The content creators who started creating long-form content (10 minutes+) back in 2015-16 and those wo are still regular with their content journey, they show up on YouTube, post videos and have managed to stay relevant have done a few things in common If you want to be a content creator and be relevant over the years, here are a few things you must consider paying attention to These are common behaviours that each of these content creators who have stood for over a decade has done, again and again: 1) Storytelling is everything: Capture interest in the first 10 seconds. Narrative arcs, hooks, and dynamic visuals keep viewers watching and YouTube notices. 2) Technical polish matters: Invest in crisp audio, quality visuals, and seamless editing. Consistent branding (thumbnails, intros, end screens) builds trust and keeps audiences coming back. 3) Thumbnails & Titles Are First Impression: Test faces, emotions, colour, fonts. Use concise, relevant titles packed with keywords. Proper metadata helps your content get seen. Less but to the point – is more when it comes or both thumbnails and titles. 4) Retention is king: Hook instantly, then vary pace and inject “pattern breakers” at likely drop-off points. Strong retention tells the algorithm your video deserves to be recommended. Healthy AVD is everything, it matters more than the number of views. 5) Build real community: Engage actively: pin comments, answer questions, host livestreams. Loyal audiences boost returning viewers and organic reach. 6) Consistency & Formats win: Stick to a reliable schedule (full-length videos + Shorts). Diversify formats to reach both core fans and new users algorithms reward this. Use all the forms and tools. 7) Obsess over analytics: Let data (CTR, retention, watch time) guide every decision, from thumbnail improvements to topic shifts. Always test, learn, iterate, and implement. 8) Be the niche authority: Go deep in your field. Prioritise evergreen content that ages well and attracts long-term views—freshen it up as trends return. 9) Collaborate strategically: Partner with peers and complementary content creators. Cross-promote on multiple platforms (Instagram, X, LinkedIn, Discord, Reddit, Telegram, WhatsApp, Newsletters) to expand your ecosystem 10) Stay adaptable: YouTube is always evolving. Embrace new features, formats, and monetisation tools quickly. Agility means survival and growth. Sustained YouTube success isn’t luck.It’s a craft: blending art, analytics, technology, and deep audience empathy, day in, day out. Comment the names of content creators who you think started back in 2015/16 and are still going strong