Ultra.
Recent changes and updates across various platforms serve as a reminder of the importance of diversification and the need to explore multiple channels for growing as a live streamer. For example, Twitch recently announced that it would no longer allow simultaneous live streaming on long-form first platforms like YouTube or Facebook for all creators, regardless of status. Additionally, they made some changes to brand guidelines (and later reversed) that seemingly could negatively impact some creators. With Twitch being a go-to platform for many streamers, this announcement was a bit alarming for creators. However, it also reinforces the need for content creators to explore ways to expand their reach and build multiple channels across different platforms.
In this article, we will discuss platform diversity, highlight the benefits of establishing a presence on multiple live streaming platforms, and some steps to help you start branching out.
Clearly Define Your Goals
Before expanding to new platforms, define your goals and objectives as a live streamer. Are you seeking to reach a broader audience, increase your revenue streams, or establish a presence in a specific niche? Understanding your objectives will help you prioritize platforms and tailor your content accordingly to achieve those goals on any specific platform.
Research Platform Demographics
Understanding the demographics and user base of different platforms can help you determine if the platform aligns with your goals and target audience. For example, while Twitch is best known for gaming live streaming, more often than not, you can find a wider variety of live streams, such as makeup masterclasses, workouts, and live podcast episodes on YouTube (not to say these latter categories don’t exist on Twitch). Choosing platforms that have a presence amongst your target audience increases the likelihood of finding engaged viewers.
Create a Comprehensive Stream Schedule
One effective strategy for managing multiple channels is to create a stream schedule. Designate specific days solely for Twitch streaming (considering its limitations) and allocate other days for the other platforms. This approach ensures you are able to remain consistent on multiple platforms and branch out without breaking any guidelines.
Leverage Multistreaming Tools (When and Where Applicable)
While Twitch's new terms of service restrict multistreaming, there are still options available for streamers. Twitch still allows multistreaming to vertical first platforms such as Instagram Reels and TikTok. Additionally, there’s always the ability to multistream on other platforms such as Facebook Live and YouTube.
Tools like Streamlabs offer multistreaming capabilities that can help you reach multiple platforms simultaneously (a premium feature of Streamlabs available exclusively for Ultra members). Explore these options to widen your reach and maximize your viewership.
Cross Promote
Chances are, if you’re on multiple platforms, your target audience is too. Encourage your viewers from one platform to follow you on others by providing links and promoting your content during live streams.
Pro-Tip: When you get the hang of managing multiple platforms, try presenting unique offerings on specific platforms to get viewers from one channel to another. For example, entice Twitch followers to join your next YouTube live stream when you’ll be providing exclusive behind the scene content of you changing your streaming setup. Get creative, and don’t be afraid to try new things.
Remember, it's not necessary to be present on every platform. Focus on a few platforms initially, and once you have established a strong presence and workflow, you can gradually expand to other platforms. Regardless of the platform, it's important to prioritize quality content and engage with your audience consistently—this will be instrumental in your success across multiple platforms. Don’t continuously expand to new platforms if it means watering down your content in the process.
