The Complete Guide to Getting Your YouTube Channel Accepted into Google AdSense in 2017 (and Beyond!)
Many YouTubers dream of monetizing their channels through Google AdSense. It's a fantastic way to turn your passion into profit, but getting accepted can feel like navigating a maze. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough, covering everything you need to know to increase your chances of approval in 2017 (and the strategies remain relevant today!).
Understanding Google AdSense Requirements
Before diving into strategies, it's crucial to understand the core requirements. Google AdSense isn't just about having a YouTube channel; it requires meeting specific criteria:
- Account Eligibility: You must be at least 18 years old and reside in a country where AdSense is supported.
- YouTube Channel Requirements: Your channel needs to be in good standing, meaning no copyright strikes or community guideline violations.
- Sufficient Content: While there's no magic number, having a substantial amount of original, high-quality content is essential. This usually translates to a significant number of videos (at least 10-15 is a good starting point) that are at least 10 minutes long. Think quality over quantity.
- Authenticity: Your content should be unique and not violate copyright laws. Re-uploaded videos or content stolen from others will almost certainly lead to rejection.
- Audience Engagement: High view counts aren't enough; you need audience interaction. Comments, likes, and subscriptions are vital indicators of a successful and engaging channel.
Optimizing Your YouTube Channel for AdSense Approval
Here's a breakdown of strategies to significantly boost your chances:
1. Craft High-Quality, Engaging Content
This is arguably the most important aspect. Focus on creating videos that:
- Solve a Problem: Address viewers' needs, questions, or interests.
- Provide Value: Offer insightful information, entertainment, or education.
- Are Well-Produced: Good audio and video quality are essential. Invest in decent equipment if your budget allows.
- Maintain Consistency: Regularly upload new videos to keep viewers engaged and show Google that you're committed to your channel.
2. Build a Strong Community
Interacting with your audience is crucial:
- Respond to Comments: Engage with your viewers. Answering questions and acknowledging their feedback shows you care.
- Encourage Interaction: Ask questions in your video descriptions and encourage viewers to leave comments.
- Create Playlists: Organize your videos into themed playlists to enhance viewer experience and encourage longer watch times.
3. Channel Branding and Optimization
A professional-looking channel significantly improves credibility:
- Compelling Channel Art: Use high-quality, eye-catching images for your channel art and video thumbnails.
- About Section: Clearly describe your channel and its content.
- Keywords: Optimize your video titles, descriptions, and tags with relevant keywords. Focus on long-tail keywords to target niche audiences.
4. Adhere to YouTube's Community Guidelines and Copyright Laws
This is non-negotiable. Any violation can lead to immediate rejection and even channel termination. Ensure that all your content is original or properly licensed.
5. Patience and Persistence
Getting approved for AdSense takes time. Focus on creating excellent content, building your audience, and following all the guidelines. Don't get discouraged if you're not approved immediately; keep improving your channel, and your chances will increase.
Conclusion:
Getting your YouTube channel accepted into Google AdSense requires effort and dedication. By focusing on creating high-quality content, building a strong community, and adhering to all guidelines, you significantly improve your chances of success. Remember, creating a successful YouTube channel is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay consistent, and you'll eventually reach your monetization goals.
