YouTube Posts: What They Are and How SMACC Creators Can Use Them Strategically
Introduction
YouTube is no longer just a video platform—it’s a community space. One of the key tools enabling this transformation is the YouTube Posts feature (formerly “Community Posts”). While it’s not brand new, 2024-2025 has seen major updates that make it more powerful and accessible than ever.
This article explains what YouTube Posts are, how they work, their benefits and limitations, and how SMACC members—whether newcomers or experienced creators—can use them to grow and engage their audiences.
What Is the YouTube Posts Feature?
YouTube Posts are social-style updates creators can publish directly to their channel’s Community tab. They appear in subscribers’ feeds, notifications, and even on the YouTube homepage. Think of it as similar to a Facebook or Instagram post—but on YouTube.
Types of content you can share in a Post:
- Text updates
- Images
- GIFs
- Polls (up to 5 options)
- Video links (including teasers to old or upcoming videos)
- Countdown timers (for upcoming premieres or events)
- Quizzes (new as of late 2024)
Who Can Use It?
As of mid-2024, YouTube has lowered the access threshold:
✅ Any channel with 500 subscribers or more can use YouTube Posts.
✅ Posts are enabled automatically, but creators can check in YouTube Studio > Settings > Channel > Feature Eligibility.
Why Should SMACC Members Use YouTube Posts?
Here’s how this feature can significantly enhance your reach and engagement:
🔹
1. Maintain Visibility Between Uploads
Creators often lose momentum between videos. Posts keep your channel active in viewers’ feeds.
Example:
“New travel vlog drops Friday! Guess where I am? 🌍” [with a poll or teaser image]
🔹
2. Build Community and Brand
Posting questions, behind-the-scenes content, or thoughts reinforces your identity and creates loyalty.
Example:
“Should I review Lisbon’s best coffee spots next? Vote below 👇”
🔹
3. Promote Old or Underrated Videos
Resurface valuable content to new subscribers or during a relevant news moment.
Example:
“Missed this interview from our Algarve series? It’s still 🔥” [with video link]
🔹
4. Test Ideas or Titles Before Filming
Use polls to validate ideas before investing time.
Example:
“Next week’s video: Should I focus on 📱content creation apps or 🎙microphone setups?”
🔹
5. Prepare Your Audience for Launches
Building hype with countdowns and pre-announcements boosts algorithm favorability.
Example:
“Only 2 days until our next live premiere! Set your reminders ⏰”
Do’s and Don’ts of Using YouTube Posts
✅
DO:
- Post consistently (1–3x per week is ideal)
- Use images or polls—they grab attention
- Include calls-to-action (“Vote now”, “Watch this”, “Tell me your thoughts”)
- Match your tone to your video brand
- Respond to comments—YouTube ranks posts with higher interaction
- Repurpose content from other platforms like Instagram Stories or X/Twitter
❌
DON’T:
- Spam links or affiliate offers—YouTube may limit reach
- Use misleading or clickbait polls (it erodes trust)
- Post too frequently with low engagement (it may reduce impressions)
- Treat Posts like a dumping ground—each one should offer value
Tips for Maximizing Effectiveness
🧠
Understand the Algorithm
Posts are shown to active subscribers who frequently engage with your content. Boost this by:
- Posting after new video uploads
- Creating a pattern (e.g., Monday post, Wednesday video)
📊
Use Polls to Increase Engagement
Polls can see 2–10x more engagement than simple text posts. Even non-subscribers who interact with them may be shown your videos.
📱
Optimize for Mobile
Most users will see your Post on mobile. Use punchy headlines, vertical-friendly images, and emojis to draw attention.
Risks and Limitations
While Posts are low-risk compared to video content, there are still things to watch:
| Risk | Explanation | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Low engagement = fewer impressions | If nobody reacts, YouTube stops showing Posts | Post when your audience is active; add value |
| Post clutter | Too many Posts can make your Community tab messy | Use formatting, images, or spacing |
| Shadow suppression | Spammy or external-link-heavy posts may be restricted | Avoid affiliate-only content or daily links |
| Subscriber fatigue | Repetitive or irrelevant Posts can turn people off | Plan a content calendar like your videos |
Best Practice: SMACC Member Example
Let’s say you’re a travel creator based in Portugal:
| Time | Action |
|---|---|
| Monday | Poll: “Where should I film next—Porto, Braga, or Coimbra?” |
| Wednesday | Image Post: Behind-the-scenes of your filming setup |
| Friday | Link Post: “Just dropped a new video—hidden gems in the Algarve 🇵🇹” |
| Sunday | Quiz: “Which Portuguese word means ‘Thank You’?” (Fun engagement!) |
Conclusion
YouTube Posts are not just a side feature—they’re a core part of the creator toolkit in 2025. SMACC members who embrace them will find deeper connections with their audience, more visibility between uploads, and better insights into what their viewers care about.
Used well, YouTube Posts can make the difference between passive views and an active, engaged community.
