Content Creation

How to Effectively Create Viral Sharebait

CopyPress

July 4, 2013 (Updated: February 2, 2023)

When it comes to content marketing, Sharebait is an essential piece of the puzzle, but creating viral content that spreads across the internet like wildfire is easier said than done. Viral content has the potential to reach a massive audience, taking whatever it is you’re promoting to another level. There is no tried and true way to do this, but there are several factors that can drastically improve the chances of your content being shared.

Conciseness

First and foremost, you want to make sure your content is readily distinguishable and easy to understand. Here are four things to look for when creating Sharebait:

1. Keep the message short and to the point. Try to make it as concise as possible without diminishing the message.
2. Supplement your articles by adding quality photos relevant to the content. Photos are quickly and easily distinguishable, and easily shared.
3. Titles also play a big role. Be sure to have a catchy title that catches the reader’s eye. The goal is to grab the reader’s attention within the first few seconds.
4. Use numbers and bullet points, just like the ones you’re reading now.

You have a short period of time called the viral cycle that is your key opportunity to make an impression on the reader and compel them to share your content.

Emotional Connections

Another big part of the equation has to do with emotions. Emotions help appraise and summarize and experience and then drive your actions. The stronger emotion a person feels when viewing your content (positive or negative), the more likely they will be compelled to share. These emotions can include awe, anger, fear, joy, etc.

Before creating your content, you’ll want to decide which of these emotions to play on and then tailor it to execute it perfectly. Though positive emotions have been shown to be more effective than negative, as long as it elicits a strong feeling, people will be likely to talk about it and share.

Value and Relevancy

The content you’re creating has to be relevant and new.  If you’re creating content that is not relevant or has already been done, it will not be shared. Make sure to bring something fresh and new to the table, providing up to date information.

The content also needs value. You want to provide content that leaves the reader feeling like they walked away with something they didn’t have before they viewed it. If you provide practical information that betters people’s lives, they will want to share that with others.

Sharing Made Easy

Last but not least, be sure to make sharing your content as user friendly as possible. Set up the proper sharing links to popular social media sites and including a good default title and text to make sharing as easy as one click. Another way to make content more shareable is to create content that reflects the sharer in a positive light. This kind of content makes the reader feel like they’re doing a good deed by spreading the message. Some examples would be volunteering or charity, which makes the reader feel altruistic for sharing.

Conclusion

So there you have it, you are now ready to go and create Sharebait that will reach and influence the masses. This can be very effective when trying to promote your business or campaign. Just be sure to understand your target audience and provide quality, emotionally valuable content to them. Do you have what it takes to go viral?

Sources:

• http://moz.com/blog/the-secret-recipe-for-viral-content-marketing-success
• http://socialtriggers.com/craft-contagious-content/

CopyPress

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