I came across this great Infographic today from ProBlogger.com that explains the possible scenarios that will cause content to go viral. According to them, whatever makes a piece of content go viral is mysterious, but also follows certain patterns.
First of all, to say something has “gone viral” simply means that it is well received, widely shared and has attained widespread attention. Remember the baby dancing to Beyonce on YouTube? This is just one of many examples of content that has gone viral – some on purpose, but most often accidentally.
While the Infographic below explains itself, of particular notice I wanted to point out the reasons why content may go viral. Here they are in no particular order.
- It’s absolutely hilarious
- It is incredible or unbelievable (controversy)
- It is deeply emotional
- It agrees with our worldview
- It makes us stop and think
- It isn’t covered by mainstream media
- It will make someone smile
- It is dramatic
- It is embarrassing
- It is provactive (but SFW)
[Click image for full size version]
David Wallace, co-founder and CEO of SearchRank, is a recognized expert in the industry of search and social media marketing. Since 1997, David has been involved in developing successful search engine and social media marketing campaigns for large and small businesses.
