People dream of creating digital products that go viral. Their online posts spread like wildfire, gaining thousands of views, likes, shares, and comments within minutes. But what exactly makes content go viral? Let’s delve into the secrets shared by top digital marketing experts to attract audiences and inspire sharing.
WHAT IS VIRAL CONTENT?
Viral content refers to any kind of media—video, blog post, meme, or tweet—that spreads rapidly across the internet. It resonates emotionally with the audience, evoking laughter, surprise, or inspiration, and creates a connection that compels people to share it
WHY DOES CONTENT GO VIRAL?
Digital marketing professionals highlight a few key factors that drive virality:
Emotional Shareability: Content that makes people laugh, cry, or feel inspired is more likely to be shared.
Relevance and Relatability: People share content they can identify with.
Timing: Leveraging current trends can boost a post’s chances of going viral.
Format: Simple, visually appealing content like videos or catchy headlines is more shareable.
RULES FOR CREATING VIRAL CONTENT
1. KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
Understanding your audience is the foundation of creating viral content. Research their preferences, challenges, and interests. For example, if targeting young adults, focus on trending memes, pop culture, and short, engaging videos. Aligning your content with their interests increases the likelihood of sharing.
2. STORYTELLING
Stories captivate and retain attention. Craft a narrative that begins with a problem, showcases its resolution, and ends with a memorable takeaway. Authentic success stories, especially about real people, enhance relatability and emotional connection.
3. COMPELLING IMAGERY
Visuals play a pivotal role in viral content. Use bright colors, high-resolution images, and concise videos to capture attention. A 30-second video is often more effective than lengthy ones.
4. EMOTIONAL TRIGGERS
Emotional content is the most shareable. Whether it’s a funny meme, a surprising twist, or an inspiring story, triggering emotions can significantly increase reach. For instance, a video of a dog rescuing another animal can inspire and uplift viewers.
5. USE A CALL-TO-ACTION (CTA)
An effective CTA encourages the audience to act. Whether it’s sharing a post, tagging friends, or clicking a link, a strong CTA drives engagement. For example, “Share this post if you agree!” invites participation.
6. FOLLOW TRENDS
Leveraging current trends enhances content visibility. Participate in viral challenges, use popular hashtags, or address trending topics in your niche. Adding a unique twist to these trends helps your content stand out.
7. KEEP IT SIMPLE
Clear, concise content is key. Avoid jargon and focus on a single message. Use headlines, lists, and images to make the content easy to read. Sometimes, a short one-liner tweet performs better than lengthy paragraphs.
8. SHARE AT THE RIGHT TIME
Timing is crucial for boosting reach. Post at times when your audience is most likely to be online and engaged. For instance, business-oriented content may perform better during weekday lunch hours, while teenager-focused content might do well on weekends or evenings.
9. COLLABORATE WITH INFLUENCERS
Influencers can amplify your content’s reach. Partner with influencers who align with your brand and audience. For example, a beauty brand can collaborate with makeup influencers to demonstrate their products.
10. TEST AND IMPROVE
Not all content will go viral, and that’s okay. Experiment with different formats and topics to see what resonates most with your audience. Use tools like Google Analytics and social media insights to refine your strategy.
VIRAL CONTENT IN REAL LIFE
- ALS Ice Bucket Challenge: This fun and emotionally engaging challenge raised awareness for ALS and spread like wildfire.
- Nike’s “You Can’t Stop Us” Commercial: This motivational campaign resonated deeply with audiences worldwide through powerful imagery and stories.
- ShareACoke Campaign: Coca-Cola’s personalized bottles encouraged people to share moments online, making consumers part of the brand’s story.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Creating viral content is an art that combines knowing your audience, crafting compelling stories, and evoking emotions. While luck can play a role, success is mostly about planning and execution. Experiment with different ideas and strive to build meaningful connections with your target audience. Who knows? Your next piece might just break the internet!