The YouTube Merch Shelf is a powerful tool for creators looking to boost their merchandise sales. By showcasing your Crowdmade products directly on your YouTube videos, you can turn your engaged viewers into loyal customers. This guide will explain why the YouTube Merch Shelf is so important for sales, how to qualify for it, and how to get started.
Why the YouTube Merch Shelf is Crucial for Sales
The YouTube Merch Shelf allows you to feature your Crowdmade products directly beneath your videos, making it easy for viewers to purchase your merchandise without leaving YouTube. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for your sales:
- Seamless Shopping Experience: Viewers can browse and buy your products while watching your content, reducing the steps needed to make a purchase.
- Increased Visibility: Your merchandise is front and center, visible to all your viewers, including those who might not follow your other social media platforms.
- Higher Conversion Rates: By integrating your store with your content, you’re likely to see higher conversion rates as viewers are more inclined to buy when they’re engaged with your videos.
Eligibility for the YouTube Merch Shelf
Before you can start using the YouTube Merch Shelf, your channel must meet the following requirements:
- YouTube Partner Program: You must be a member of the YouTube Partner Program. This requires at least 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 hours of watch time in the past 12 months.
- Channel Status: Your channel must not be marked as “Made for Kids” or have any Community Guideline Strikes.
- Geographic Availability: The YouTube Merch Shelf is available in select countries. Make sure your country is supported.
To learn more about the specific eligibility criteria, visit YouTube’s guidelines and channel requirements.
How to Set Up the YouTube Merch Shelf
If you meet the eligibility requirements, setting up the YouTube Merch Shelf is straightforward:
- Connect Your Crowdmade Store: From your Crowdmade account, navigate to the Integrations section in your account settings.
- Authenticate with YouTube: Click the “Connect YouTube” button and follow the prompts to authenticate your YouTube account. We will review your account and authorize the connection to YouTube if eligible. This process may take 1 business day.
- Manage Products in Creator Studio: Once your account is connected, go to your YouTube Creator Studio to add and manage the products you want to feature on your YouTube Merch Shelf. (See video below)
Promote Your Merchandise on YouTube
Once your Merch Shelf is live, take advantage of YouTube’s features to maximize sales:
- Mention Your Merch: Regularly mention your merchandise in your videos, encouraging viewers to check out the shelf below.
- Use Cards and End Screens: Add cards and end screens that link directly to your products or your Crowdmade store.
- Create Dedicated Merch Videos: Consider making a video focused entirely on your merchandise, showcasing the quality, design, and any new items.
Start Using the YouTube Merch Shelf Today
The YouTube Merch Shelf is an incredible tool for boosting your Crowdmade sales. By integrating your store directly with your content, you can turn your viewers into customers with just a few clicks. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t wait—set up your YouTube Merch Shelf today and start seeing the impact on your sales.