Here’s a headline that might surprise you: according to a recent Nielsen report, YouTube has officially passed both Disney and Netflix in total TV viewing time. That’s right, more people are now watching YouTube on their TVs than some of the biggest streaming platforms.
YouTube Isn’t Just for Short Clips
Today, YouTube viewers are watching long-form content like:
- Tutorials
- Product demonstrations
- Interviews
- Podcasts
- Educational content
And they’re doing it right from their living room TVs, not just on their phones.
Why This Matters for Local Business
Your customers aren’t just scrolling social media. They’re actively using YouTube to research, learn, and solve problems. YouTube remains the second largest search engine behind Google. And YouTube videos often show up in Google search results too, giving your business even more visibility.
When someone needs help fixing something, learning a new skill, or researching a product or service, YouTube is often their first stop.
Video Content Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
You don’t need a full video production team or high-end studio. Start simple:
- Create a YouTube channel for your business.
- Upload short videos that answer common questions your customers ask.
- Share helpful tips related to your products or services.
- Stay consistent with small steps that build your library over time.
Even simple, authentic videos can build trust and help new customers discover your business.
The Bottom Line
Video content continues to grow in importance. Showing up where your customers are already spending time gives your business a big advantage. Start small, stay consistent, and build from there — without getting overwhelmed.
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Links in this episode: YouTube tops Disney and Netflix in TV viewing, Nielsen finds
