Viral Videos and How to Achieve Virality
Every content creator aspires for their videos to go viral, but how can this be accomplished? And how can you determine if a video is truly viral?
What Does “Viral” Mean?
A video is deemed “viral” when it spreads rapidly across the internet, akin to a virus. People share it, send it to friends through private messages, repost it, and leave comments.
While there’s no foolproof way to guarantee a video will go viral—many viral videos weren’t intended to be—certain common characteristics often define them.
Viral videos can boost personal and brand visibility and can turn anyone or anything into an overnight sensation.
Examples of Iconic Viral Videos
Virtually any video on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok has the potential to go viral. Whether it’s a prank, a music video, or a cute clip featuring animals or babies, the possibilities are endless. Some of the most renowned viral videos include:
- Baby Shark: A children’s song with over 10 billion views.
- Despacito: Luis Fonsi’s hit song with around 8 billion views.
- See You Again: Wiz Khalifa’s track with 5.5 billion views.
These are just a few examples—there are thousands of viral videos across various platforms globally.
How to Increase the Chances of Your Video Going Viral
So, how many views constitute a viral video? This is difficult to pin down. Five years ago, we might have said a million views; today, it’s more likely around 5 to 7 million. However, the number of views alone isn’t the only factor—how quickly a video gains views is also crucial. A video might reach a million views in a day or over a year; the latter doesn’t usually qualify as viral.
While there’s no guaranteed formula for virality, several strategies can enhance your video’s chances:
- Evoke Emotions
Viral videos often tap into strong emotions. Positive feelings, like joy or amusement, are common, as seen in clips featuring cute animals or babies. However, videos that provoke negative emotions—such as anger or fear—can also spread widely if they resonate with viewers and prompt them to share and discuss. - Keep It Brief
Attention spans are shorter than ever. Short, engaging videos are more likely to attract viewers and encourage sharing than longer content. Aim to keep your video under a minute to maintain viewer interest and increase the likelihood of it being shared. - Ensure High Quality
The bar for video quality has risen significantly. Viewers now expect clear visuals, good sound, and polished editing. If you lack advanced software, consider using an online video editor to enhance your content. - Persist
Don’t be discouraged if your first video doesn’t go viral. It’s unlikely to succeed immediately. Keep creating and refining your approach—persistence is key.
By focusing on these elements, you can improve your chances of creating a video that captures attention and spreads widely.