How to Make a Viral Video? Tips & Tricks to Online Success

How can we forget the catchy rhythm of Despacito? It’s been over 7 years since it made waves! With over 8 billion views on YouTube, this song took the world by storm, becoming a cultural phenomenon that transcended language barriers. But have you ever stopped to wonder what made it so wildly viral? Was it the infectious beat, the collaboration, or the visuals?

Now, think about the last video you shared with a friend or reposted on your social media. What made you do it? The answer is understanding how viral content connects with people emotionally, culturally, or humorously. In the blog ‘How to Make a Viral Video?  Tips & Tricks to Online Success’, let us walk through the trick behind these viral videos, how to create them, as well as the common mistakes to avoid when you create them.

What’s the Psychology Behind Videos Going Viral?

When it comes to viral videos, emotions are at the core. A viral video depends not solely on luck but rather on how well it connects with an audience on an emotional level. Videos that excite some sort of emotion like laughter, joy, or even anger are the videos most likely to get shared. Emotional appeal is what makes one want to share the video. And, videos that touch on real-life issues are always a bonanza. Have you ever watched one of those ‘Expectation vs. Reality’ videos? You can’t help but laugh, right? The more people relate to your content, the more feasible it is for the piece to go viral.

Another key factor is surprise. People love surprises and unexpected twists, be it funny or just simply mindblowing. Mannequin Challenge or flash mobs? No one expected those to blow up, and it is exactly those unanticipated results that make them so shareable. Then comes social proof. The moment a video has gained a little bit of traction with thousands of views and shares some folks love sharing. It is human nature to jump on the bandwagon when everyone else is doing something. The more users engage with your video, the higher the likelihood that others will begin to engage as well, helping the viral vortex take charge.

Trending Example: Take the Wednesday dance by Jenna Ortega from Netflix’s Wednesday. It wasn’t just about the choreography but how viewers across all age groups felt compelled to recreate it, turning it into a global sensation. Why? Because it was quirky, shareable, and easy to imitate!

So, How to Make a Viral Video?

If you are dreaming of that viral moment, here are 8 actionable tips to get you started:

Start with a Hook

It’s the initial few seconds that count. Attract attention right away with a bold statement, an eye-catching image, or an interesting question. Make the most of those seconds because people’s attention spans are limited.

Tell a Story

People are looking for a story, not simply content. Even if your video is only 30 seconds long, make sure it has a beginning, middle, and end. 

Make It Shareable

Ask yourself: “Would I share this video?” Keep your content relatable, funny, or inspiring. Bonus points if it’s short and sweet, under 2 minutes is often ideal.

Leverage Trends

Trends should be your best friend here. Whether it’s a popular meme, a dance challenge, or a current event, tap into what’s already buzzing. Tools like TikTok and Instagram Reels are two examples of tools that thrive on trending content.

Add Music That Clicks

Music sets the tone. Choose a track that really fits the mood of your video. Look at Reels challenges; many go viral because of their soundtracks. Pair the right beat with your visuals, and you are halfway there.

Be Authentic

Audiences can spot fake content very easily. Be genuine in your approach. So, it is better to keep it real, whatever your content is.

Optimize for Social Media

Every platform has its quirks. For Instagram, focus on vertical videos. For YouTube, work on thumbnails and titles. Design your content to suit the platform you are posting on.

Call to Action (CTA)

Do you want your video to be shared? Sometimes asking is all you need to do! Sayings like “Tag your friends,” “Share if you agree,” or “Can you relate?” can inspire viewers to share the content.

Can Viral Videos Benefit Your Business?

Of course! Videos that go viral can help your business grow. They can assist in the following five simple yet effective ways:

• Massive Reach

A single viral video can put your brand in front of millions of viewers. It’s like getting free advertising on a global scale.

• Increased Engagement

More views will definitely lead to more likes, shares, and comments. This interaction creates an engaged community along with increasing visibility.

• Improved Brand Awareness

People remember brands associated with viral content. Do you remember Old Spice’s legendary “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” campaign, it’s still iconic years later!

• Boost in Sales

Viral videos can directly influence purchasing decisions. A creative product demo or testimonial video can drive people to click that “Buy Now” button.

• Enhanced Credibility

When your video goes viral, it positions your brand as trendy and relatable, earning trust and credibility in the eyes of consumers.

Viral Video: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the best intentions can go wrong. Here are seven major as well as common mistakes to steer clear of:

Focusing Only on Going Viral

If “going viral” is your only goal, you might miss the mark. Focus on creating meaningful content instead.

Overloading with Information

Keep it simple. Too much information can overwhelm viewers and reduce shareability.

Ignoring Quality

Poor video quality can turn viewers away instantly. You may invest in good lighting, sound, and editing tools.

Forgetting Your Target Audience

Know who you’re creating for. A video that resonates with Gen Z might not appeal to Baby Boomers.

Skipping the CTA

Without a clear call to action, viewers may watch your video but not engage further.

Neglecting the Platform

Posting the same video across all platforms without customization like resizing at least is a rookie mistake. Optimize for each channel.

Being Too Salesy

Hard sales are a big turnoff. People want entertainment or value, not just ads.