need to optimize for search so most of the time we need to balance both needs.

Here’s how to optimize them:

• Keep Titles Under 60 Characters: Viewers often browse YouTube quickly, so ensure your titles are <60 characters. Keeping titles short helps them stand out and ensures they are fully visible on mobile devices.

• Use Relevant Keywords: Keywords are essential for helping your content appear in search results and suggested videos. Use terms that resonate with your audience and have high search volume on Youtube.

  • Don’t overdo it though. Part of the title needs to be optimized for SEO, part optimized for the click. Here is a good example from Jake Bartlett:

  

• Leverage Curiosity: Build intrigue by suggesting valuable information or secrets that viewers can only get by watching. For example, use phrases like “The Secret to…” or “You’ll Never Guess How…” to make viewers curious enough to click. As shown above, Jake uses the title: The LAST graph editor tutorial you’ll ever need. Engaging, curious and catches the eye with the all caps.

• Make It About the Viewer: Frame your titles in a way that addresses your audience’s desires or pain points. Instead of focusing on the topic itself, emphasize the benefits, like “How You Can Monetize Your Art” or “Stop Making These Common Design Mistakes.”

• Include Numbers & Lists: Lists signal clear, structured content, which is particularly appealing in the educational and creative niches. Titles like “5 Essential Photography Tips” or “3 Ways to Improve Your Sketches”.

• Call Out Specific Audiences: Using phrases like “for Beginners” or “for Freelance creatives” makes your content feel targeted, which can increase engagement among niche groups looking for content tailored to their needs.

• Utilize Emotional Hooks: Words that evoke strong emotions or a sense of urgency, such as "Regret," "Dangerous," or "Unbelievable," tend to attract more attention. For example, “The Biggest Mistakes New Designers Make” adds a sense of drama that makes people want to learn more.

  • A good example from Brooke Glaser

  

2. Principles for Winning Thumbnails

Your thumbnail is your first chance to make an impression.  The biggest key is to differentiate the title from the thumbnail.  They should support each other, not repeat the same information.

Follow these principles:

• Focus on Three Key Elements: Attention, Trust, and Curiosity:
  • Attention: Use high-contrast images, vibrant colors, and bold elements that immediately catch the eye. Think of your thumbnail as a visual billboard—something that stands out even when people are scrolling quickly. Leverage art (if applicable) and visuals as much as possible.