YouTube provides an excellent platform for creators to engage with their audience and promote content. One of the most effective ways to provide more resources to your viewers is by adding clickable links in your video description.
Understanding YouTube Description Links
A clickable link in a YouTube description is simply a URL that your viewers can click on directly to access another page, whether it’s a website, social media platform, or even another YouTube video. YouTube allows creators to add these links in the description section of their videos, which helps improve accessibility and engagement.
When you paste a link into the description box of a YouTube video, YouTube automatically recognizes it and turns it into a clickable link. However, to ensure the link works correctly and follows YouTube’s policies, it’s important to format and place it properly within your description.
Steps to Add Clickable Link in YouTube Description
Adding a clickable link in your YouTube description is simple and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Go to YouTube Studio
First, log in to your YouTube account. Once logged in, navigate to YouTube Studio by clicking on your profile icon at the top right corner of the screen and selecting YouTube Studio from the drop-down menu.
Step 2: Upload a Video or Edit an Existing Video
You must either upload a new video or edit an existing one to add a clickable link. If you’re uploading a new video, click the Create button (the camera icon with a plus sign) in the top right corner and select Upload video.
If you’re editing an existing video, go to the Videos section in YouTube Studio, locate the video you want to edit, and click the pencil icon next to the video.
Step 3: Locate the Description Box
Once you’re on the video upload or edit page, scroll down to find the Description box. You can add text, descriptions, and links related to your video.
Step 4: Paste the URL
In the description box, simply paste the URL (web address) you want to include. For example, if you link to your website, you can add https://www.yourwebsite.com or any other valid URL.
Step 5: Save the Changes
After adding your clickable link, save the changes by clicking the Save button in the top-right corner. This will update your video and make the clickable link visible to your viewers.
Once the link is added, YouTube will automatically recognize and make it clickable. You can test it by clicking on the link in the video description to ensure it works as intended.
Best Practices for Adding Clickable Links in YouTube Description
While it’s easy to add clickable links in YouTube descriptions, some best practices should be followed to maximize their effectiveness.
Make Links Relevant
It’s essential to ensure the links you include in your description are relevant to the content of your video. For example, if your video is about reviewing a product, it contains links to the product page or affiliate links. Providing relevant links improves the user experience and encourages viewers to engage with the content more effectively.
Use Clear Call-to-Actions
When adding clickable links, including a clear call-to-action (CTA) is a good practice. A CTA informs your audience of what they should do with the link. For instance, write “Check out our website for more details” or “Click here to subscribe to my newsletter.” A well-crafted CTA increases your viewers’ chances to click on the link.
Place Important Links at the Top
Since YouTube only shows the first few lines of the description on the video page, placing your most important links at the top is best. This way, viewers can see the link immediately without expanding the description. For example, if you want to direct viewers to a specific landing page, put that link in the first few lines of your description.
Avoid Spamming Links
While including multiple links in the description might seem tempting, YouTube’s policies prohibit spamming, including irrelevant or excessive links in video descriptions. Adding too many links or misleading links may result in your video being flagged or removed, so always ensure your links are meaningful and beneficial to your audience.
Track the Performance of Your Links
Trackable links, such as those with UTM parameters, can help you monitor how many people click on your links. Doing this lets you assess whether your clickable links drive traffic and conversions. Several link-shortening and tracking tools are available that allow you to add tracking codes to your links.
Include Social Media Links
Including your social media profiles in the YouTube video description is a great way to connect with your audience on other platforms. If you have a strong presence on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook, adding these links encourages viewers to follow you on those platforms, expanding your online reach.
How to Use Links Effectively for Marketing
Clickable links in the description of your videos can be powerful marketing tools when used effectively. Whether you’re promoting a product, a website, or even another video, there are numerous ways to utilize links to enhance your brand’s visibility and drive conversions.
Promote Affiliate Products
If you’re a YouTuber involved in affiliate marketing, you can use clickable links to promote products you recommend. You earn a commission when viewers click on the affiliate links and make purchases. Ensure you disclose affiliate links to your audience to maintain transparency and trust.
Drive Traffic to Your Website or Blog
YouTube is an excellent platform for directing traffic to your website. You can guide viewers to your landing pages, blogs, or other content by including links in your video descriptions. This can help you convert your YouTube audience into paying customers or leads for your business.
Promote Other Videos
If you have a library of content, you can promote your other videos by using clickable links in your video description. This strategy helps keep viewers on your channel and increases your chances of gaining more views and subscribers. By strategically linking to related videos, you can build a playlist and encourage longer watch times, which YouTube’s algorithm rewards.