If you’ve ever noticed that YouTube search results sometimes feature irrelevant videos, you’re not alone. In this article, we’re going to explore how YouTube search works, why unrelated videos show up in search results, and most importantly, how you can optimize your content strategy to ensure your videos get in front of your ideal audience.
How Does YouTube Search Work?
YouTube’s search engine has evolved significantly over time, with improvements to its algorithm and the integration of AI. The ultimate goal of YouTube search is simple: to provide viewers with the most relevant results for their search query. As YouTube’s search capabilities improve, the experience for viewers becomes more seamless and tailored.
In the past, SEO—both for websites and YouTube—often relied on exploiting loopholes to get to the top of search results. Many would look for ways to manipulate the algorithm and trick the system. However, YouTube’s AI-powered system has made such tactics less effective. The key now is to understand what your target audience is searching for and create content that answers their specific questions.
Following this approach, your content will be more likely to rank higher in search results, meeting the demand of your audience directly.
Why Does YouTube Show Unrelated Videos in Search Results?
Despite YouTube’s best efforts to provide relevant content, sometimes unrelated videos still show up in search results. You might find yourself searching for a topic and seeing results that aren’t quite right. But here’s the thing: this actually presents an opportunity.
When YouTube fails to find content that answers a specific query, it sometimes ranks unrelated videos temporarily. This means that if you create content that directly addresses that need, your video could rank at the top of the search results. So, instead of being discouraged by irrelevant results, take it as a sign that there’s a gap in the content market that you can fill.
To illustrate this point, let’s take a look at an example. One of my clients, Jason Schroeder, wanted to rank for the keyword “What licenses are needed to start a construction business?” When I checked the search results for this term, I saw several videos that weren’t particularly relevant—such as AI-generated content or shorts that didn’t really address the core question.
If Jason were to create a video that answers this question thoroughly, his content could fill that gap, ranking highly for the search term. The key is creating highly specific and targeted content that YouTube’s algorithm will recognize as valuable to the viewer.
What Would Cause My Video to Appear in Irrelevant Search Results?
Your video might show up in unrelated search results for a few reasons. If you start producing multiple videos around similar topics, YouTube will start to learn what your content is about. This means that if someone searches for something that’s related but not identical to your video’s subject, YouTube might rank your content anyway—especially if there’s no other relevant video that answers the query.
Sometimes, YouTube will test content in different search categories to see how it performs, but this is typically a short-term test. If your video consistently shows up for unrelated searches, it likely won’t stay there for long.
How Can I Improve YouTube Search Results for More Relevant Content?
The best way to ensure your content ranks for relevant search queries is to focus on answering very specific questions that your target audience is asking. This strategy helps create a better viewer experience because it gives them exactly what they’re looking for.
Initially, your content might not get immediate traction—it may be a “no” at first. But over time, as more people engage with your content, your videos will start ranking higher and showing up in the right search results.
Instead of relying on outdated tactics, like creating spammy content that links back to your website, focus on creating valuable, relevant content for your audience. This approach not only helps you rank higher, but it also builds a stronger connection with your viewers.
Conclusion: How to Rank Your Videos
If you want to learn how to rank your videos at the top of YouTube search and create a content strategy that attracts your ideal audience, I’ve created a separate video that breaks down the process.
It’s called “What is Video Marketing? Ultimate Easy Formula,” and I’ll link it here on the screen. Make sure to check it out for more actionable strategies that will help you get your videos in front of the right people.
