How the Sidemen Dominate YouTube with Millions of Views

The Sidemen have built one of the most successful YouTube brands, consistently delivering viral content to millions of viewers. Behind the scenes, experts like Tim Haubeil help optimize their videos to increase engagement, retention, and overall performance.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• Tim’s journey to working with the Sidemen
• How the Sidemen optimize their content for maximum reach
• The role of thumbnails in YouTube growth
• How established creators can expand their audience
• Key strategies for aspiring YouTube professionals

If you’re serious about growing on YouTube, there’s a lot to learn from someone who has played a major role in videos that have accumulated over a billion views.

Balancing Ambition and Patience as a YouTuber

Many who start making videos expect rapid success. They upload consistently, put effort into editing, and follow strategies from established channels, assuming results will come quickly. When growth is slower than expected, frustration sets in, leading some to chase shortcuts that hurt long-term potential.

Tim emphasizes the importance of steady progress. While flashy tactics or exaggerated thumbnails might generate short-term attention, they rarely build lasting trust. Instead, the best approach is to focus on small, consistent improvements, refining content with each upload and learning from past performance.

Short-Term Wins vs. Long-Term Growth on YouTube

A common mistake is expecting each video to deliver massive results immediately. Some creators get discouraged when a video underperforms and shift their entire strategy too quickly. The most successful channels treat YouTube as a long game, where success comes from stacking multiple well-crafted videos over time.

The Sidemen exemplify this mindset. Their earliest uploads had lower production value, but instead of chasing viral success overnight, they steadily improved. They focused on engaging content, adapted based on viewer feedback, and refined their approach with each new release.

How to Stay Consistent Without Burning Out on YouTube

One of the biggest challenges for any creator is maintaining output without losing motivation. Growth often feels slow at first, and when expectations don’t match reality, many quit too soon.

Here are a few ways to stay on track:

• Set Realistic Goals – Rather than focusing on subscriber milestones, measure progress by improvements in video quality, engagement, or watch time.
• Analyze Without Overreacting - A single underperforming video doesn’t define a channel. The key is recognizing patterns over time rather than making drastic changes based on one upload.
• Find a Content Style You Enjoy - Burnout happens when every video feels like a chore. Creators who last the longest genuinely enjoy the process and evolve their style in a way that keeps them engaged.

Learning from Every Upload on YouTube

Instead of expecting overnight success, creators should see each video as part of a long-term process. Even if an upload doesn’t get the views expected, it provides valuable data. Audience retention, watch time, and click-through rate help refine future content.

Tim has seen firsthand how patience plays a role in long-term success. Many channels struggle in the beginning but eventually gain traction because they stay consistent, improve storytelling, and build a connection with viewers. Some might get lucky with a viral hit early on, but those who last are the ones who focus on steady progress.

The Path to Sustainable Growth on YouTube

Success isn’t always immediate, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t possible. Each video is a step toward improvement. The best creators treat YouTube as a skill that develops over time, not a platform where overnight fame is the goal. Those who commit to learning, experimenting, and consistently delivering content are the ones who see real results.

How Tim Started Working With The Sidemen

Tim’s journey to working with one of YouTube’s biggest creator groups wasn’t the result of luck or traditional job applications. Instead, it was a mix of proactive outreach, skill development, and a deep understanding of content strategy. His story serves as an example of how those looking to break into the industry can create their own opportunities.

From Engineering to YouTube Strategy on YouTube

Tim didn’t begin his career in media. He completed both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in industrial engineering and management. Despite internships and work experience in that field, he never felt fully engaged with it. However, he had always been fascinated by YouTube, not just as a viewer, but as someone interested in how the platform worked.

While many people enjoy watching videos, few take the time to analyze why certain ones perform better than others. Tim studied the patterns behind successful content, trying to understand the factors that influence growth, retention, and engagement. This curiosity led him to take his first step into YouTube strategy.

Building Experience Through Outreach

Rather than waiting for an opportunity to present itself, Tim reached out to Paddyy Galloway, a well-known YouTube strategist, in 2021. This connection gave him a chance to work with successful creators, analyzing video performance and learning how to optimize content.

During this period, Tim built a track record. He wasn’t just learning theories, he was applying insights to real videos and seeing measurable results. This experience made him stand out when bigger opportunities came his way.

Connecting With The Sidemen on YouTube

By 2022, Tim was working with 1of10, a YouTube strategy company. His expertise in retention and video structure caught the attention of the Sidemen, a group he had followed for years. Unlike many job applications that go through formal hiring processes, his entry into the team was relatively straightforward:

• He found Victor, the head of content at the Sidemen, on LinkedIn.
• He sent a direct message outlining his skills and how he could improve their content.
• After two short calls, he was offered a three-month trial period as a retention specialist.
• His insights proved valuable, leading to a promotion to channel manager for the main Sidemen channel.

This process highlights an important lesson, rather than waiting for job listings, reaching out directly and showcasing value can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Why Direct Outreach Works

Many assume that working for a high-profile creator requires years of networking or industry connections. While that can help, Tim’s story shows that demonstrating value is even more important. His message to the Sidemen’s content team wasn’t just a generic job request. He approached them with specific knowledge and a clear explanation of how he could improve their videos.

For those looking to break into YouTube strategy, content creation, or channel management, this method can be highly effective. The key is:

• Knowing the pain points of a creator or company – What challenges are they facing? How can you help?
• Providing proof of work – Have you improved engagement or retention on past projects? Show data or case studies.
• Making the outreach personal – Mass-sent messages rarely get responses. Personalized, well-researched outreach stands out.

What a YouTube Channel Manager Does

Running a successful YouTube channel goes far beyond filming and uploading content. A channel manager plays a key role in shaping the final product, making sure every video reaches its full potential. This includes working with editors, fine-tuning presentation, and using data to make informed adjustments.

Overseeing Post-Production on YouTube

Once a video is filmed, the raw footage goes through multiple steps before it's ready for release. The manager works closely with editors to shape the narrative, keep the pacing sharp, and cut out anything that slows the video down. Even unscripted content benefits from precise editing choices to keep viewers engaged.

This process involves:

• Reviewing initial edits and providing feedback.
• Adjusting video length to keep the pacing tight without losing key moments.
• Ensuring that the opening seconds grab attention and encourage viewers to keep watching.
• Polishing the final product to match the style and energy of the channel.

A strong opening can make a major difference in viewer retention. If the first 30 seconds don’t pull people in, many will click away. The manager works with editors to make sure the introduction builds curiosity and sets up what’s coming next.

Thumbnail and Title Strategy on YouTube

A great video won't perform well if no one clicks on it. That’s why the manager also helps with thumbnails and titles, testing different ideas to find the best combination.

Some of the steps in this process include:

• Collaborating with designers to create eye-catching thumbnails.
• Running A/B tests to compare different designs.
• Crafting titles that spark curiosity while staying true to the content.
• Adjusting both thumbnails and titles based on performance data.

Even after a video is uploaded, small tweaks can lead to better results. A new thumbnail or a slight title change can sometimes bring in thousands of extra views.

Analyzing Performance Data on YouTube

Numbers tell a story about what’s working and what isn’t. A manager constantly reviews data to identify patterns and adjust future videos accordingly. Some of the key metrics include:

• Click-through rate (CTR) – How many people click after seeing the thumbnail and title.
• Audience retention – How long viewers stay engaged.
• Watch time – The total amount of time people spend watching.
• Impressions – How often YouTube recommends the video to new viewers.

If retention drops at a specific point, the manager reviews what caused it, maybe a slow section, unnecessary filler, or an abrupt topic shift. These insights help shape better content moving forward.

Team Coordination on YouTube

Running a large channel often means working with a team of editors, designers, and strategists. The manager keeps everything moving by:

• Setting deadlines and making sure videos are ready on time.
• Communicating with editors about any changes or improvements.
• Working with designers to refine branding and visual style.
• Adjusting plans based on performance trends and audience feedback.

This role requires balancing creative decisions with analytical thinking. It’s about keeping content engaging while making sure it performs well on the platform.

How the Sidemen Optimize Thumbnails for Higher Click-Through Rates

A great video doesn’t get views unless people click on it. The Sidemen understand this better than most and put serious effort into making thumbnails that grab attention. Every video competes with thousands of others, so the goal is to stand out while making sure the image represents what the viewer can expect.

The Purpose of a Strong Thumbnail on YouTube

The first thing people notice when scrolling through YouTube is the thumbnail. It needs to create enough curiosity to make them stop and want to click. The Sidemen approach this with a combination of bold visuals, strong facial expressions, and clear storytelling.

Key elements they focus on include:

• Faces and emotions – Viewers connect with reactions, so exaggerated expressions work well. Whether it’s shock, excitement, or disbelief, the goal is to make the emotion instantly clear.
• Contrast and color – Bright, high-contrast images stand out. Colors like red, yellow, and blue tend to catch the eye more than muted tones.
• Minimal text – Too many words clutter the image. Instead of a full sentence, a short phrase or a single word can add context without overwhelming the design.
• Action-focused visuals – If the video is about a challenge or competition, the thumbnail should hint at the most exciting moment.

A/B Testing to Find the Best Option on YouTube

Even the best designers can’t always predict which thumbnail will perform best. That’s why the Sidemen regularly test multiple versions.

The process works like this:

1. Create at least two different thumbnails – Before uploading, they prepare multiple designs, each with a unique approach.
2. Upload the video with one version – The initial thumbnail is chosen based on what they believe will work best.
3. Monitor performance – Click-through rate (CTR) is tracked closely. If the video isn’t performing as expected, a different version is tested.
4. Compare results – YouTube’s built-in testing tools help determine which thumbnail keeps more people clicking.

One of their biggest success stories came when a thumbnail change resulted in 2.5 times more views in just 28 days. Small tweaks, like adjusting brightness, adding a reaction, or cropping the image differently, can make a major difference.

Balancing Curiosity and Accuracy on YouTube

A misleading thumbnail might get more clicks, but it can also hurt the video’s performance if people feel tricked and leave early. The Sidemen aim to find a balance, building curiosity while making sure the image reflects the actual content.

To do this, they:

• Choose a moment that represents the most exciting part of the video.
• Use bold expressions without over-exaggerating.
• Keep text short but relevant.

This way, viewers feel satisfied after clicking rather than frustrated that they didn’t get what they expected.

How Established Creators Can Reach a New Audience

When a YouTube channel grows to a large size, reaching new viewers becomes harder. The Sidemen, with their millions of subscribers, face this challenge constantly. They’ve learned that to keep growing, they can’t rely solely on their loyal audience, they need to attract fresh viewers. Here are some of the strategies they use to expand their reach.

Collaborating with Other YouTubers

One of the most effective ways to grow is by partnering with other YouTubers. The Sidemen have teamed up with creators from different niches, exposing their content to new audiences. Whether it's a charity football match, gaming challenge, or even a podcast appearance, collaboration offers a way to tap into someone else’s fanbase - similar to when Mark Rober was able to boost his views by using collaborations with Dude Perfect.

By working with popular creators like Kai Cenat or IShowSpeed, the Sidemen introduce their content to viewers who might not have come across their videos otherwise. This kind of cross-promotion is mutually beneficial: both creators gain new followers, and audiences get introduced to new content they might enjoy.

Creating Content for a Broader Audience on YouTube

While their core fans love the Sidemen’s specific brand of humor, reaching a new audience means adapting content to appeal to a wider range of people. To achieve this, they often start their videos with more universally accessible content before diving into niche jokes and inside references. The goal is to keep the first few minutes engaging for anyone, even if they don’t have a deep knowledge of the Sidemen’s history or inside jokes.

This strategy helps retain new viewers who may feel alienated if they were thrown into an all-insider moment. By introducing the video with something anyone can enjoy, the Sidemen make sure that they don’t lose potential subscribers right off the bat.

Utilizing Big-Scale Events

Another effective tactic for reaching new audiences is hosting large-scale events. The Sidemen’s charity football match is a prime example. It draws in a broad audience, not just fans of the Sidemen, but also people interested in charity events, sports, and entertainment. These kinds of events create buzz that brings in new viewers who may stick around after seeing how much fun the Sidemen have during these larger-than-life moments.

Even if a viewer doesn’t watch a typical Sidemen video, seeing their involvement in such a big event is enough to spark curiosity. The social media buzz around the event often leads to people discovering the channel, growing their audience beyond what was previously possible.

Appealing to Different Niche Audiences on YouTube

While the Sidemen’s main content revolves around gaming, challenges, and comedy, they occasionally branch into new areas that appeal to specific niches. For example, collaborating with beauty influencers or participating in fitness challenges opens up the possibility of reaching people who have no interest in gaming or humor but still enjoy the personalities of the creators.

By diversifying the types of content they create, the Sidemen keep their channel fresh and attract people from different walks of life. Whether it’s a cooking competition or a travel vlog, stepping out of their comfort zone creates opportunities for them to engage with people who might not otherwise watch their usual content.

Making Sure the Content Is Shareable on YouTube

A key to gaining new viewers is making content that people want to share. The Sidemen create moments that are not only funny or entertaining but easy to share with others. A well-timed joke, an unexpected twist in a challenge, or a heartwarming moment during a charity event, these are all things that viewers want to pass along to their friends.

Shareable content spreads quickly and gives the Sidemen a chance to be introduced to someone new, without relying on the YouTube algorithm alone. Their videos are designed to be enjoyed not only by the person watching but also by those who might find it amusing when shared in group chats or on social media.

Exploring New Platforms

While YouTube is their main focus, the Sidemen have also branched out to other platforms like TikTok and Instagram to showcase clips and reach audiences who may not be on YouTube. These platforms allow them to reach people who might not have time to watch a full video but still want to engage with their content. Short-form videos give new audiences a taste of what they offer, making them more likely to check out the full video on YouTube.

Being active on these platforms helps them maintain visibility, as people who discover them through TikTok or Instagram might be encouraged to visit the Sidemen YouTube channel to see more of what they offer.

What Are the Most Important YouTube Metrics?

YouTube offers a wide range of metrics that can help content creators track their performance. However, not all metrics are created equal. When analyzing how well your videos are doing, focusing on the right ones is key to making improvements and understanding your audience better. Here are the most important YouTube metrics and how they impact your channel’s success.

Watch Time and Average View Duration

Watch time is the total number of minutes viewers spend watching your videos. This is a fundamental metric because it directly affects how YouTube ranks your content. Videos with higher watch time tend to perform better because YouTube prioritizes content that keeps viewers engaged for longer periods.

Average view duration (AVD) is a closely related metric. It measures the average length of time a viewer spends watching your video before leaving. A high average view duration signals to YouTube that your content is engaging and worth promoting. When viewers watch a large portion of your video, the algorithm is more likely to recommend it to others, increasing its reach.

These two metrics help creators understand if their content is holding attention. If people tend to drop off early, there might be an issue with the pacing or engagement at the start of the video.

Click-Through Rate (CTR)

The click-through rate (CTR) refers to the percentage of people who click on your video after seeing it in search results or recommendations. A high CTR suggests that your title and thumbnail are enticing enough to draw viewers in.

This metric is important because it gives insight into how well your video grabs the attention of potential viewers. If your CTR is low, it could indicate that your title, thumbnail, or video description isn't compelling enough to make people want to click and watch. Small changes, like improving your thumbnail design or tweaking your title for more curiosity, can have a significant effect on CTR.

Impressions and Impressions Click-Through Rate (CTR)

Impressions refer to the number of times your video’s thumbnail was shown to viewers on YouTube. This metric is significant because it shows how often your video is appearing in front of potential viewers. A high number of impressions is an indication that YouTube is showing your video to many people, either through search results, recommendations, or external links.

Impressions CTR, on the other hand, is the percentage of people who clicked on your video after seeing the thumbnail. It helps you understand how well your content is appealing when it’s shown to viewers. If you’re getting a high number of impressions but low CTR, it suggests that something about your thumbnail or title isn't drawing people in.

How to Get Hired by a Dream YouTube Channel

Breaking into the YouTube scene as part of a team, especially a high-profile channel, can seem like a tough challenge. However, it’s entirely possible with the right approach and mindset. Whether you’re aiming to work with a top creator or join a company that manages several channels, there are clear steps you can take to improve your chances of being noticed and hired by a dream YouTube channel.

1. Build a Portfolio and Demonstrate Your Skills

Before reaching out to a potential employer, having a strong portfolio that showcases your abilities is essential. Whether you’re an editor, scriptwriter, designer, or strategist, your portfolio should be tailored to the type of work the channel you’re interested in produces. The goal is to provide tangible proof of your expertise.

For video editors, this might include examples of past projects where you’ve created or edited engaging videos. For scriptwriters, it could involve providing written examples that demonstrate your storytelling ability and understanding of video pacing. If you specialize in thumbnail creation, show how your thumbnails have contributed to higher click-through rates. You want your portfolio to not only reflect your technical skill but also your ability to work in the style that appeals to that specific channel's audience.

Building your portfolio is about more than just showing finished products; you also want to include case studies or results where possible. For example, if you were part of a team that successfully grew a channel, include metrics like audience growth or increased engagement. Concrete numbers help validate your claims and show the impact of your work.

2. Network with YouTube Professionals

Networking plays a significant role in getting hired by a YouTube channel. Connecting with people in the industry, both creators and professionals who support them, is a great way to open doors. Attend events like YouTube workshops, conferences, and other social gatherings where industry professionals gather. It’s also helpful to be active on social platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter, where many YouTubers and video production professionals engage.

Don't be afraid to reach out directly to people whose work you admire. Be genuine and show interest in their content or role. Sometimes, a simple compliment or insight about their work can spark a conversation. After you've established a relationship, you can express your interest in collaborating or working together.

Being visible in YouTube-related communities, such as subreddits or online forums, can help you connect with like-minded professionals and create valuable industry relationships. Building these connections over time will increase your chances of being recommended when a role becomes available.

3. Master LinkedIn Outreach

LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for getting noticed by YouTube channels looking to hire new team members. If you're targeting a specific channel, start by identifying key figures associated with it, such as the head of content, channel managers, or other professionals on their team. After connecting, take a thoughtful approach to outreach.

Instead of sending a generic message, personalize your communication by highlighting why you admire the channel’s content and offering something of value in return. Whether it’s your skills, unique perspective, or a specific idea for a project, make sure your message shows that you've taken the time to understand the work the channel does.

It’s also helpful to post your work or share insights related to the field on your own LinkedIn profile. Being active on the platform allows potential employers to find you while demonstrating your expertise. Sharing tips, articles, or successful projects you've worked on will increase your visibility.

4. Show Your Passion for the Channel’s Content

When you approach a dream YouTube channel, it’s essential to show that you're genuinely passionate about their content and that you’re not just trying to get a job for the sake of it. Take the time to learn about the creators’ style, audience, and the type of videos they make. Then, tailor your approach to show how your skills can help elevate their content and how you can fit into their unique style.

If the channel is focused on a particular niche, make sure you show your understanding of that niche in your communications. Whether it’s gaming, tech, lifestyle, or education, showing that you’re not just another generic applicant but someone who truly resonates with their mission and content will increase your chances of being noticed.

You can also show this passion by engaging with the channel’s content, leaving thoughtful comments, participating in community discussions, or even creating content inspired by their videos. When the creator or the team notices your enthusiasm, it can lead to valuable conversations or opportunities.

5. Be Persistent, but Respectful

The process of landing a position with a high-demand YouTube channel may take time, so patience is key. Don’t expect an immediate response after your first outreach message. Many creators receive a high volume of messages, so standing out requires persistence. However, it’s important to strike the right balance between being persistent and respectful of their time.

If you don’t hear back after your initial message, consider following up after a week or two with a polite reminder. However, don’t bombard them with repeated messages, as this can come across as pushy. A well-timed follow-up can demonstrate your interest without overwhelming the recipient.

6. Gain Experience in the YouTube Field

If you’re new to the YouTube industry or don’t have a direct connection to a channel, it may be helpful to work on smaller projects first. Freelance work, internships, or assisting smaller creators can help you gain the experience you need to build your resume. Sites like Fiverr or UpWork are great for this.

Even working on personal projects where you apply your skills can give you the necessary portfolio pieces to show potential employers. Having hands-on experience with the platform and the type of work involved, like editing, scriptwriting, or content management, will increase your chances of getting hired by bigger, more established channels.

In this case, getting experience might also mean working with smaller YouTubers to refine your craft and learn the ropes. While you may not get paid as much or work on large-scale projects, it can lead to more significant opportunities down the road.

7. Keep Improving Your Skills

The YouTube landscape is always evolving, and so should your skill set. YouTube’s algorithm, best practices, and audience trends constantly change, which means there’s always room to learn and adapt.

For example, keeping up with the latest video editing techniques, mastering new software, or studying new content trends can help make you more valuable to potential employers.

Also, continually refine your understanding of the platform’s analytics, SEO best practices, and monetization strategies. Channels are often looking for people who have a deep understanding of how to grow and optimize their content.

Conclusion

Securing a role with a top YouTube channel is no easy feat, but with the right approach, determination, and strategy, it’s absolutely within reach. Building a strong portfolio, networking with industry professionals, and showcasing your passion for the channel’s content are key steps toward getting noticed. Whether you're a creator, editor, designer, or strategist, the focus should be on offering real value, engaging authentically, and demonstrating how your skills align with the channel’s goals.

Patience is necessary, success won’t come overnight. However, by continuously improving your skills, gaining relevant experience, and engaging with the YouTube community, you'll position yourself as an ideal candidate for any YouTube team. The path to working with a dream channel is all about combining expertise with enthusiasm, networking with the right people, and staying persistent in your pursuit of the perfect opportunity.