St. Patrick’s Day may be over, but let’s be real…you still need a little luck when it comes to getting noticed online. While some brands seem to magically go viral, the truth is that success in digital marketing isn’t about four-leaf clovers. It’s about strategy, timing, and understanding what makes people want to share.
So, how can you create your own luck factor and increase your chances of hitting it big online? Let’s break it down.
- Make It Emotional
People share content that makes them feel something. Whether it’s joy, excitement, nostalgia, or inspiration, tapping into emotions can boost engagement.
– Share a heartwarming customer story
– Create a before-and-after transformation using your product or service
– Post a relatable, funny meme or trend that fits your brand’s personality
Example: The “Random Acts of Kindness” trend is a great way to create shareable, feel-good content.
- Keep It Timely
Viral content often plays off what’s already trending. Whether it’s a popular meme, a cultural moment, or a major event, your brand can ride the wave to maximize reach.
– Use trending hashtags, but only if they truly fit your brand
– Put your spin on popular TikTok or Reel trends
– Tie your content to seasonal events, like St. Patrick’s Day
Example: When Spotify Wrapped drops every December, brands in all industries find creative ways to use the trend.
- Make It Easy to Share
The easier it is to share, the more likely people will do it.
– Create short videos, GIFs, or memes
– Use short, catchy captions that grab attention
– Add polls, quizzes, or interactive content to encourage participation
Example: Posts that include “Tag a friend who needs this” often generate high engagement and shares.
- Use Humor
People love to laugh, and funny content spreads quickly. Even if you’re in a serious industry, there’s always room for lighthearted, relatable content.
– Create brand-relevant memes
– Use self-deprecating humor
– Post playful, relatable moments your audience will connect with
Example: Duolingo’s TikTok videos featuring its green owl mascot have made the brand a social media favorite.
- Encourage User-Generated Content
People trust content from real people more than brands. Getting your audience involved builds credibility and engagement.
– Run a photo or video challenge
– Ask customers to share their experiences using your product
– Feature customer testimonials in creative ways
Example: Starbucks’ Red Cup Contest encouraged users to post photos of their holiday drinks, creating a viral marketing moment.
- Create FOMO
If people feel like they need to jump in, they will.
– Launch limited-time offers or challenges
– Use countdowns to create urgency
– Drop exclusive behind-the-scenes content
Example: Brands that use messaging like “Only X spots left” often see higher conversions because no one wants to miss out.
Final Thoughts
St. Patrick’s Day may be behind us, but your brand still needs a little luck to stand out in the crowded digital world. The good news is that you don’t need a pot of gold, just the right strategy. By creating engaging, shareable, and emotional content, you can stack the odds in your favor and keep your audience coming back for more.