How to Set and Change YouTube Channel Name and Handle

There are millions of creators on YouTube posting videos every day. So if you want to stand out, you need more than just great material. You have to build a strong brand identity. Your YouTube handle and channel name are big parts of who you are. They play a significant role in SEO and branding for both digital marketers and YouTubers.

Understanding YouTube Handles and Channel Names

Before getting into the specifics of setting or changing your YouTube handle and channel name, it’s essential to understand what these terms mean and how they contribute to your channel’s online persona.

YouTube Handle: Your YouTube handle, introduced by the platform in 2021, acts as a unique identifier and starts with a “@”, similar to handles on other social media platforms. In YouTube’s environment, it helps with tagging, mentioning, and directly addressing channels.

Channel Name: This is the name displayed on your YouTube channel and videos. In YouTube searches and suggestions, it’s the brand name that people see and connect with your videos.

Even though they are slightly different, both are very important for creating and changing your channel’s personality, which makes it easier for billions of users to find you.

How to Set Up and Change Your YouTube Handle and Channel Name

Setting Up for the First Time

1. Navigate to YouTube: Sign in with your Google account.

2. Create a Channel: To make a new channel, just follow the on-screen instructions and type in the name you want for it.

3. Setting Your Handle: Go to ‘Customization‘ > ‘Basic Info‘ > ‘Set up a handle‘ for your new channel.

Making Changes to Your Existing Identity

No matter how your brand changes, you can change your YouTube channel name and handle to stay in line with it.

Here’s how:

1. Changing Your Channel Name:

• Go to YouTube Studio.
• Under ‘Customization’ > ‘Basic Info‘, type in your new channel name and save changes.

1. Modifying Your Handle:

• Access YouTube Studio and select ‘Customization’.
• Click on ‘Basic Info‘ and adjust your handle using the ‘Change’ option next to your existing handle.

Remember that your YouTube handle needs to be unique and follow YouTube’s rules. Before you change it, think about what it will mean for your SEO because it changes your channel URL.

The Importance of a Good YouTube Handle and Channel Name

How people find you on the platform and how people interact with your brand are all greatly affected by the handle and channel name you choose. Choose names that are easy to remember, easy to spell, and related to your content. This will boost your SEO strategy and connect you with your target audience.

Real-World Examples and Best Practices

Take PewDiePie, whose name is now linked to games and fun on YouTube, or Marques Brownlee’s MKBHD, which is known for tech reviews. Not only are their handles and channel names unique and easy to remember, but they also represent the material they post, which makes for strong brand identities.

Best Practices Overview:

Relevance: Make sure your name fits with your niche or content.

Simplicity: For best results, choose names that are simple and easy to remember and say.

Uniqueness: Choose a name that makes you stand out.

SEO-Friendly: Include terms that are relevant to your niche.

Conclusion

Your YouTube handle and channel name are not just made up words. They’re your first chance to meet the audience and make an impact that will last. Improving these parts makes viewers feel welcome in your digital world and lets them know what to expect.

Take these steps and factors into account whether you’re creating a new channel or rebranding an old one. Your YouTube channel is like a beacon for your brand online, leading people from a simple search to becoming loyal followers.