YouTube Implements Stricter Rules for Its Shorts Creator Community

Business Insider

YouTube has implemented stricter rules for its exclusive invite-only Shorts creator community, where creators receive support, advice, and perks from Community Partner Managers. Focusing on the 'most engaged and interested creators,' creators must now meet specific criteria, including posting consistently on Shorts and attending at least one community session quarterly.

Why It Matters: YouTube's decision to add criteria for creators to join and remain in the community signifies a shift towards providing support for creators that aligns with its initiatives. This move comes on the heels of YouTube laying off 100 employees across its creator partnerships division and an overall restructuring of the organization.

YouTube isn’t alone in evolving its creator support. There seems to be a broader transformation across the industry. Instagram recently underwent a round of layoffs and is putting creators who drive teen engagement first. Meanwhile, LinkedIn is pivoting from creators and focusing on a broader user base.

Creators are a platform’s most valuable asset, but it's important to remember that platforms are also driven by profit. They will continue to evolve, adjusting everything from their algorithms to their tools and features and how they support creators based on what is best for their business objectives.

Creators should keep this in mind and remain flexible — leverage platform support when available, but avoid relying too heavily on it.