Episode #
Why You Shouldn’t Optimize for 1 Million Subscribers #2595
October 30, 2023

In episode #2595, we talk about why optimizing for a million subscribers is not as critical as it once was. We draw from our experiences with running ads on social media platforms such as Facebook and shed light on how subscriber numbers can sometimes be deceiving. We underscore the significance of concentrating on qualified subscribers who have a higher likelihood of becoming customers. Our conversation delves into the shifting algorithms and the increasing importance of views and engagement over the sheer quantity of subscribers. In our view, the key lies in optimizing for views and creating content that resonates, rather than fixating on amassing a high number of subscribers.
TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[00:00] Today’s topic: Why You Shouldn’t Optimize for 1 Million Subscribers

[00:38] Subscribers don’t matter, focus on qualified subscribers.

[01:25] Having a lot of subscribers doesn’t guarantee views.

[02:07] Old-school techniques work better than generating subscribers.

[03:19] Subscribers are vanity metrics, focusing on customers instead.

[03:39] Number of views and engagement matter more than subscribers.

[04:51] Social media content builds brand reputation, not direct customers.

[05:41] Optimize for views and engagement, not subscriber numbers.

[06:12] Optimizing for the wrong thing wastes time and effort.

[06:57] Attention comes from views, not subscribers.

[07:01] Go to https://www.marketingschool.io to learn more!

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube!

Neil Patel on Facebook

Leave Some Feedback:

What should we talk about next? Please let us know in the comments below

Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review.

Connect with Us: 

Single Grain << Eric’s ad agency

NP Digital << Neil’s ad agency

X @neilpatel 

X @ericosiu

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover Latest Episodes

Episode
Agency Trends, Capitalism vs Socialism, and Gary Vee’s Blueprint for the Next Generation
September 10, 2025

In this episode #3038, Eric Siu and Neil Patel break down agency growth and revenue trends, highlighting the effectiveness of outbound marketing in driving results. They also compare capitalism and so...

Episode
How to Create Content for AI, Gymshark’s Sorority Play, and Rethinking Burnout
September 09, 2025

In this episode #3067, Eric and Neil discuss how content creation is shifting from keyword-heavy tactics to covering topics in depth, especially with AI reshaping SEO. They highlight the value of plat...

Episode
AI Is Killing Junior Jobs, Here’s What’s Replacing Them
September 08, 2025

In this episode #3036, Eric and Neil discuss how AI is reshaping the job market, with fewer junior roles available and a growing demand for senior talent. They highlight the importance of adapting thr...