In this post, I am going to walk you through the simple steps to create a YouTube channel. If you already have a Google or Gmail account, you are ready to get started. If you do not have a Gmail account yet, I recommend creating that first, as YouTube is part of the Google ecosystem.
I also have a separate video tutorial on how to create a Gmail account, so if you need help with that stage, you can watch that first and then come back to this guide to set up your YouTube channel. I also have a video on how to add a subscribe button or watermark to your YouTube channel.
You can also see my post and video, along with other posts on my Facebook page.
Why Create a YouTube Channel?
YouTube is one of the best platforms for building an online presence, generating leads, and creating long-term assets for your business. Once your channel is set up, you can use it to:
- Share helpful tutorials and how-to videos.
- Build trust with your audience through regular content.
- Promote your website, products, or affiliate offers.
- Create another income stream over time through YouTube and related opportunities.
If you are looking to use YouTube as part of a wider online business strategy, you may also find this post helpful:
How To Start Making Money Online In 48 Hours.
What You Need Before You Start
To create a YouTube channel, you will need:
- A Google account (Gmail address).
- Access to YouTube on a computer, laptop, or mobile device.
- A channel name idea (this can be your own name or a brand name).
- Optional: a profile picture and a banner image ready to upload.
If you do not yet have a Gmail account, watch my video on how to create a Gmail account first. Once that is set up, you can follow the steps below.
Step 1: Sign In To YouTube
First of all, go to YouTube.
- Click on the Sign in button in the top right-hand corner.
- Enter your Gmail address and password.
- If you are already signed in with a different Google account, click your profile circle and use the Switch account option or click Add account to sign in with the Google account you want to use for your new channel.
Once you are signed in, you are ready to create your YouTube channel.
Step 2: Create Your Channel
With your Google account now active on YouTube, you can create your channel:
- Click on your profile circle in the top right corner.
- Select Create a channel from the drop-down menu.
- You will be given the option to use your name or a custom name. You can:
- Use your own name (useful for a personal brand).
- Use a custom name for a business, niche, or project.
- Choose your preferred option and follow the on-screen instructions.
- Click Create channel.
At this point YouTube will create your new channel and assign a handle (for example, @yourchannelname). If the handle you want is available, you can use it straight away.
Step 3: Open YouTube Studio
Next, we will customise the look and basic information of your channel.
- Click on your profile circle again.
- Select YouTube Studio.
- On the left-hand side, click on Customisation.
This is where you can adjust your layout, branding, and basic channel information.
Step 4: Add Your Profile Picture
In the Branding tab inside the Customisation area, you can add your profile picture.
- Click on the option to upload a profile picture.
- Select your image from your computer.
- The recommended size for your profile image is a square, for example 800 x 800 pixels.
- YouTube will display your profile picture as a circle, so make sure the main part of your image is centred.
Once you are happy with your profile picture, click Publish or Save to keep your changes.
Step 5: Add Your Banner Image
Still in the Branding tab, you can upload your channel banner image. This is the large image at the top of your channel page.
- The recommended banner size is 2560 x 1440 pixels.
- There is a central “safe area” where your text and key information should sit, as this is what is shown on most devices.
In practice, YouTube banners can sometimes be a bit fiddly to get right, because they are viewed on phones, tablets, laptops, and TVs. It can take a bit of experimenting to get everything looking how you want it. Do not worry if it is not perfect the first time; you can always come back and change it later.
Once you have uploaded your banner and adjusted the crop to your liking, click Publish to save the changes.
Step 6: Add Basic Channel Information
Next, click on the Basic info tab inside the Customisation area. Here you can add some important information about your channel.
- Channel description: Write a short paragraph explaining what your channel is about, who it is for, and what type of content you will be uploading.
- Channel handle: Confirm or edit your handle if you want to change it (subject to availability).
- Links: Add links to your website and social media pages. These can appear on your channel banner.
- Email address: If you want people to be able to contact you for business enquiries, you can add an email address.
If you are planning to use YouTube to support your wider online business, you may also like this post:
Why Wealthy Affiliate Training Really Works.
Step 7: Add a Video Watermark (Optional)
YouTube also allows you to add a small watermark in the corner of your videos. This can be a logo or a simple image that encourages people to subscribe.
- In the Branding tab, look for the Video watermark section.
- Upload your watermark image.
- Choose when you want it to appear (for example, during the entire video).
I have a separate video that shows how to add a video watermark step by step, which I will link in the description area of the YouTube video.
Step 8: Save and Publish Your Changes
Once you have added your profile picture, banner image, description, links, and any other details, make sure you click Publish or Save so that all your changes go live.
It is a good idea to save regularly as you work, just in case anything stops responding or you need to refresh the page.
Step 9: Plan Your First Videos
With your channel now created and set up, the next step is to start uploading useful content. You do not need everything to be perfect before you begin. In fact, the most important thing is to get started and improve as you go.
You might like to record:
- A simple introduction video explaining who you are and what your channel is about.
- A helpful tutorial video that solves a problem for your audience.
- A short video that directs people to your website, mailing list, or main offer.
If you are looking for ideas on using YouTube and websites together to grow an online business, you may find this useful:
What Is Wealthy Affiliate?
Final Thoughts
Creating a YouTube channel is not as complicated as it might seem. Once you have your Google account in place, it is simply a matter of following a few steps to set up your channel, add your branding, and start publishing content.
If you have any questions about creating your YouTube channel or want help with the next steps, feel free to leave a comment on my video or get in touch. I am always happy to help people move forward with their online journey.