1 Learn the concept
There is an art and a science to making your content spread across social media and other channels. Nobody can guarantee a viral hit, but you can increase the chances by understanding why people share. This lesson explains the key components of viral content: emotion, usefulness, identity and ease of sharing.
2 See it in action
- Emotion: people share what makes them feel something.
- Usefulness: practical tips are passed on.
- Identity: people share content that reflects who they are.
- Make sharing easy, and be ready for success.
Worked example
Designing for sharing
Idea: a free "Plant Care Cheat Sheet".
Make it shareable: a clean one-page image people can post.
Make it joinable: ask followers to share their own plant photos with a hashtag.
Result to look for: shares and tagged posts, not only views.
Reminder: do not rely on a single viral hit. Build a steady rhythm.
3 Study an example
Real-world case study
The ALS Ice Bucket Challenge
What they did. In summer 2014, people posted videos of dumping ice water on themselves, then nominated friends to do the same or donate to fight ALS. Celebrities and ordinary people joined, and the format spread through social media.
What happened. The ALS Association reported receiving about $115 million in donations during an eight-week period, and later said the funds helped increase its research spending.
What to take away. It was simple to do, visual, social and tied to a cause, with a built-in way to challenge others. It also faded, which shows how hard it is to repeat. Plan for steady content as well as the occasional hit.
Totals are as reported by the ALS Association and news outlets.
Sources CBS News: Ice Bucket Challenge impact · Marketplace: ALS Ice Bucket Challenge numbers
4 Apply it and download
- Score an idea on emotion, usefulness and identity.
- Improve the weakest.
- Plan how people will share it.
Worksheet Viral idea checklistOpen, print or save as PDF