If you’ve ever thought that viral videos are insignificant components of the Internet’s vast depths, you could be overlooking a powerful and influential force. It is important to learn why such videos go viral.

While an informative, carefully planned video with the potential of leaving a great impact on the world could get no views, a silly video taken on a whim could go viral immediately. So why do these seemingly trivial videos make it viral? Often enough, videos are watched during free time, when viewers are relaxing and simply seeking entertainment. The majority of viral videos gain the base for their popularity in the first 24 hours, making it even more difficult to accurately predict a popular video upon upload.

youtube-generationThe most important aspect to remember about these videos is that they become viral because of shares, not because of views. For individuals and businesses that believe following a rigid formula will guarantee a viral video, disappointment is waiting! Even with a clever idea and witty, admirable delivery, most videos still will not gain the popularity of a viral video. There are, however, guidelines one can follow to produce the elements that make a viral video. While these guidelines don’t guarantee that your video will go viral, they’re a good place to start.

charlie-bit-my-fingerThe Element of Emotion
People like to connect using emotions, so sharing a video with a friend provides a bonding experience. Viral videos do not have to display all positive emotions, but basic emotions that many can empathize with. For example, in the video Charlie bit my finger-again!, you see a variety of emotions in just a short 55-second video. And, despite the fact that this video came out in 2007, it is still just as funny in 2014!

Video Length is Crucial
You probably have noticed that the majority of viral videos are less than 3 minutes long. Shorter videos typically get more views—ultimately creating more shares. The shorter the video, the more likely it will be watched, because it’s difficult for people to find time in their busy schedules to sit down and watch a video.

Choose a Title that Caters to Your Audience
When creating a title for your video, try to think of how it would make you feel as a viewer. Would the title catch your attention and entice you to click the video, or would you pass right by it? Be sure it describes the video enough by using keywords to pique a viewer’s interest, without giving too much away!

Accessibility
If it is difficult for viewers to find your content, your video will not go viral. Posting on well-known social media sites such as Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter is a great place to start. Be sure to include tags and keywords so there are more opportunities for your video to circulate and gain shares. And, check your privacy settings on media where the video is posted to be sure the content is accessible for viewers outside your circle of friends or followers.

Have a Marketing Plan
In case your video does take off, it is crucial to have a marketing plan up your sleeve. It is much easier to have a plan in place rather than having to create one under pressure. Because the time and effort is already put forth in your video and its content, leaving its future success up to chance as a result of poor planning would be unfortunate.

Though following these guidelines cannot guarantee a viral video, they do help create better conditions for one. Despite your best efforts, luck plays a large role in the expansion of such videos.

If at first you don’t succeed, try to review past obstacles and brainstorm alternate strategies to achieve the video you hoped for. Prepare for your video to go viral by making your business look its best. Or, simply contact Sabre and let’s discuss how we can maximize your online footprint and set the conditions for getting your video to go viral.