Today I want to review the 11 steps that every Twitch broadcaster should take when setting up a very professional Twitch stream. If production value is important to you then be sure you don't skip any of these implementations.
1. A basic stream and webcam
I hear some people say that you don't need a webcam and to some extent it can be true, but as Twitch continues to evolve so do the expectations of the viewers. The webcam is the single greatest engagement tool you can implement, far more important than the rest of the tips in this post. Even though it is something so simple it is critical.
2. A professional looking overlay
A overlay gives you an opportunity to not only stand out graphically but to share a lot of important information with your viewers. Of course you want to keep it clean and minimal but that doesn't mean you should half-ass this one. There are lots of tutorials out there as well as graphic designers willing to help you out.
3. High Quality Audio & Music
Having crisp audio is so critical if you want to grow as a Twitch streamer. Nothing turns viewers off more than scratchy audio, feedback, echos, overly loud music or overly quiet commentary. Some people think that audio is even more important than the visuals and I have to agree.
You need a high quality mic and you'll want to make sure your music doesn't overpower your mic levels. If you are running OBS try upping the mic levels with some +1 boost just to be sure you are coming across nice and clear.
OBS Audio Settings
4. Multi-scene production
The next thing to do is to add multiple scenes to your OBS setup. This really takes your production value to another level. It adds a lot of variety to your stream and one of the lesser known reasons to do so is to have visuals that allow you to stand out in the Twitch directory. If you only have visuals of the game you will look at every other stream.
So critical that you stand out in the directory
5. Twitch Alerts for followers, subs and donations
Twitch Alerts is just too easy to implement not to use it. It is one of the easiest ways to integrate alerts on your stream. Although it seems that big followers alerts are falling by the wayside for something a little more modest, alerts still remain popular for when the broadcaster wants to recognize donators, hosters and subscribers (new and recurring).
6. Stream Labels
Stream Labels are also provided by Twitch Alerts so if you are going to implement alerts you might as well at some stream labels. This allows you to add dynamic text on your stream such as follower goals, recent donators, latest subscribers and many many more.
7. Offline Graphics
A killer offline graphic is very helpful for when viewers visit your channel when you are offline. It allows them to still get a sense of your channel and hopefully you add your schedule so they know when you will be back online.
We don't see the schedule but this is a pro looking offline image.
8. Professional Looking Panel Setup
Panels are so key for professional broadcasters. They provide an opportunity to share a bit about yourself, links to social media, explain sub perks and especially other monetized links.
9. A YouTube Channel Linked to Twitch
If you are going to be running a live video stream on Twitch then it makes sense to have a YouTube channel as well. There are really two main reasons for doing so: extending your content to VODs and also capturing new viewers through YouTube's direct link to your live stream.
YouTube implemented an option that when you are live on Twitch all of your videos will have an annotation that is clickable and links directly to your live stream.
10. Moobot and automated chat notes
Moobot has become the go to bot moderator for Twitch. There are so many powerful functions on Moobot and given that it's basically free for most of the options I would say this is a must-add for any stream. There are some alternates out there but this one is tried and true.
One of the most popular features is the ability to add commands like !schedule, !specs !bio, etc. When a viewer enters those commands in chat they are automatically returned information preset by the viewer. This allows streamers to be responsive to viewer interests and questions without having to do everything manually.
11. Monetization
Even before you hit partner with Twitch there are so many monetization methods that can help you stay alive financially while you continue to grow your stream. You could use affiliate links, a private sales funnel, private sponsors and many more.
Of course we can't forget about donations and tips. Gamewisp is a nice option and so is Patreon.
While this certainly isn't necessary it will be something that pro streamers do whether they are partnered or not.
If you are ready to take your stream to the next level and work towards partnership on Twitch then certainly don't skip out on any of these implementations which are all easy to do. Good luck and have fun with it!
Stay live,
