ShoutOut founder, Dan Gable has written an article on elite business about viral content and the reality in which we live in where contagious content is seen all around us.
In the wake of Covid-19, we’ve all become familiar with the concept of the basic reproduction number, or R number—the metric that dictates whether we head into lockdown. But have you ever considered the contagiousness of content itself? Just like a virus, content can spread rapidly across the digital landscape, captivating audiences and sparking conversations. In this blog, we delve into the art of creating highly contagious content and explore what makes it so infectious.
First and foremost, it’s essential to understand that not all content is created equal. While investing in influencers or paid campaigns can extend your reach, true contagiousness comes from the content itself. Simply put, viral content spreads organically, propelled by shares, comments, and discussions that transcend the confines of social media.
So, what’s the secret to making your content contagious? It boils down to one simple question: How does sharing your content reflect on the person who shares it? People are inherently social creatures, driven by a desire to be liked and respected. As such, they’re more likely to engage with content that aligns with their values and enhances their image.
Here are a few key strategies for contagious and viral content creation:
- Humor: Funny content resonates because it showcases our wit and intelligence. By sharing a humorous post, individuals convey their sense of humor and smartness, boosting their social currency in the process.
- Compassion: Compassionate content, such as social justice initiatives or charitable endeavors, strikes a chord with audiences. Sharing such content signals one’s empathy and inclusivity, fostering a sense of connection and community.
- Triumph Over Adversity: Stories of overcoming challenges and adversity are inherently shareable. By sharing these narratives, individuals demonstrate resilience and empathy while inspiring others to persevere in the face of hardship.
- Leverage Fame: Content shared by celebrities or influencers often garners attention simply by association. Leveraging the fame and status of well-known figures can amplify the reach and impact of your content.
- Novel Ideas: Sharing innovative or thought-provoking concepts signals intellectual curiosity and sophistication. By sharing new and interesting ideas, individuals position themselves as forward-thinking and knowledgeable.
- Controversy: Provocative or controversial topics can spark heated debates and moral outrage, driving engagement and social validation. However, this approach carries inherent risks and should be used judiciously.
Ultimately, the key to creating contagious content lies in understanding the motivations of potential sharers. By crafting content that aligns with their values and aspirations, you can increase the likelihood of it being shared and discussed within your target audience.
In conclusion, creating contagious content is as much about psychology as it is about creativity. By appealing to people’s innate desires for connection, validation, and self-expression, you can create content that resonates deeply and spreads like wildfire across the digital landscape. So, the next time you’re crafting content, keep in mind the power of contagiousness—and watch your ideas spread far and wide.
Read the article to find out more about viral content and tips on how to achieve it.
