Notes - How to Succeed at Mr. Beast Production

September 18, 2024

Goal of MrBeast Production

The primary goal is to create the best YouTube videos possible. This means prioritizing content that resonates with the YouTube audience over traditional production values.
MrBeast explicitly rejects the Hollywood model, believing that YouTube's future is brighter and demands a different approach.
He emphasizes nimbleness, flexibility, and a deep understanding of YouTube's unique dynamics.

Employee Expectations

The company values results over hours worked. While hard work is appreciated, employees are judged on their ability to deliver outcomes.
MrBeast seeks "A Players": obsessive, coachable individuals who are the best at what they do.
He considers "C Players" (average employees) to be poisonous and advocates for their immediate removal.

Chapter 1: YouTube Virality

MrBeast spent years studying what makes YouTube videos successful. He highlights three key metrics: Click-Through Rate (CTR), Average View Duration (AVD), and Average View Percentage (AVP).
CTR is crucial and is influenced by compelling thumbnails and titles that create high expectations.
AVD is about keeping viewers engaged. The first minute is critical, with a sharp focus on a strong opening.
The document provides strategies for maintaining viewer attention in the first few minutes, including "crazy progression" and "3-minute re-engagement."
It further outlines content strategies for subsequent time segments, emphasizing a balance of excitement and simplicity.
MrBeast underscores the importance of understanding the "wow factor," which refers to elements that leave a lasting impression on viewers. While subjective and not easily trackable, this factor contributes to brand differentiation and viewer engagement.

Chapter 2: Creating Content

This chapter emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and improvement, especially through watching YouTube content.
Employees are encouraged to proactively identify and address bottlenecks in the production process.
Documenting everything through video is stressed for team awareness and better communication.
The importance of transparency is highlighted, urging employees to "say the negatives" when reporting on progress or challenges.
Employees are urged to take ownership of their projects and avoid "dumping and forgetting." This includes meticulous tracking and regular check-ins with contractors and collaborators.

Understanding MrBeast's Perspective

MrBeast acknowledges that he is not always right, highlighting the demands of his multifaceted role.
He encourages employees to approach him with well-researched options and context to facilitate better decision-making.

Critical Components

Critical Components are elements essential to a video's success. These components require extra attention, backup plans, and immediate escalation of any issues.

Communication

Clear communication lines and proper protocols are crucial. The document advises on the appropriate communication channels based on the situation's urgency and complexity.
Direct, in-person communication is preferred for critical matters.
Written communication should be confirmed to ensure it has been received and understood.

Accountability and Creativity

MrBeast expects employees to own their mistakes without making excuses. He sees mistakes as learning opportunities and emphasizes the importance of not repeating them.
Prioritization is key, with employees instructed to focus on their assigned tasks above all else.
Creativity is valued as a means to save money. Finding innovative solutions is encouraged, allowing for better resource allocation.

Production Practices

Backup days are considered essential for mitigating unforeseen issues.
Employees are instructed to "dig deeper" and not accept things at face value, particularly when dealing with external parties.
Thorough investigation and verification are necessary to avoid potential problems.

Other Notable Insights

MrBeast prefers not to have unnecessary people on set, aiming to create a natural environment for talent.
Honesty and direct feedback are valued over being overly polite.
Treating talent with respect and ensuring their well-being is emphasized.
Simplicity is generally preferred in content.
MrBeast advocates for working with intensity and proactivity.
He encourages finding content opportunities in unexpected situations.
The importance of feasibility assessments is highlighted.
Maintaining a positive public image is paramount.
Clear distinction between "Pre-Vis" (accurate representations of the final product) and "Concept" (inspirational renderings) is crucial to avoid confusion.

Chapter 3: Creative

MrBeast Productions is a creative-first company, believing that prioritizing creative vision leads to superior content.
Employees in all departments are encouraged to be on the lookout for inspiration and share it with the creative team.
Problem-solving should always consider the impact on the creative vision.

The Goal of Content

The ultimate goal is to excite MrBeast himself. His excitement stems from a belief that it aligns with what will please the audience.
MrBeast is passionate about continuous improvement and innovation in all aspects of content creation.

Defining Good Content

Good content is subjective and limitless, with potential found in even the simplest objects.
While creativity is essential, YouTube's format demands structure and storytelling rules.
Content must be simple to resonate with a massive, diverse audience.

Measuring Content Success

AVD and AVP are the key metrics for evaluating content success. High retention rates indicate viewer satisfaction and predict video performance.

Formats

Formats provide structure and boost retention. Examples include "Last to Leave" challenges, "Stair Stepping" progressions, and "Chase" scenarios.
While viewers may express a desire for specific formats, MrBeast believes in continuously evolving and introducing new ideas to prevent staleness.

Understanding the Audience

MrBeast's audience is broad, with global reach.
Despite the diverse demographics, the core viewer is described as a teenage "memer" who enjoys video games.

The Value of Watching MrBeast Videos

Employees are strongly encouraged to watch a significant amount of MrBeast content, particularly from the main channel.
This is seen as crucial for understanding the brand's history, evolution, and nuances.

Brand Deals as Content

MrBeast Productions takes a unique approach to brand deals, integrating them seamlessly into the content to avoid disrupting viewer engagement.
This strategy has proven successful, with high conversion rates and residual customer acquisition.

Understanding Culture

"Information Diet" refers to the media and content an individual consumes.
MrBeast uses Chris Tyson as an example of someone whose information diet (cartoons and humorous content) directly contributes to his comedic talent.
Writers and directors are encouraged to cultivate an information diet that provides inspiration and keeps them attuned to current culture and trends.

Additional Creative Insights

Talent is encouraged to be authentic and embrace their natural humor, even if it's childish.
Authenticity is paramount, avoiding any situations that require dishonesty.
Content should be dynamic, avoiding dull moments.
Intensity should be genuine and not forced.
Videos should end abruptly to maintain retention.
On-set behavior should be attentive and engaged.

Chapter 4: Career Development at MrBeast Productions

MrBeast emphasizes the potential for growth and career development within the company.
He stresses a meritocratic approach, where promotions are based on performance and value contributed.
Employees are encouraged to proactively seek feedback and work on improving their skills.
MrBeast highlights his commitment to rewarding high-performing employees with financial compensation and unique experiences. He envisions the company's continued growth, offering employees the opportunity to be part of something extraordinary.