67. What happens when you go viral on social media? A Guide for Podcasters

In social media, going viral can be both a dream and a nightmare, depending on your perspective. Some crave fame and attention, while others fear the potential negative repercussions that come with sudden stardom. But what does it really mean to go viral, and how can you navigate the complexities and benefits for your podcast that come with it?

Social Media Post virality

Last week, an unexpected turn of events led to one of my posts on Instagram going viral.

As a seasoned podcaster and content creator, I found myself at the epicenter of a whirlwind of engagement and attention. In this episode, I'll delve into the details of what led to it, how it unfolded, and the insights gained from this unique experience that so many wonder about.

Understanding Virality

When content goes viral, a myriad of thoughts and questions flood one's mind.

Will it last?

Will it boost my podcast's visibility?

These are just some of the queries that arise. I'll share my journey of navigating through the sudden surge in views, likes, and the inevitable haters that come with viral content.

The Viral Phenomenon: Intentional vs. Unintentional

Virality can strike in two main ways: intentionally, where content is crafted with the hope of going viral, and unintentionally, where it happens by surprise. Both have their pros and cons: intentional virality often involves meticulous planning and strategy, while unintentional virality can be a wild card, bringing unexpected attention and a diverse audience.

Understanding the Algorithm

The key to unlocking the potential of social media lies in understanding how algorithms work. These complex systems test content with a subset of your audience and, depending on engagement, may push it to a wider audience. It's a dance with data, and by analyzing audience behavior and leveraging analytics, you can significantly boost your content's visibility.

The haters and troll: a necessary evil?

Addressing haters and trolls is an inevitable aspect of online visibility. I'll delve into strategies for handling negative comments, turning criticism into opportunities, and maintaining authenticity in the face of online scrutiny. Embracing the mantra of "haters gonna hate" and focusing on engaging with genuine followers are essential in navigating through online backlash.

Navigating the Aftermath of a Viral Post

Going viral isn't just about the numbers; it's about engagement and relevance. A clear and accessible profile is crucial for converting viral viewers into loyal listeners. While virality can bring in a diverse crowd, it's important to focus on strategies that resonate with your core audience to maintain a consistent listener base. So whenever you’re finding yourself in a viral post, it’s important to execute tasks that will bring your content back into your ideal audience’s feeds.

Conclusion:

Going viral online can be a double-edged sword that presents both opportunities and challenges. Through my journey of accidental virality, I learned valuable lessons, connected with diverse audiences, and leveraged expertise to navigate through the complexities of online visibility. I invite you to embrace the unpredictability of the digital realm and keep moving forward in your content creation journey.

Timestamps:

  • 00:00 The Viral Phenomenon: A Personal Journey

  • 01:55 Decoding Social Media Algorithms

  • 07:16 Understanding Virality: Types and Impacts

  • 13:14 Navigating Viral Success and Its Challenges

  • 15:30 Analyzing a Viral Post: A Case Study

  • 29:25 The Aftermath of Going Viral

  • 32:50 Final Thoughts and Invitations


    Episodes referenced in the show:

Resources mentioned in the episode:

💸 Affiliate links:

Captivate.fm (Best Podcast Hosting platform)- https://bit.ly/3ZFbvjQ

Riverside.fm (Record high-quality interviews)- https://bit.ly/46C7A9E

Custom Neon (Neon sign) - 10% OFF https://bit.ly/48G5Aiq use code THEPODCASTSPACE10 

Previous
Previous

68. 10 Key Strategies To Consider to WIN Podcast Awards and Pitches

Next
Next

66. Podcast Interviews: 5 key elements most hosts get wrong