Earn money from your Youtube vidoes

If you have a Youtube account, and upload original videos, you could be earning through the Youtube Partner Programme.

Youtube is one of the first great examples of viral content distribution which, soon after Google's acquisition, became monetised through Google Advertising. Youtube has produced and perpetuated creative talent, has aided emerging cult stars and has helped in the promotional efforts of established bands, comedians, actors and public figures. And it's free.

For us, as your video "goes viral" in its circulation, thousands of people will be exposed not only to your videos but also to any additional links and information you include on the page. If you're lucky enough to have that many unique viewers of your work, its an ideal opportunity to get some Google Ads in front of them which will pay you, as a publisher, per click.

First of all read this article about monetising your content through Google Adsense. And once you've read it, realise that content is not limited to the written word, but wholeheartedly includes video and has already proved itself. The ads displayed inside Youtube videos can be associated with your Google Adsense publisher code, meaning that any ad clicks generated by your viewers is attributed to you.

Think about it. Youtube already has massive international distribution, millions of videos uploaded, a thriving community and sports the business muscle flexed by the mighty Google. In addition, you can sign up free, upload as many videos as you like, and then promote these on social media sites such as digg and delicious, or embed in your own site. Who knows, you might even get lucky and not have to do anything if your video is original enough to attract viewers.

As stated on the Youtube Partner site, you should apply to the program if:

1. You create original videos suitable for online streaming.
2. You own the copyrights and distribution rights for all audio and video content that you upload - no exceptions.
3. You regularly upload videos that are viewed by thousands of YouTube users.

At the very least you should set up an Adsense account and associate it with your Youtube account. Then apply to the Youtube Partners program for greater distribution and the embedding of ads in your video content. If you get rejected, what have you lost? The time it takes to fill out registration forms? You can reapply every two months during which time you can upload new videos and promote them; you might get a lot of viewers, get accepted into the programme and ads will be served up within your content.

Perhaps you’re already working on a great video, and it might be the next big thing.

Tips

• You need to be getting about a thousand views per day
  
• You need to upload videos on a regular basis
  
• Be careful what you upload. The terms and conditions are frequently violated on Youtube.
• Getting your video removed because of copyright infringement could put your Adsense publisher status in jeopardy.
• If you're a musician, consider uploading your songs.
  
• Having a visible watermark link in every frame of video will at least let people know where you're at.
  
• You can apply every two months.

Useful links

Sign up for Adsense
Sign up for Youtube
The YouTube Partner Programme: Cash in on your creativity
Youtube Partner help center