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8 Things You Must Do Before You Hit Record on YouTube

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8 Things You Must Do Before You Hit Record on YouTube

After producing and strategizing YouTube channels for nearly 10 years, I can tell you this: the difference between creators who succeed and creators who struggle happens before you ever hit record.

Most people jump straight into filming, then scramble to fix things in editing. That backwards approach leads to burnout, frustration, and videos that just don’t perform. The truth? YouTube success is about intentional planning.

I use the same methodology with every client and every video I produce, and today I’m breaking down the 8 steps that set successful creators apart.

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Why Planning Matters for YouTube Success

When you don’t plan properly, your videos feel rushed, unfocused, and rarely connect with viewers. On the flip side, when you follow a clear process, filming becomes easier, editing is faster, and your content actually drives results.

My 8-Step Pre-Filming Process

Here’s what I (and my clients) do before pressing record:

  1. Nail Your Topic – The #1 growth factor. Without the right topic, nothing else matters.

  2. Craft Your Title – Your title sets expectations and guides the entire video.

  3. Conceptualize Your Thumbnail – Keep it simple, clear, and aligned with your title.

  4. Write Your Hook – The first 15–30 seconds make or break retention.

  5. Create an Outline – A roadmap that keeps you focused and viewers engaged.

  6. Write Your Script (optional) – Especially useful for research-heavy or detailed videos.

  7. Prepare Editing Notes – Capture your creative vision before you forget.

  8. Then (and only then) Film – Filming becomes the easiest step when you’ve planned.

The Bottom Line

YouTube growth doesn’t come from hustling harder—it comes from being strategic and intentional. When you plan your videos in this sequence, you’ll finally create content that works as hard as you do.

This is exactly the system I teach inside my YouTube Bootcamp, where I help women creators build a signature channel that grows their income, impact, and influence.

So, let me ask you—how do you plan your videos right now? Is this 8-step system something you’re ready to start using? 

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***Disclaimers: all opinions are my own, sponsors are acknowledged. Links in the description are typically affiliate links that let you help support the podcast at no extra cost.

Author: Erika Vieira

Marketing and sales expert Erika Vieira is the host and producer of the #1 influencer strategy podcast, The YouTube Power Hour. The podcast, with over 100 episodes and hundreds of thousands of downloads is dedicated to content creators who are looking to start, improve and grow their unique influence online. Erika works with influencers on personal branding, content improvement and defining a niche via customized strategy sessions, channel critiques and business support. She also loves makeup, beauty and her family and believes anyone who has the drive and passion can find success online. Feel free to send her a message here.

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