When it comes to going viral, there’s a certain X factor that remains unknown.
Sometimes, it seems that going viral isn’t something that one so much achieves as inadvertently accomplishes. It’s as if, suddenly, it’s happened to you! Even more confusing is that, over the years, the definition of “going viral” has included earning a million hits to generating noteworthy buzz.
Today, going viral has become even harder, and there’s no permanent definition as to what it means. Although there’s an unpredictability to viral videos, there’s always a heavy dose of hard work and application required.
Launching your own video efforts can feel like a herculean task, especially if you feel overwhelmed by everything else that is out there. Seeing the amazing responses others receive can make tackling your own videos feel daunting. Additionally, you may find you measure your video success differently for your niche than other video-makers. So instead of looking at viral videos as something to copy or repeat, look behind the creativity and tenacity for motivation.
Let these video pros and their stories inspire you. What stories will you tell? What will you make the markers of your success?
“Viral videos aren’t just about being funny. They’re about identity creation. You send the video to your friends to say something about yourself. You’re saying, ‘I get this. Do you get it?’”
Ricky Van Veen, co-founder of CollegeHumor and current head of global creative strategy with Facebook in New York magazine
“It’s very easy to make a viral video, but longevity and consistency, that’s hard.”
Michelle Phan, YouTuber and makeup entrepreneur in Vox
“The number one question I’m asked as a YouTuber every day is, ‘How can I get my videos out there; how can I make my videos go viral?’”
Todrick Hall, entertainer and YouTube personality, in Screener for The Daily Dot
“When I gave a talk at TEDx, I thought that if I did a good job, the video might go viral. But…it has 140,000 views while Colin Powell’s (who spoke at the same event) has only 2,700.”
Cameron Russell, model and activist, on the TEDBlog
“We live in an age where people are becoming more aware of their own creativity and their own interest in visual expression and sharing of their experiences.”
Nick Woodman, founder and CEO of GoPro, to Mashable
