[FAQ]

I’m trying to grow my YouTube channel, but I always feel really awkward when it comes to the part where I have to ask people to subscribe. The generic “don’t forget to like and subscribe!” just feels a bit pushy or desperate to me, and I’m worried it turns viewers off.

What are some more effective, creative, or natural ways to encourage viewers to subscribe in 2025? I’m also curious about the best timing within a video to make the request – is it better at the start, middle, or end?

[Jeff Bullas]

Asking viewers to subscribe is a necessary part of growing a channel, but the key to doing it without sounding desperate is to be confident and to frame the request around the value you are providing to the viewer.

There are several effective ways to approach this. First, you should connect the call to subscribe with future value. Instead of a generic request, tell them why subscribing benefits them. For example, you could say, “If you found this guide to X helpful, I will be releasing a follow-up video on Y next week, so make sure you subscribe so you do not miss out.” This frames subscribing as an action they take for their own benefit.

Second, the timing of your request is critical. The least effective time to ask is at the very beginning of the video, before you have provided any value. A much better time is either just after you have delivered a key piece of information or solved the main problem promised in your video’s title, or towards the end as you are summarising your key points.

Third, you should use visual calls to action to support your verbal request. You can use on-screen graphics, custom subscribe button animations, or YouTube’s own End Screen elements to gently remind people to subscribe. These visual cues are often less intrusive than a verbal plea and can be very effective.

Fourth, when you do make the verbal ask, be direct and confident, not apologetic. Avoid hesitant phrases like, “I know it’s annoying, but could you please…” Instead, be straightforward. A simple and confident, “If this video was helpful for you, subscribing to the channel is the best way to support this work and see more content like it,” is much more effective.

Fifth, you can briefly explain how subscribing helps the channel. Let your audience know that their subscription helps the channel grow, which in turn allows you to create more and better content for them. This frames it as a collaborative relationship between you and your viewers.

The underlying mindset should be one of confidence. You have just provided valuable content for free, and asking for a free subscription in return is a very reasonable value exchange. If you are confident in the value you are offering, there is no need to feel desperate when asking for the subscription.

In summary, the most effective way to ask for subscribers is to connect it to future value, place the request at a logical point in your video, use supporting visual cues, and deliver the ask with confidence.

Cheers,

Jeff

[Author]

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