Handles are not new to the social media world. In fact, they are used on other well-known platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Handles are used to give each channel a unique identifier, one which no other channel can use or copy. This makes it easy for users to engage with and find creators and brands. More importantly, they allow people to engage with the right channel and brand. Let’s check out our simple breakdown of how this change will affect your YouTube business account, and how to claim your handle.
YouTube Handles Are Here to Benefit Your Business
The ability to create an @handle is a game changer for YouTube brand channels. Previously, YouTube channels could be created with the same name as other channels. This means that bots and fake accounts could create channels with the same name as yours, and people looking for your brand or business could engage with the wrong channel.
The introduction of YouTube Handles for your business means that you will be able to engage with your audience much easier than before. Similar to how handles work on other platforms, your “@uniquebrandedname” can be used in comments, mentions, the search bar, and other areas of the site, to connect your business to your community. You will also be able to link your business’ handle on other platforms to direct people to your YouTube channel.
When & How Your Business Can Create Your Handle
Due to a large number of channels on YouTube, they are unable to switch everyone over to this new feature at the same time. Therefore, YouTube is gradually rolling out this change. In fact, they have already begun reaching out to channels via notifications in YouTube Studio. So if you have a YouTube Channel, check to see if you already received your notice there. If you have not, there is no need to panic. Google states that by November 14th everyone should receive the opportunity to create their handle. If you miss the deadline, YouTube will automatically create a handle for you.
If you want to change your handle, you can do so as long as the new one is not already in use. You can make this change at any time. Simply go to youtube.com/handle and there will be an option to change it. Expert tip: Keep your handle simple and keep it on brand. You want your handle to be an extension of your business’ identity.
For more information about handles, check out this video:
Take Your YouTube Business Account to The Next Level
So you have your unique handle set up, and you have your content figured out, perfect! You’re a step ahead of the rest already. However, if it seems that your content isn’t reaching the intended audience for your business, or you want to see what bringing an expert in can do for you, check out our Content Marketing Services and schedule a consult to see how we can leverage your YouTube Channel to your benefit.
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