So, your reel went viral, and that’s awesome. But guess what? The adventure doesn’t stop there; it’s just getting started. What’s the next move? How do you keep the hype alive? These are the real head-scratchers we’re diving into. Let’s navigate the post-viral terrain together, dishing out insights and game plans to not just ride the wave but to sail through the uncharted waters that come after.
Many people ask, “I have a reel going viral, how long should I wait before posting again?”
The answer is, you don’t need to wait at all. Reels can go viral long after you post them and can stay viral even when you’re posting new content.
Recreate the viral reel in similar ways since people will be visiting your page due to that reel. They typically explore your page because they want more content of that type, so focus on creating similar reels. This will significantly boost your reach and followers over time.
After a video goes viral, it’s good to make a few individual posts and share story content to give your new audience a sense of who you are and what your profile can offer them.
My reel went viral – now what? 8 best practices
1. Engage Promptly
Consider establishing set times for engagement to ensure consistency. Utilize Instagram’s quick replies for frequently asked questions or comments. This not only streamlines your responses but also demonstrates a proactive approach to audience interaction.
Responding promptly goes beyond mere acknowledgment; it’s a way to express genuine appreciation for their interaction. It’s a chance to humanize your presence, turning viewers into engaged participants. This level of engagement not only solidifies your relationship with existing followers but also signals to the Instagram algorithm that your content is actively generating interest, further boosting its visibility.
2. Capitalize on Trends
Use tools like Instagram’s Explore page and Trending hashtags to stay informed about the latest trends. However, ensure that the trends you engage with align with your brand and resonate with your audience.
Trends are the heartbeat of social media. They offer a direct line to what captures audience attention. Incorporating these trends into your content not only showcases your awareness but also positions you as a creator who understands and resonates with current interests.
3. Diversify Content
Conduct audience polls to gauge interest in potential new content directions. Strike a balance between staying true to your core theme and exploring complementary topics that align with your brand.
While your viral reel may have thrust you into the spotlight for a specific niche, sustaining long-term engagement requires diversification. Introduce various facets of your personality, skills, or interests to prevent your profile from becoming one-dimensional. This diversity not only appeals to a broader audience but also maintains a sense of freshness and intrigue.
4. Collaborate and Cross-Promote
Approach collaborations with a clear idea of mutual benefit. Seek creators whose content complements yours, ensuring a seamless integration that enhances both profiles. Cross-promote strategically, aligning with each other’s strengths.
The aftermath of a viral reel presents an opportune moment to explore collaborations with fellow creators in your niche. Cross-promoting each other’s content is a symbiotic strategy that introduces your profile to new audiences while reinforcing your presence within the community. Collaborations can take various forms, from joint content creation to shared challenges, fostering a sense of camaraderie and expanding your reach.
5. Monitor Analytics
Amidst the whirlwind of virality, the strategic analysis of analytics becomes paramount. Delve into the data to understand the geographic locations of your new followers, peak engagement times, and the types of content that resonate the most. This data-driven approach empowers you to tailor your strategy for continued success.
Utilize Instagram Insights for a comprehensive view of your audience demographics and behavior. Experiment with A/B testing to understand what content variations perform best among your audience.
6. Foster Community
Building a community around your content transcends mere follower accumulation; it’s about creating a shared space where individuals with common interests can genuinely connect. Encourage discussions, seek input, and make your audience feel valued. A strong community not only enhances your brand but also contributes to long-term engagement and loyalty.
Host live Q&A sessions, polls, or exclusive content for your community. Actively participate in discussions, responding to comments and messages. Showcase user-generated content to foster a sense of inclusivity.
7. Plan Your Next Moves
The aftermath of a viral reel is the opportune moment to strategically plan your next moves. Whether it’s a series of related content, a product launch, or a collaboration, capitalize on the heightened visibility to set the stage for future successes. This forward-thinking approach ensures that your content remains dynamic and anticipates the evolving interests of your audience.
Conduct audience surveys or polls to gauge interest in potential future content directions. Align your future moves with the thematic elements that contributed to the virality of your initial reel.
8. Stay Authentic
Amid the newfound attention and possibilities, maintaining authenticity is non-negotiable. Authenticity is the magnetic force that initially drew people to your content, and it’s the foundation of a lasting connection. Consistently delivering content that aligns with your values, resonates with your audience, and reflects your genuine self is paramount for post-viral success.
Regularly revisit your content strategy to ensure alignment with your core values. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses to humanize your profile. Address challenges transparently, reinforcing the authenticity of your online persona.
Final words
If you ever find yourself contemplating the aftermath of your viral reel, wondering, “My reel went viral – now what?” Consider it the beginning of your Instagram journey. Promptly engage with your audience to deepen connections and boost ongoing visibility. Capitalize on emerging trends and diversify your content for sustained momentum. Collaborate to broaden your reach and use analytics for strategic planning. Foster a community, plan ahead, and stay authentic—making this viral moment a stepping stone to enduring success on Instagram.