Definition
Video SEO aims to optimize video content so it appears in Google search results (video carousel, video rich snippets) and on YouTube, the world's second-largest search engine. Optimizations include keyword-rich titles and descriptions, tags, captions, chapters (timestamps), attractive thumbnails, and VideoObject structured data. On YouTube specifically, the algorithm considers watch time, engagement (likes, comments, shares), thumbnail CTR, and publishing frequency. Embedding videos on web pages can also improve time spent on site.
Key Points
- YouTube is the world's second-largest search engine after Google
- VideoObject structured data triggers video rich snippets in Google
- Watch time and engagement are the primary ranking factors on YouTube
Practical Examples
Video in Google SERPs
By adding VideoObject structured data to a page containing a video, it can appear with a thumbnail in Google results, significantly increasing CTR.
YouTube optimization
A title containing the main keyword, a 200+ word description with links, time-stamped chapters, and a custom thumbnail optimize positioning in YouTube search.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both strategies are complementary. YouTube offers a massive audience and good Google ranking. Hosting on your own site (with VideoObject) lets you keep the traffic. Ideally, publish on YouTube and embed the video on your site.
Yes, subtitles (captions) allow search engines to understand video content. On YouTube, automatic captions exist but manual captions are more accurate and better indexed.
Go Further with LemmiLink
Discover how LemmiLink can help you put these SEO concepts into practice.
Last updated: 2026-02-07