There is pretty much one goal in social media: going viral. Unfortunately, the mythical “viral button” is like having access to the nuclear codes. But keep trying! When just one piece of your content becomes viral, millions will see it.
While that visibility sounds appealing, here’s the real secret behind going viral: It’s mostly out of your hands. Reaching the masses with a post is not as simple as flipping a switch. However, becoming a viral sensation is easy to do.
It’s “easy” to go viral because it’s not about effort. It’s something that happens to you, not something you can typically make happen. In fact, most content that becomes viral does so practically overnight!
The formula: Having the right content in front of the right audience at exactly the right time. You need one other key ingredient: luck.
While this may sound like a letdown, the good news is that you can still reach your target audience by managing your social media the old-fashioned way. No luck necessary, just hard work and dedication. Besides, if you do end up going viral, you’ll want to have these key components in place before all your new fans come rushing in!
Keep It Consistent
If you aren’t posting consistently, you’re reaching fewer people and not engaging your audience regularly. A large part of social media is utilizing your platforms to build relationships with your followers. Think about it like keeping in touch with a friend. If you don’t hear from them in a while, you may think you bond isn’t as strong. Having a regular posting schedule on your social media channels will maintain a connection with your fans and keep them coming back.
Don’t Quit Quality
If you’re focused on consistency, keep in mind one of the golden rules of content: Quality over quantity. There’s no point in posting regular content that doesn’t serve your audience. Having consistent content that isn’t high quality is one of the biggest mistakes you can make when managing your brand’s social media. In fact, one of the main reasons fans will eventually unfollow a social media account is because the content is boring. Know your brand voice, understand how your audience likes to be engaged, and continue to deliver content that is valuable to your business and your fans.
Have A Clear Landing Zone
You may have quality content, but that’s not the end all be all. Your social media channels should be driving web traffic to your website. That’s the hub and home base behind all of your social media marketing efforts. Without a clean, professional website for new fans to flock to, your business won’t be ready for instant fame. Your website should have an easy-to-navigate layout, a clear call to action, and a way to contact your business directly. And don’t forget to link your website to your social media channels!
Still determined to take your business to viral heights? Check out this blog about the pros and cons of going viral.
