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What Goes Into a Viral Video? Secrets Behind High-Performing Content 

Secrets Behind High-Performing Content 

Have you ever viewed a video which made you exclaim “Wow!”? That blew up! “? 

Perhaps the video was humorous, heartwarming or featured an incredible daredevil act. But what makes a video go viral? What causes some videos to attract millions of views whereas others barely receive attention?

Viral videos occur as a result of deliberate planning rather than random chance.

There’s science behind them! We will examine the essential components that help videos achieve viral status on the internet.

The very first few seconds must contain a powerful hook to grab viewers’ attention.

The very first few seconds must contain a powerful hook to grab viewers' attention.
Credits: Flux

People scroll fast. Videos that fail to capture viewers’ attention within 3-5 seconds will be skipped over. The powerful hook of viral videos captures viewers’ attention and makes them stop and watch.

What works as a hook? 

  • A shocking fact or statistic 
  • An emotional statement 
  • A dramatic visual 
  • A relatable moment 

Think about MrBeast’s videos. He grabs attention with outrageous declarations such as “I spent 50 hours buried alive.” That’s the power of a good hook! 

Emotional Connection 

Emotional Connection 
Credits: Flux

Emotions drive shares. Content that triggers laughter or tears and inspires viewers or shocks them is highly shareable among people. Videos that successfully trigger powerful emotions tend to achieve viral status.

Types of emotions that work best: 

  • Happiness: Funny videos, feel-good moments 
  • Surprise: Unbelievable facts, unexpected twists 
  • Inspiration: Rags-to-riches stories, motivational content 
  • Fear/Shock: Something extreme, dangerous, or unbelievable 

People share videos because they want others to experience the same feelings.

Relatability 

Relatability 
Credits: Flux

People frequently comment “That’s so me!” when they watch viral videos. or “I’ve been there!” People show more interest in videos that reflect their daily life experiences.

For example: 

  • Funny struggles of working from home 
  • Awkward moments we all face 
  • Parenting challenges which every parent can identify with

People share videos with their audience more frequently when the content feels familiar and relatable to them.

Keep It Short and Engaging 

Keep It Short and Engaging
Credits: Flux

Attention spans are shorter than ever. The ideal length for a viral video? 15 to 60 seconds. Viral potential exists for longer videos but they must maintain consistent viewer engagement throughout the duration.

Tips to keep videos engaging: 

  • Cut out unnecessary parts 
  • Use quick edits and smooth transitions 
  • Always insert captions because numerous viewers prefer watching videos without sound.
  • Include exciting music and sound effects 

Storytelling is Key 

Storytelling is Key 
Credits: Flux

A short video needs to deliver its own mini-story to maintain viewer interest. Stories capture people’s interest and hold their attention until the conclusion. A great viral video follows a structure: 

  • Hook: Grab attention instantly. 
  • Build-up: Create excitement or curiosity. 
  • Climax: The most exciting or funny moment. 
  • Payoff: A satisfying or unexpected ending. 

By keeping them interested viewers are more likely to watch videos from start to finish.

The Power of Trends 

The Power of Trends 
Credits: Flux

You improve your viral potential by using trending topics in your content. By participating in viral challenges or sharing trending songs and memes you can become more visible to audiences.

How to find trends? 

  • Check the For You page on TikTok 
  • Look at trending hashtags on Instagram & Twitter 
  • Follow top influencers in your niche 

But remember: Make the trend your own! Make your content distinctive to ensure it stands out.

Smart Use of Hashtags & Titles 

Smart Use of Hashtags & Titles 
Credits: Flux

Hashtags help videos reach the right audience. Your video attracts a larger audience when you use trending or relevant hashtags.

Best practices for hashtags: 

  • Combine widespread hashtags with niche-specific ones (#Viral, #Trending, #FunnyMoments).
  • Use branded hashtags if you have one 
  • Keep it relevant to your content 

Also, titles and thumbnails matter. The appearance of thumbnails and titles should inform people about the video content before they click. A title such as “You Won’t Believe What Happened Next!” generates curiosity and encourages people to click on the content.

Call to Action (CTA) Matters 

Many viral videos conclude with prompts for viewers to tag friends or follow for additional content? A basic CTA has the power to create substantial change. Direct instructions make people more inclined to follow them.

Some great CTAs for viral videos: 

  • “Tag someone who needs to see this!” 
  • “Hit like if you agree!” 
  • “Share this with your friends!” 
  • “Follow for more crazy content!” 

 The Right Platform Matters 

Every social platform features its own distinctive kind of viral videos.

  • TikTok and Instagram Reels deliver short videos that keep users engaged while staying trendy.
  • YouTube Shorts – Shorter versions of popular content 
  • Facebook & Twitter – Relatable, shareable clips 
  • LinkedIn – Professional and inspirational content 
  • Identify your audience’s platform preferences before producing platform-specific content.

Consistency is Key 

A single viral moment proves successful but maintaining ongoing relevance proves superior. Top content creators continued to produce new content instead of resting on the success of their first viral video. Posting content consistently improves your likelihood of achieving viral success.

Quick tip: It’s okay when videos don’t go viral. Keep experimenting, keep creating, and stay consistent. 

Ready to Create Viral Videos? 

You now understand the secrets so go ahead and implement them! We understand that producing exceptional content requires dedicated time and creative skill.

That’s where Reset Media comes in. We produce high-caliber videos that capture attention and retain viewer interest. Our services provide complete coverage for brand videos, viral social media content and stunning visuals.

Contact Reset Media now to turn your next video into a viral sensation!