What Does it Take to Create a Viral Ad

The best way to learn about what it takes to create a viral video ad for your brand is to watch those that have been most successful.

1. Dove : Real Beauty Sketches | You’re more beautiful than you think

If you look at Dove’s competitors, on average their youtube videos have only 600 views each. This Dove video has over 60 million views. It’s because they aren’t talking about Dove – no one cares about watching a video about Dove. The video is about a topic that resonates with people – self esteem issues.

2. Always #LikeAGirl

This video proves that you don’t need a fancy backdrop, action scenes or celebrities to go viral. A simple message that people care about is enough to get 60 million views.

3. Pepsi: The Friend Finder

Poking fun at a situation many people have found themselves in and using a cool new gadget make for a great viral ad.

4. Dumb Ways to Die

This Australian public service announcement uses comedy, repetition and real talk to get its message across. It’s been viewed over 100 million times, but more importantly, it reduced the number of accidents by 30%!

5. Shakira & Activia

Obviously, if you can get Shakira to be in your video you have a good shot at going viral.

6. DollarShaveClub.com – Our Blades Are F***ing Great

This video launched DollarShaveClub.com – after posting this video within 48 hours the company got it’s first 12,000 customer. Now, they have raised over $150 million from investors and giving large companies like Gillete a run for their money.

7. Thai Life Insurance: “Unsung Hero”

A compelling story, that touches people and teaches a great lesson can do exceptionally well on social media. This video has over 25 million views.

8. Google Search: Reunion

If you can touch on geopolitical conflict in a way that can unite both sides you are sure to get a lot of attention.