The Payoff refers to a satisfying conclusion, does it deliver on its promise, is there a lesson learned, a call to action perhaps, a next step, did they feel your content was worth the time investment, enough to like, comment, share, rewatch, subscribe…
Think about the last time you watched a good movie or read a book that was good throughout, but the ending fell flat. That’s likely all you remember and will then determine how you would rate or recommend that movie or book.
On the other hand, if you watch or read a mediocre movie or book, but the ending surprises you or exceeds your expectation, then you will likely walk away with much stronger feelings of that movie or book.
Content is the same way.
A powerful ending can be the reason you like, comment, share, rewatch, subscribe, etc. All of these are strong signals for many of the social algorithms.
When someone subscribes and turns on notifications to your channel, that is the ultimate signal that they find your content entertaining, educational, inspiring, trustworthy, etc. and they want more, and they don’t want to miss it.