In the movie Rounders, Matt Damon's character, a high-stakes poker player, says, "You can't lose what you don't put in the middle...but you can't win much, either." It's a simple gambling concept: the more you risk, the more you stand to win...or lose. The risk part is up to you.
When it comes to content and social media, your chances of creating viral content aren’t very good. We’re talking the same as hitting the jackpot on a slot machine or making a World Series of Poker final table. But you know what? It’s possible. It could happen.
Although you’re unlikely to come up with the next “Old Spice Guy On A Horse” viral sensation, we want to increase your odds ever so slightly. That’s why we’ve focused our latest infographic on making your content as shareable as you possibly can so maybe – just maybe – you can hit the social media jackpot. Take these suggestions to heart, put it all on the line and who knows what could happen!
Rather than just talking, learn to teach and tell stories. Whatever you have to say will be more memorable to your audience if you tie it together in a meaningful way. Narratives are also much more likely to make an emotional connection with your customers (eliciting real feelings with your marketing is always a good thing). For a real life example of what we mean, check out one of Dove's Real Beauty campaign videos.
Whether it's a prank, a hush-hush promotional release or a secret, intimate show from a huge rock band, people love surprises. If you were one of 20 random people to receive a free iPod, would you not rave about Apple forever? People love surprises, period. Take a look at Pepsi's 'Test Drive' ads for a real world viral surprise.
People will say they share content to provide value at all costs, but part of this reasoning is that they also look good for being valuable. The fact is people share content to reinforce that they're funny, smart, witty, or whatever adjective they like to use to describe themselves. We all do it, so make sure you try and create content that will make people proud to share it! TED talks are a perfect example because, you know, you're definitely as enlightened as the person giving the talk as long as you share it!
You might think this one goes without saying, but you'd be wrong. Making sure content is super easy to share is still something that many blogs overlook. Allowing comments (and moderating the discussion) is another way to add value to your stuff. Always make everything on your site as easy as it can possibly be!
So there you have it, that's our take on giving yourself the best shot to win the social media jackpot. Good luck, gamblers! Oh and here's the full infographic:
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