Getting started and developing a new channel on Yandex Zen can be challenging, much like starting and developing a new YouTube channel or blog, especially when competing against more established channels.
This is why Yandex have introduced the Aurora program, for new Zen channels during their first three months, as data has shown that this time period is often make or break for new channels, and when most authors abandon their channel.
Authors participating in the Aurora program will be shown how to grow and get to their first 500 subscribers, as well as help them apply for the Nirvana program, a separate Zen support program for more committed and experienced Zen authors.
The Aurora Program
Designed to last two months, broken into two phases – a priority support period and a promotional period.
Priority Channel Support
Zen support staff will closely monitor the channel, and provide the author recommendations on creating content, and help with technical advice on working on the platform.
This close support between Zen staff and Zen author is geared towards rewarding author efforts through channel growth, and increasing the author retention rate – thus increasing the amount of content being generated and shared on the Zen platform.
Promotion Period
Once the author has shown a level of committment and understanding of how to work the Zen platform and it’s seeing some traction organically (through the efforts of the author), Yandex will aid growth through promotion.
During the promotion period, support will be given to drive an additional 50,000 impressions to the channel for each new article published, over a two week period.
It is important to remember and note, that if your channel isn’t of interest to users and the content isn’t engaging, or is far too niche, it’s not possible to perform miracles.
Aurora Program Criteria
To qualify for the Aurora program, the below criteria need to be met:
- The Zen channel needs to be less than three months old
- The channel publishes at least one article or video per week
- The content being produced is unique and of a high-quality (objective, but a key criteria)
- The channel doesn’t use harmful or obscene language
- The channel design, and cards, complies with Zen guidelines