Creating YouTube videos isn’t just about uploading content consistently — it’s about doing it strategically.

If your watch time is low, your views aren’t growing, or your subscribers aren’t sticking around… it might not be your content idea that’s the problem.
It’s what you’re doing inside your videos.

At Metly Media, we’ve edited and analyzed hundreds of high-performing videos across creators, coaches, and brands. And we’ve noticed a few common patterns that hurt performance — even in great videos.

So, if you’re serious about growing your YouTube channel, it’s time to stop doing these five things.

1. Wasting the First 10 Seconds With long Intros

Here’s the harsh truth:
You have 3–5 seconds to hook a viewer — or they’ll click off.

Yet so many creators start like this:

“Hey everyone, welcome back to my channel. In today’s video, we’re going to talk about something really exciting that I think you’re going to love…”

No. One. Cares. Yet.

Instead, hook them immediately.
Start with a problem, a bold statement, a strong curiosity gap.

✅ Say this instead:

“You’re probably making this mistake in every video — and it’s killing your views.”

“If your content’s not growing, this might be why — let me show you.”

Once they’re in, then you can say “Hey, I’m [Name], and let’s break this down.”

2. Dragging Out the Outro Like It’s a Podcast

Here’s what a weak outro looks like:

“So yeah, that’s it for today’s video. Hope you liked it. Let me know your thoughts in the comments. And don’t forget to like and subscribe. See you in the next one...”

This rambling exit adds zero value and often leads to a drop in retention before the end of the video.

Instead, keep your outro tight, purposeful, and strategic.

✅ A better outro:

“If you found this helpful, you’ll love this next video right here. Go watch it now.”

This keeps people watching — which boosts your session time, a huge signal for the algorithm.

Pro tip: use end screens with an actual recommended video, not just your logo.

3. Begging for Likes and Subs Too Early (or at the Wrong Time)

We get it — you want to grow your channel.
But asking for likes and subs in the first 10 seconds is a rookie move.

Why would a cold viewer like and subscribe… before they’ve seen the value?

Instead, earn the action first, then make the ask at a strategic point — like:

• Right after delivering a valuable tip

• Between segments as a quick mid-roll

• At the end with a compelling reason

✅ Say this:

“If this saved you time, give it a like — it helps more than you think.”
“If you want more content like this every week, hit subscribe so you don’t miss it.”

Make your CTA about the viewer, not about you.

4. Using the Same Thumbnail Template Every Time

Your thumbnail is your video’s first impression.
And if you’re using the exact same style, layout, face pose, or background in every video… your audience will scroll right past it. Even your loyal subscribers.

Why?

Because our brains filter out what feels repetitive or predictable.

A consistent style is good for branding, yes. But consistency should not mean laziness.

✅ Mix it up:

• Use a different facial expression or camera angle

• Switch up your background color or subject placement

• Add a curiosity-driven word or visual element

• Zoom in or out — even small variations help

Your thumbnail’s job isn’t to look “nice” — it’s to make someone stop scrolling.

5. Not Respecting Viewer’s Time (AKA Overexplaining)

This one’s brutal — but necessary:

Most creators talk too much.

If you find yourself repeating the same point three times, explaining something that could’ve been shown visually, or adding filler just to hit a time target — you’re losing people.

Today’s audience values clarity and momentum. They want value quickly, cleanly, and creatively.

✅ Do this instead:

• Trim your script during editing — remove 10–20% of fluff

• Use B-roll or graphics instead of overexplaining

• Break long sections into chapters or bullets

The tighter your pacing, the better your watch time and retention — which helps your video get recommended more.

You don’t need better gear.
You don’t need to post more often.
You just need to optimize the videos you’re already making.

That’s what top creators do — they’re not just making videos.
They’re crafting experiences that retain viewers, drive clicks, and grow a brand.

And if you want help turning your raw footage into scroll-stopping, algorithm-friendly content…

🎥 Metly Media is here to be your behind-the-scenes content team.

Let’s create videos that don’t just look good — they work.
Visit MetlyMedia.com to get started.