ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) – In the age of TikTok, YouTube Shorts, Facebook and Instagram Reels, a single video has the potential to reach millions— that is if it hits the right chords. While there is no guaranteed formula for virality, there are proven strategies that dramatically increase your chances.
To celebrate Viral Video Day on April 29, here are some expert-tier tips to help your videos find an audience online. But remember, do not over think it. Most often, the unexpected videos go the most viral.
1. Hook Viewers in the First 3 Seconds
Online attention spans are short, and getting shorter over time. If your video does not grab someone’s attention immediately, they will most likely scroll past or click away, regardless of how well your video is produced. Use a shocking statement, a bold visual, or ask a question at the start to make people stop and watch to find out the resolution to what you set up.
2. Tell a Compelling Story
Perhaps a no brainer, people connect with emotion-driven narratives far more than random content. Even short videos should have a structure. Try planning your content to include a setup, build-up and payoff. Think of your videos as mini movies with exposition, conflict and a satisfying resolution. And like a great movie, keep the tension and emotion high throughout to retain viewer engagement.
3. Keep It Short
The general rule is the shorter the better. 15–45 second videos tend to perform better on most platforms, with the notable exception of Facebook. Respect your viewer’s time and avoid fluff. If your content is longer, make sure every second counts. Follow this rule: never say in two minutes what could be said in 30 seconds.
4. Know Your Audience
Tailor your content to the people you want to reach. Use the language, humor and references people in that community use. This makes your video feel personal and relevant. This is most easily accomplished by making a video people in your personal demographic would watch. Since you are a part of it, you already know the ins and outs, the inside jokes and lingo. Doing this also adds a level of authenticity online viewers value.
5. Add a Call-to-Action
Encourage viewers to like, share, comment or follow your account. A simple line like “Tag a friend who would want this” or “Like if you agree” can significantly increase engagement. This will help your account in two ways. First, it will increase the reach of the video you are hoping to go viral. Second, it will increase the engagement on your account as a whole, alerting the algorithm to push more of your content to viewers.
6. Make It Relatable
Emotions are subjective, but people often share similar feelings in certain situations. Viral videos often tap into these nearly universal feelings, such as humor, nostalgia, frustration and joy. If viewers see themselves in your content, they are more likely to share it with others who will relate too. The best way to maximize emotion is to act. Just like a great play, the feelings displayed on stage are more intense than would be anticipated in the real world. It makes for a better show and for a better video too.
