8 Secrets To Viral Videos

1. "Viral" Status Isn't Always What It Seems.

This might be a wake up call for some of you, but there are companies out there who get paid to drive traffic to certain videos. The more traffic they drive, the more "viral" that video becomes - it's not always a natural process.

2. Viral Videos Are Short

15 to 30 seconds is all it takes to grab the attention of your audience, and leave them wanting more.

3. Viral Videos Don't Blatantly Advertise

It's a tough crowd out there that you're trying to get ahold of. You want to spread awareness, which in turn will lead to sales. Don't sell them if you want your video to go viral.

4. Viral Videos Are Shocking

Bigfoot, UFO's, Nessie, An Honest Politician... something that's going to make your audience dig deeper into who or what is behind the video. Instill a sense of wonder into your audience.

5. Viral Videos Employ "Headlines"

A headline is nothing more than something that gets our attention. "Did you get that on camera?" or "I can't believe this is happening!" are some pretty common examples - use your creativity here, the more "ear catching" the better.

6. Viral Videos Understand That Sex Sells

You can always take a page from the old playbook. Hire some attractive people and use them in the video. It works wonders.

7. Viral Videos End With A URL

If you're not going to directly benefit from the video, don't waste your time. End on with a black screen and your website address right in the middle of it so people know where to go for more information. Give them something to look forward to.

8. Viral Videos Make People Talk

Years ago, a magician came out on national TV to reveal how some of the biggest magic tricks were done. People either loved the guy, or hated the guy, but people talked about the guy (and still do). Find some magic in your business to reveal to the world and get people talking.