Estimated to reach 1.2 billion users by 2029, YouTube is and will continue to be in the top 1% social media platforms.
Going viral on YouTube is essential if you want to start making a living just by posting videos.
In this guide, our team of expert content creators will teach you how to achieve that. We’ll share all of our secrets in a ~3 min. read!
Virality 101: How to Go Viral on YouTube
To go viral on YouTube, focus on creating attention-grabbing, shareable content that resonates with your target audience.
Optimize your videos for the YouTube algorithm, consistently upload high-quality content, and leverage social media and collaborations to expand your reach.
1. Create Attention-Grabbing Content
In the vast sea of YouTube content, standing out is crucial. Your content needs to capture viewers’ interest immediately and keep them engaged throughout.
- Focus on trending topics or unique angles
- Use eye-catching thumbnails and titles
- Hook viewers in the first 5-10 seconds
Keep learning: Best hooks for YouTube Shorts.
2. Optimize for the Algorithm
YouTube’s algorithm plays a significant role in determining video visibility. Understanding and working with it can significantly boost your chances of going viral.
Right now, DIY content is great right after posting:
- Use relevant tags, descriptions, and captions
- Encourage likes, comments, and subscriptions
- Create playlists to increase watch time
Keep learning: Everything about the Shorts algorithm.
3. Leverage Social Media
Your YouTube success isn’t limited to the platform itself. Utilize other social media channels to expand your reach and drive traffic to your videos.
- Share your videos across platforms
- Engage with your audience and other creators
- Participate in online communities related to your content
4. Collaborate with Other Creators
Collaboration can expose you to new audiences and create exciting content. It’s a win-win strategy that many successful YouTubers employ.
Community’s Thoughts: MrBeast made the best collab. video:
- Cross-promote content
- Participate in challenges or trends
5. Consistency is Key
Building a loyal audience requires regular content delivery. Consistency helps viewers know when to expect new content and builds anticipation.
- Maintain a regular upload schedule
- Develop a recognizable brand or style
6. Analyze and Adapt
Data-driven decisions can significantly improve your content strategy. Pay attention to what works and be willing to adjust your approach.
- Use YouTube Analytics to understand your audience
- Experiment with different types of content
- Learn from successful videos in your niche
7. Create Shareable Content
Viral content spreads because people want to share it. Focus on creating videos that viewers will feel compelled to share with others.
- Evoke strong emotions (humor, surprise, awe)
- Make content relatable or universally appealing
- Consider creating shorter, easily digestible videos
8. Timing Matters
When you post can be almost as important as what you post. Strategic timing can increase your initial views and engagement.
- Post when your audience is most active
- Capitalize on current events or trends quickly
Keep learning what are the best times to post on YouTube.
9. Invest in Quality
As your channel grows, so should the quality of your content. Continuous improvement can help retain viewers and attract new ones.
- Improve your video and audio quality over time
- Enhance your editing skills
10. Be Patient and Persistent
Success on YouTube rarely happens overnight. Consistency and perseverance are key to eventually achieving viral status.
Related Guide: 7 YouTube Shorts Ideas.
- Viral success often comes unexpectedly
- Focus on creating value for your audience consistently
Remember, there’s no guaranteed formula for going viral. Focus on creating quality content that resonates with your target audience, and be prepared to adapt and learn as you grow your channel.
Frequently Asked
1. How many views do you need to go viral on YouTube?
There’s no set number of views that defines “going viral” on YouTube, as it can vary based on context and niche. Generally, a video is considered viral when it rapidly gains millions of views in a short time frame, often spreading beyond its initial target audience.
2. How to go viral on YouTube on a phone?
To go viral on YouTube using your phone, focus on creating short, engaging vertical videos using mobile-friendly formats like YouTube Shorts. Utilize mobile editing apps, participate in trending challenges, and optimize your content for mobile viewing to increase your chances of viral success.
3. How many YouTube views in 24 hours is viral?
Typically, a video gaining 5-10 million views within 24 hours would be considered to have gone viral on YouTube Shorts.
The number of views considered “viral” in 24 hours can vary, but generally, it’s in the millions.
Thanks a lot for reading this,
David Ch
Head of the Editing Team at SendShort
