Where do you think about video hosting?

Chances are, the first site that comes to mind is YouTube.

YouTube was founded in 2005 and has since become the world’s second-largest search engine. More and more, we realize that people want content in video format. They’re tired of reading long, text-heavy content that often lacks engagement and emotion. Video has the power to tell a story, capture attention, and make us feel something in a way that text simply cannot.

In this guide, I’m going to walk you through not only understanding the importance of video hosting but also the best practices for hosting your videos effectively.

Awareness vs. Conversion: Choosing the Right Platform

The first thing to consider is whether you want your videos to be awareness-focused or conversion-focused.

  • If you’re looking to maximize awareness and get the most views, YouTube is the best option. With its massive user base and powerful search engine optimization (SEO) capabilities, YouTube makes it easier for your content to be discovered organically.
  • But if your focus is on conversions, you need an alternative solution for hosting your videos that ensures viewers stay engaged with your business.

The Problem with Hosting Sales Videos on YouTube

One of the biggest challenges with YouTube is that once someone watches your video, they’re immediately shown recommended videos—often unrelated to your business. YouTube’s algorithm prioritizes content that keeps people on its platform, meaning viewers are more likely to get distracted by content that appeals to their interests rather than staying engaged with your message.

For example, if someone is passionate about underwater basket weaving, their next recommended video will likely be about that topic—not about your business. This is a serious problem when trying to convert viewers into leads and customers.

The Solution: Dedicated Video Landing Pages

Instead of relying on YouTube alone, the best approach for conversions is to host your videos on a dedicated landing page—a controlled environment designed to guide viewers toward a specific action.

A video landing page allows you to:

  • Embed your video in a distraction-free space.
  • Include clear calls to action (CTAs) that drive viewers to take the next step.
  • Offer additional curated content that aligns with your message.
  • Integrate AI-powered chat or FAQs to answer potential questions in real time.

This type of page functions like a sales funnel, leading viewers through a journey—from watching your video to engaging with your page, clicking on CTAs, and ultimately taking action, such as booking a meeting or making a purchase.

How to Drive Traffic to Your Videos

Once you’ve created your video landing page, you need to drive traffic effectively. Here’s how:

  • Email and SMS: Send video links directly to your prospects and customers.
  • LinkedIn and Social Media: Share the video in relevant groups, posts, and direct messages.
  • YouTube and Other Social Platforms: Use YouTube for discovery, but always include a CTA directing viewers to your dedicated landing page for more value.
  • Embedded Links: Add video links to blog posts, newsletters, and digital ads.

A great CTA might be: “Click the link below to watch a special training video with additional resources.” This strategy lets you leverage large platforms like YouTube while driving traffic to a space designed for conversions.

The Importance of Video Analytics

One of the most critical aspects of video hosting is tracking engagement. If you don’t know how people are interacting with your videos, you’re missing out on crucial data that can optimize your sales process.

With contact-level tracking, you can:

  • See who watched your video and for how long.
  • Identify which parts of your video they engaged with the most.
  • Track whether they clicked on your CTA or took action.

For example, if you send a video page to Susie Q, you should be able to know if she watched it and whether she clicked on your CTA.

Best Practices for Video Hosting

When creating and hosting videos, follow the HAVE method:

  • Hook: Capture attention in the first few seconds.
  • Address the problem: Show viewers that you understand their challenges.
  • Value: Provide a solution or insight that benefits them.
  • Extend a CTA: Encourage viewers to take action.

This framework ensures your videos are viewer-centric, making them more engaging and effective.

Thumbnails and Captions Matter

A compelling thumbnail can dramatically impact click-through rates. Options include:

  • Using the first frame of your video.
  • Selecting a high-quality frame from your video.
  • Designing a custom graphic with engaging text and visuals.

Additionally, enabling closed captions ensures accessibility and increases watch time, as many people watch videos without sound.

Conclusion

There are so many types of videos you can create to grow your business—tutorials, demos, testimonials, case studies, reviews, success stories, and more. The key is understanding your audience, providing value, and staying consistent.

And in the spirit of ending with a CTA, I invite you to check out a video hosting platform designed to drive conversions for your business. Click the link Get 7 Days Free Trial on Dubb and join us every weekday at 10 AM Pacific for live training on video hosting best practices and driving sales with video.