At Popart Films, we’re constantly experimenting with what makes a video stand out in the crowded landscape of online content. The key to going viral with your videos is knowing how to hold your audience’s attention and encourage them to engage with your content in meaningful ways.
Here’s how to do it:
1. View Duration is Everything: Hook Them with Curiosity
In the world of viral videos, watch time is the name of the game. Algorithms favor content that keeps people engaged, so the longer someone watches, the better your video will perform. But how do you keep them watching from start to finish?
Create curiosity. Start your video with an intriguing question, a surprising visual, or a tease of something big coming at the end. By hinting that the payoff is coming but delaying it, you build tension that keeps people invested. The trick is to offer just enough to hook them while holding back the resolution until the last possible moment.
For example:
- Pose a question in the first few seconds: “Ever wonder what happens when you…” and don’t reveal the answer until the end.
- Use “before-and-after” transformations, but make the audience wait for the big reveal.
If viewers feel like they’ll miss something important by clicking away, they’re far more likely to stick around.
2. Encourage Sharing: Make It Relatable
Viral content spreads because people feel compelled to share it. To create that urge, your video has to evoke strong emotions or represent something your audience identifies with.
Here’s how you can do that:
- Tap into cultural moments: Whether it’s a trending topic or a meme, making your video relevant to what’s happening in the world increases its shareability.
- Be relatable: Create content that reflects your audience’s feelings, experiences, or struggles. If they see themselves in the video, they’re more likely to share it with their circle.
- Offer value: Sometimes, the most shared videos are the ones that give viewers something useful, whether it’s a new perspective, a tip, or a solution to a problem.
People share what makes them look good, feel good, or laugh out loud, so always keep that in mind when crafting your content.
3. Make it “Save-Worthy”
If someone saves your video, that’s a huge signal that they found it valuable. Creating save-worthy content means offering something that your audience will want to come back to later—whether it’s for inspiration, advice, or entertainment.
Here are some ideas to make your content more saveable:
- Tutorials and how-tos: Videos that teach something useful are often saved for future reference.
- Lists and recommendations: Sharing resources like “Top 5 ways to improve your marketing strategy” or “Best tools for video production” encourages saves.
- Motivational content: Uplifting or motivational videos can inspire viewers to save and revisit them when they need a boost.
When you give your audience something they’ll want to reference later, you increase the chances they’ll hit that save button.
4. Comments Matter: Stir Up Conversations (Or Even Arguments)
Encouraging viewers to comment on your video is a fantastic way to boost its visibility. Algorithms love engagement, and the more comments a video gets, the more likely it is to be shown to a wider audience. But getting people to comment can be tricky. You need to nudge them in the right direction.
- Ask for their opinion: Frame your video with a question that requires them to weigh in. For instance, “What’s the best video marketing strategy? Let us know below!”
- Create a challenge or debate: Healthy debates and even playful arguments can lead to a flood of comments. Make a bold statement, and encourage people to share their opposing viewpoints.
- Call to action: A simple “Drop a comment if you agree!” or “Tag a friend who needs to see this!” at the end of your video can go a long way.
Bonus points if you can create content that sparks a bit of controversy (in a respectful way, of course). When people start arguing in the comments, the engagement numbers can skyrocket!
5. Turn Views into Follows
Ultimately, the success of your video marketing strategy isn’t just about views—it’s about turning those views into follows. Getting someone to follow your page after watching a video is a clear indicator that your content resonated with them, and they want to see more.
Here’s how you can convert viewers into followers:
- Consistency is key: When viewers know that more great content is on the way, they’re more likely to hit the follow button. Create a series, and tease upcoming episodes to keep them coming back.
- Directly ask: Sometimes, all it takes is a friendly reminder: “If you loved this video, follow us for more awesome content every week!”
- Exclusive content: Promise followers access to exclusive content, behind-the-scenes footage, or sneak peeks. People love feeling like they’re getting something special.
Remember, the real magic happens when people not only watch but also want to stick around for everything else you have to offer.
Creating viral content isn’t an exact science, but by focusing on engagement—whether through watch time, shares, saves, comments, or follows—you significantly increase your chances. At Popart Films, we know how to craft videos that not only look great but drive real results by connecting with audiences on a deeper level.
Ready to make a video that can go viral? Let’s chat. Your next big hit could be just a few clicks away!
