Not getting the views you expected on your YouTube Shorts? You’re definitely not the only one. With so many creators vying for attention, standing out can be challenging. Even though YouTube Shorts has taken off, with over 1.5 billion monthly users, many creators find their views suddenly dropping after an initial spike.
It’s frustrating, right? You upload a Short, the views start climbing, and then—boom—everything slows down. What’s going on? Chances are, it’s got something to do with how the YouTube Shorts algorithm works. But don’t worry, there are things you can do to turn this around.
In this guide, we’ll look at why your Shorts might not be performing as well as you’d like. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of what’s going wrong—and, more importantly, how to fix it.
Ready to give your YouTube Shorts the boost they deserve? Let’s get started.
Why You’re Not Getting Views on YouTube Shorts and How to Fix?
YouTube Algorithm Ignores Your Shorts
One major reason your YouTube Shorts might not be getting views is that they aren’t benefiting from the YouTube algorithm. This can happen for a number of reasons—like missing essential metadata, poorly optimized captions, or low engagement.
For example, if your Shorts lack key elements such as descriptions, proper titles, or relevant tags, you’re putting yourself at a disadvantage. YouTube’s algorithm relies on this information to understand, categorize, and show your content to the right audience.
Also, if your analytics show low watch time or engagement, the algorithm might interpret your content as less valuable, making it less likely to promote your videos.
Useful Fixes
Make sure you include all the important details when uploading your Shorts. Also, use relevant keywords to optimize them, giving your videos a better shot at getting noticed by YouTube’s algorithm.
Using Irrelevant or Wrong Hashtags
Hashtags play a big role in making your YouTube Shorts more discoverable, but they’re only effective if used properly. This means double-checking for spelling errors and ensuring your hashtags are directly related to your content.
A common mistake people make is adding too many random keywords to their hashtags, thinking it will boost visibility. In reality, this can hurt your chances. Google’s algorithm frowns upon keyword stuffing and favors hashtags that are naturally integrated into your content.
It’s also smart to include a few branded hashtags to help build your brand and improve recognition. However, be careful not to overdo it, as too many can come off as spammy and reduce the impact of your content.
Useful Fixes
The key is to research the most relevant hashtags for your content and use a mix of popular and niche-specific ones. Stick to using three to five hashtags per post, and make sure to update them as trends change to keep them relevant.
Incorrect Video Format
Shorts, much like Instagram Reels, are designed for vertical videos that are 60 seconds or less. A common mistake, however, is uploading horizontal or landscape videos. This not only reduces the visual impact by shrinking the video on-screen, but it also leaves awkward black bars at the top and bottom.
As a result, viewers may be less inclined to watch the video all the way through or engage with it, ultimately hurting your overall engagement rates.
Useful Fixes
Always film your Shorts vertically, ideally in a 9:16 ratio. This ensures your video aligns with YouTube Shorts’ specifications, giving it the best chance to gain more views and engagement.
Exceeding Ideal Video Length
Ever heard the phrase “less is more?” It couldn’t be more accurate when it comes to YouTube Shorts. While you’re allowed to post videos up to 60 seconds, you really don’t need to use the entire time.
The truth is, most people don’t have the attention span to stick around for a full minute unless the content is incredibly engaging. In fact, studies show the average attention span is only about 47 seconds.
That’s why it’s important to think of 47 seconds as the upper limit. Ideally, you want your videos to be even shorter if you’re aiming to keep viewers hooked.
Useful Fixes
To boost views and engagement, focus on lowering your bounce rate. The best way to do this is by creating engaging content that captures attention within 15-30 seconds.
Irregular Content Posting
If your goal is to grow on social media, whether it’s to start earning money or partnering with brands, consistency is key. Posting just a few videos here and there won’t cut it if you’re aiming for an increase in views.
Success on YouTube or any social platform requires regular content. The more videos you put out, the better your chances of catching on and going viral, which can lead to more followers and views.
Useful Fixes
Set up a content calendar to stay organized with your video production. Aim to post two to three Shorts each week to show the algorithm you’re consistently delivering quality content. This approach also helps you streamline the process and focus on producing higher-quality videos, which can lead to more views.
Upgrade Content Quality
The number of views your YouTube Shorts receive is closely tied to the quality of the content you upload, just like with long-form videos. If your videos are shaky or have poor audio quality, viewers are more likely to scroll past in search of something better, making it hard to rack up views.
Some creators might cut corners on quality because Shorts is a newer feature, but that approach can backfire. In the long run, focusing on quality over quantity is the smarter choice if you want to boost your views and engagement.
Useful Fixes
Focus on the quality of the videos you record and post. Using a tripod can help keep your shots steady, and a good microphone will greatly improve your audio, which is crucial for a great viewer experience.
You don’t need to spend a lot—there are affordable options that work well. The goal is to consistently produce high-quality content to keep your audience engaged.
Impatience with Video Growth
If you’re doing everything right—producing high-quality content and optimizing your videos carefully—but your Shorts still aren’t getting the views you’d expect, it might just be a matter of giving them time to gain traction.
Much like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts has become highly competitive since its launch. Sometimes, it takes a while for the algorithm to start working in your favor, especially if you’re new to posting on the platform.
Useful Fixes
Patience and consistency are essential. There’s no set timeline for when your Shorts will gain traction or go viral. However, consistently producing high-quality content will definitely improve your chances. When success comes, it will make all the effort worthwhile.
Final thoughts
Creating content can be more challenging than it appears, especially when you’re just starting out. There are many factors to consider, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a beginner.
If you’ve been making Shorts but aren’t getting the views you’d like, take a closer look at the scenarios outlined in this guide. By tackling this issue step-by-step, you can identify mistakes and enhance both the quality and consistency of your content production.