Video Hosting and SEO

[greenergrassmarketing]

Generally speaking self hosting of video is good for SEO.  But if a client has a weekly/daily webshow that they will be launching (from scratch), how should we handle the hosting? Is onsite still better? Should we use Youtube to start and gain traction and than swtich once we have built viewership or Should we use self hosted video and than post it to Youtube at a later date?

[matbennett]

Why do you say that the self hosting of video is better for SEO?  I'd disagree.

I'd much rather host it with a specialised service that ensures fast streaming, widespread CDNs etc. Hosting elsewhere doesn't have to mean letting them compete against you with your own video like youtube.  Vimeo is a good and affordable solution for video hosting that doesn't self publish all the videos.

[greenergrassmarketing]

By "self-hosting" I meat using a service like Vimeo or Wistia to have that content be associated w/ your domain as opposed to youtube. I apologize for using the incorrect term in my rush to ask the question! Thanks Matt.

[somes]

It's important to keep in mind that you can't host (certain) videos intended for commercial use on Vimeo, unless you get the PRO membership for ca. $200 a year and it complies with the PRO guidelines.

You can read all about it here:

https://vimeo.com/help/guidelines

[greenergrassmarketing]

I tend to use Wistia over Vimeo for that exact reason, it reduces client confusion and time for answers, Not to mention their restrictions on size and bandwidth for the 200 level pro membership! Great Tip.