Small creators have struggled to gain traction on YouTube for years, overshadowed by massive, well-established channels. The algorithm seemed to favor big names, bringing them more views and watch time, which left newcomers feeling like they were shouting into the void.
But things are changing and YouTube is making a concerted effort to push new creators, giving them a real shot at success.
You may have noticed one or two videos recently on your own YouTube homepage with very few views from totally new creators. In the video above, Rob points out a few of these instances on YouTube and examines what this could all mean for smaller creators.
Read More: 10 Things Every Small YouTube Channel Can Improve
YouTube’s algorithm has always been a mystery, but one thing is clear: the platform thrives on fresh, engaging content. Viewers constantly crave something new, and YouTube knows that relying solely on veteran creators isn't sustainable.
Now, the recommendation system actively prioritizes new content from up-and-coming channels, ensuring a steady influx of fresh perspectives. This shift has opened doors for small creators, allowing them to compete with bigger names like never before.
Read More: The Secret to Standing Out as a Small YouTube Creator
While YouTube is making it easier for new creators to get noticed, growth isn’t automatic. Social proof makes all the difference when it comes to clicking on videos for viewers. People naturally trust videos with higher engagement. A video with 1,000 views looks more credible than one with 50 views, even if the content quality is the same.
This can lead to a vicious cycle where the lack of visibility keeps hindering your growth and your content keeps getting pushed further back in the recommendation queue. So, it’s important to constantly improve all aspects of your content creation process steadily to avoid the trap!
Overcoming this initial credibility gap is tough, but not impossible. Smart creators use click-worthy thumbnails, compelling titles, and strong storytelling to make people want to watch—regardless of subscriber count.
Think about traditional television—networks like Fox wouldn't rely on a single aging show like The Simpsons forever. They introduce new series to keep viewers engaged.
YouTube operates the same way. If it only pushed the biggest channels, the platform would become stale. By promoting new and small creators, YouTube ensures that fresh, diverse content keeps audiences entertained.
Believe it or not, YouTube tracks how well new creators perform. If small channels never gained traction, the platform would risk stagnation.
To prevent this, the algorithm actively boosts new creators—especially those producing high-retention content that keeps viewers watching. This means small creators who focus on engaging storytelling, clear delivery, and audience retention can leverage YouTube’s algorithm to their advantage.
YouTube’s recommendation system now works smarter than ever. If a viewer watches content within a specific niche, the algorithm is more likely to suggest videos from lesser-known creators in that same category.
For example, if someone binge-watches finance tutorials, YouTube won’t just recommend content from creators like Graham Stephan, just because they get high numbers. Instead, it will surface relevant content from small but promising channels that align with that interest.
This is huge for small creators because if you’re creating high-quality content in a niche, your videos have a real chance of being discovered.
YouTube doesn’t just promote big channels; it listens to the audience. If viewers engage with a video by watching longer, clicking on recommendations, or subscribing, the algorithm takes that as a signal to push that creator’s content further.
This means that small creators who deliver value, hold attention, and spark engagement can quickly rise even without a massive following.
Want to maximize your chances of getting promoted by YouTube? Here are three key strategies:
A little-known hack is to create a separate YouTube account that watches only videos in your niche. By doing this, you train YouTube’s algorithm to recognize your content as relevant to that topic.
For example, if you create content about personal finance, use this dummy account to watch finance-related videos from other small creators. Over time, YouTube will start associating your channel with that niche—giving you a better shot at getting recommended.
Jumping between unrelated topics confuses both the algorithm and your audience. If you want to grow, pick a niche and commit to it. If you start a channel about YouTube growth strategies, and then suddenly pivot to fitness, your audience (and the algorithm) won’t know what to expect.
Read More: The 54 Best YouTube Niches, According to Viewers
If you’re not sure about picking a niche yet, choose something you’re passionate about, knowledgeable in, and willing to create content on for the long haul. This way, you won’t burn out, and your audience will keep coming back for more.
Even if YouTube is pushing new creators, your videos need to perform well to stay in the algorithm’s favor.
Thumbnails & Titles – Make them eye-catching and curiosity-driven. If people don’t click, YouTube won’t promote your content.
Watch Time & Retention – Keep viewers watching by using storytelling, hooks, and smooth pacing.
Engagement Signals – Encourage likes, comments, and shares to boost video visibility.
YouTube is actively helping new creators get discovered, but success isn’t automatic. This is your moment.
If you’ve been hesitant about starting a channel, now is the time to take action. The playing field is shifting, and those who adapt will win. So, get out there, start creating, and make the most of YouTube’s push for small creators. Your audience is waiting.
In addition to being an avid movie and gaming enthusiast, Uttaran Samaddar is an experienced writer who has lent his creativity and unique perspective to various publications. He loves hearing and telling stories.
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