Stop Asking for Likes: The Only 3 YouTube CTAs That Make Money

Most YouTube advice is completely wrong about CTAs. Everybody says "leave a like" or "leave a comment."

Let's be real: that does absolutely nothing for your business.

If you actually want leads, clients, and real growth, you only need three specific CTAs. Here is exactly what they are and how to use them.

CTA 1: Your Funnel

This is the most important CTA because it turns a casual viewer into a lead, and a lead eventually turns into a client.

Where to put it: If your video is long enough, always put this around the 33% mark. We do this so viewers who click away early don't miss it. You want them to be product-aware so they associate your solution with their problem.

Always put this CTA at the end of the video as well. People who watch the whole video are highly qualified and interested in what you have to offer.

How to phrase it: "What I just explained is one piece of the puzzle. If you're serious about scaling your business with YouTube, click the first link in the description to book a free strategy call with me."

CTA 2: Watch Another Video

You need to think of your YouTube channel as a library full of Netflix films. YouTube rewards binge-worthy content. More watch time equals more algorithm push.

Where to put it: There are only two places this works. First, when you mention a topic you've already covered, tell them to click the card at the top right of the screen. Second, use the end screen.

How to phrase it: "Click this video on screen next because YouTube thinks you'll enjoy it."

This keeps the viewer on the platform longer. YouTube loves this, and they will keep promoting your content. It also builds your authority and keeps people locked inside your ecosystem.

CTA 3: The Reason-Based Subscribe

This is only important if you are actively trying to get more subscribers. But you can't just throw up a random "subscribe" graphic.

How to do it right: You have to give people a specific reason to subscribe in one to two sentences. If you just say "subscribe," no one will do it.

Instead, say: "Next week I'm going to be breaking down X framework, so make sure you subscribe so you don't miss it."

Place this at the end of the video, and use subtle subscribe animations incrementally throughout the video to tie the viewer directly to your content.

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Notice what's not on this list: asking for likes and comments. That is all fluff. The YouTube algorithm only cares about CTR and watch time.

Pick one, max two of these CTAs per video, and always make sure your funnel is in place. That's where the real ROI is.

If you want to work with my agency to handle everything for you so you only have to record for two hours a month, click the link below to book a free strategy call.