What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think about video monetization techniques? Most content creators/publishers think that launching a YouTube channel is the only way to start monetizing videos. But if you’ve ever tried your hands at becoming a YouTuber, you’d know that it isn't a cakewalk.
With more video creators jumping on the YouTube bandwagon, it’s becoming an increasingly competitive platform. It could take months or even years before you build a big community of loyal subscribers. Also, YouTube’s changing policies regarding revenue sharing make it difficult to earn a sustainable living from your videos in the long run.
The good news is that there are plenty of other avenues to start monetizing your videos. From creating an OTT app to negotiating sponsorship deals -- there are numerous ways to earn from videos.
How to Start Monetizing Your Videos
Video monetization refers to the techniques of earning from video content by allowing one or more of the following:
In the following sections, we’ll discuss some of the most powerful video monetization techniques.
1. Launch Your OTT Platform
OTT (over-the-top) platforms, such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video, are all the rage right now. If you’ve already made your mark as a video content creator, it’s high time you start building your OTT platform. It’s a great alternative to solely relying on advertising revenue from your YouTube channel.
The best part is that creating and deploying an OTT platform isn’t rocket science. You just have to use an SaaS solution, such as MAZ Systems, to build your app. We provide you with an intuitive drag-and-drop app builder to create an awesome-looking OTT app without delving into coding. You can even design a website for your OTT platform and leverage our video hosting service without any technical expertise.
Image via MAZ Systems
When it comes to monetization, there are three ways to earn from videos on your OTT platform:
While SVOD involves charging a monthly or annual subscription fee from viewers, AVOD involves earning revenue from advertisers. On the other hand, TVOD is the technique of giving viewers access to premium content in exchange for a fee. You can provide them with lifetime access to gated content or let them rent it for a fixed period.
Depending on your niche and target users, you can choose one or more of these monetization techniques. When you use MAZ to build your OTT platform, you can easily implement different monetization methods and payment options.
2. Become an Affiliate Marketer
If you already have a thriving YouTube channel, affiliate marketing is a fail-safe way to start monetizing your videos. Simply put, you have to include links to specific products in the video’s description.
Whenever a viewer clicks on an affiliate link and makes a purchase, you’ll earn a commission. It is, however, essential to choose products and brands that are relevant for your viewers. You also should organically incorporate the products into your content and include a clear affiliate disclosure.
3. Find a Sponsor
This is another useful video monetization strategy for creators who have built a loyal audience. Unlike affiliate marketing, a sponsorship deal involves a brand paying you to feature their products or services in your content. However, you must make sure you don’t compromise the quality of your content to promote the brand.
4. Sell Your Online Course
Have you established your reputation and authority as a niche video creator? Then chances are your viewers would be willing to pay and learn from you.
Use this to your advantage by developing and launching your online course. Make sure you choose a meaningful topic that’ll immediately attract your audience.
Choosing the Right Video Monetization Technique
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy to start monetizing your videos. While a YouTube channel might seem like the most obvious choice, you should explore other avenues, such as OTT platforms and affiliate marketing. Get a clear idea of your goals and audience before you choose a monetization technique.
Finally, to build an OTT platform from scratch, you can get in touch with us.
