Questions
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Isn't video content killer-link bait?
To me, this is a bit like finding a successful infographic and then asking "Isn't image content killer link bait?". Video, like image, is a medium for content delivery - rather than a type of content and this is how it should be considered in the context of link bait. Video content can be excellent link bait, but the form itself is not by default any more "linkable" than images, words or applications. "Linkbait video" it requires a specific approach which often doesn't tie in very well with commercial interests. For someone to link to a video, there has to be specific value in the experience of watching it through -- this can be an aesthetic experience, humour, instruction or exciting delivery of information. for more information and advice on what makes a "linkable" video - check out this blog post on the topic - http://www.distilled.net/blog/social-media/youtube/creating-awesome-videos-for-seo/ There are also some specific problems with using video for Link Bait If you don't secure your video properly, the content can be ripped and uploaded to YouTube. As you rightly pointed out, Youtube is the worlds second biggest search engine, which means that individuals will use it to find your video content, rather than your own site. This means that often a lot of your earned links will go to an erroneous YouTube channel, rather than the targeted domain. Video is invasive when embedded on a website. Unlike reading or looking at an image, watching a video is an active and engaged process. You cannot skim read a video and thus, if someone embeds a video on their site - it has to be because they want their readers to temporarily disengage from their own content and spend the time watching the thing through. People don't link to mediocre videos. The internet is awash with average video content, the vast majority of which is on YouTube and never gets watched or linked to be anyone. While you can always pick-up a few links with an average blog post, PDF document, infographic or plugin, run of the mill video will get you nowhere. So, yes, Video can be great link bait - but there's a lot of risks involved and you have to do an exceptional job really get the links coming in. I would encourage you to have a play and put something out there, but don't expect to get it right first time. Videos can be valuable even if they don't get links as they offer the opportunity for blended organic results, video results, exposure on YT and can help improve the overall richness and quality of your site.
Vertical SEO: Video, Image, Local | | PhilNottingham0