Recall investing countless hours on a video that you considered to be your masterpiece, only to have it ignored, while a random dog doing a silly trick receives millions of views? It is perplexing and indeed enraging.
The facts, however, are these: there is logic behind viral videos. Adding in the elements of viral marketing into your filmmaking ventures will increase the likelihood of your content trending. With the right understanding, everyone can use these tactics to increase the shareability of their videos.
This article will aid in enhancing your odds of going viral by revealing the critical factors behind the shareability of videos, the importance of emotions and storylines, and the major influence of storytelling. These pointers will enable any aspiring filmmaker or content creator looking to expand their footprint globally to craft stories worth sharing.
What Is a Viral Video, Really?
A viral video is any video which is shared over social media and receives a lot of views in a short span of time. This can take the form of anything from an amusing video to a shocking story. The key point is that people are persuaded to share it with others.
You don’t need to have millions of views to classify something as “viral.” What is more important is how quickly it spreads and how much it is shared without any paid advertisements.
Why People Share: The Power of Emotion
Feelings top the list of reasons for videos to be shared. When people feel any emotion, they are more inclined to share the video with their friends.
Reports suggest that videos that evoke strong emotions such as the following are most likely to be shared:
- Amusement (humorous videos)
- Awe (surprising facts and captivating visuals)
- Inspiration (motivative stories)
- Anger or shock (bizarre or controversial content)
Most people may not appreciate videos that are dull and do not evoke emotion. On the other hand, when a video can elicit feelings like sorrow, laughter, or inspiration, they will want to share it
Example:
- A guy drops off his sneakers for the needy, and just like that, we have motivation.
- A chuckle reminiscent of a toddler is heard as a snorting dog makes an entrance, isn’t that cute and funny!
- Captivating information regarding the waste of food, now that is sure to alter perceptions.
In the creation of viral content, the main focus should be emotional appeal, followed by video quality.
The First 3 Seconds Are Everything
Attention spans for videos consumed on the Internet are short— extremely short. A large portion of the audience determines if they will stay and watch your video within the very first 3 seconds. If you don’t capture them right away, they will just continue scrolling.
So what do we do in order to make that strong start?
- Pose a compelling question.
- Display the unusual.
- Commence from the midst of action.
No long logos, slow intro, or dull text slides. The very second something interesting is presented, feel free to hook your viewers.
Make It Relatable
Individuals will be more willing to share a video when they notice themself in it.
Consider this for a moment; when a person shares a video, they share it as, “Here, look at me,” or “This is what I feel and think.” They are using the video as a reflection of their character, attitude, or humor.
To achieve this, construct narratives that appeal to universal phenomena such as love, friendship, struggle, family, or even identity.
To relate to a person does not require overflowing funds. All that is needed is to comprehend what is critical to the audience.
Add a Surprise Element
Everyone appreciates a good surprise. A twist ending in your video or an unexpected joke will capture attention.
Breaking regular patterns is what makes surprises powerful. Our brains are wired to pay attention to things that are different. That’s why we are motivated to watch longer or revisit the video. This increases views and the chances for a video to go viral.
Example:
- A cooking video goes viral after it unexpectedly ends with a surprise prank
- A quiet dance performance which suddenly turns into an interview.
- Including the element of the unexpected fuels interest in the content.
Help People Look Good When They Share
This may be peculiar, but a lot of people share clips for the sole reason of enhancing their image. This is referred to as “social currency.”
If a video makes someone appear smart, kind, witty, or even ahead of the trend, they will most probably share it. So consider how your content can assist someone in expressing something they would want to show off regarding the virtues.
Ask yourself:
- Does this video portray the viewer as intriguing or intelligent?
- Is this something they would proudly share with their friends?
- Will they enjoy sharing this?
When a video aids users in reinforcing their values or personality, it becomes much more impactful.
Good Storytelling Still Matters
Even short videos require a concise storyline. Even the most viral videos adhere to a certain format, even if it’s only 30 seconds long.
Here’s a quick 3-step formula:
- Beginning – Present the characters or the story setting.
- Middle – Exhibit the conflict or the build-up.
- Finale – Reveal the twist, conclusion, or payoff.
Even humorous and heartwarming clips benefit from this framework. Stories without a clear vision often fail midway, but a well-directed video is far more engaging—and popular.
Pay Attention to the Platform
Every social media platform operates distinctly. What is popular on YouTube is not guaranteed to be popular on TikTok or Instagram.
As a rule of thumb:
- Do not exceed five minutes. Keep content succinct and direct.
- Whether people are muted or not, aids like captions or texts help a great deal to narrate a story.
- Develop content that sparks lively comments, engagement, and sharing.
- Follow current trends, but always add a hint of yourself.
Videos that attract a lot of viewership and discussions are loved by algorithms. The better your video is, the more the platform will promote it.
Virality Isn’t Everything—But It Can Open Doors
Viral success can be achieved overnight, it’s not a business strategy we can rely on. You probably won’t see an uplift in your career because of a singular, viral video.
Regardless, it can help you network, build an audience, and increase your overall popularity. It brings you, your brand, or your business notoriety.
That being said, it’s vital to have content ready right after it happens to be after the dust settles. A website, social media handle, merchandise, necessary informative content, or most importantly, reason for people to stay is vital.
Instead of only aiming for virality it is smarter to try and remain relevant even after the excess slowdown in views.
Final Thought: People First, Algorithm Second
Here is something to note: yes the algorithm matters, but it is always trailing behind people. If your content is appealing, the algorithm will pay attention to it. If it is not appealing, no gimmicks will do the trick.
So look into the customer. Grasp what makes them tick. Make them experience some genuine emotion. Don’t tell them what they want, present a tale that they will want to tell others.
This is what the telling of stories that go viral makes the most sense.
Want More Tips Like This?
Here at Reset Media, we assist filmmakers and other content creators to build captivating stories and connect with a larger audience. We provide helpful, easy-to-follow guides on everything from storytelling and production to make sure you can actually apply the knowledge.
Look up Reset Media for further articles, tutorials, and helpful information to aid your growth as a filmmaker and storyteller.