In the age of social media dominating the media market, video is not just "entertainment content" but also a golden key to building brands and boosting sales. In particular, viral advertising videos, with their ability to spread rapidly and create a community effect, are becoming highly sought-after by all brands, businesses, and content creators.
So what's the formula for creating a viral video ad that resonates with viewers and encourages them to share? Here are 10 ideas you can apply to your video advertising campaign.
Behind the Scenes Video
Today's viewers aren't just interested in the final product; they're also curious about what goes on behind the scenes. An authentic, humorous, or emotional behind-the-scenes video can help a brand feel more "human.".
For example, behind-the-scenes footage of a lookbook photoshoot, behind-the-scenes videos of the grand opening, or the process of preparing a new product.
Tip:
- Use vertical, raw footage; the more authentic, the better.
- Optimize your captions by including questions like, "Guess what happens next?" to increase engagement.
Challenge Video
From the "Ice Bucket Challenge" to the "Don't Rush Challenge," social media challenges always have the potential to spread quickly if they are fun, simple, and evoke positive emotions.
For example: Cosmetic brands create makeup transformation challenges that require users to do a makeup makeover in 15 seconds, or fast-food chains challenge users to create their own "super spicy" versions of dishes.
Tip:
- Use unique hashtags to follow and spread the word.
- Incorporate challenges into seasonal campaigns or special events.
User-Generated Videos (UGC)
Videos created by customers themselves always have a high degree of authenticity, and when shared by brands, they create a feeling of closeness, like a friend recommending them.
For example: Users record videos of product unboxing, honest reviews, or simply capture moments of using the product in their own way.
Tip:
- Create incentives (rewards, vouchers) to encourage viewers to submit videos.
- Ensure that the UGC is in the correct format and quality for the platform you are using.
Inspirational Storytelling Video
An advertising video can go viral if it resonates with viewers' emotions, even if it's only 60 seconds long. Stories of resilience, love, and ambition, told in a coherent and authentic way, can spread far beyond expectations.
For example: Nike's "Dream Crazier" celebrates female athletes who dare to overcome prejudice, while Dove's "Real Beauty" spreads a message of self-love.
Tip:
- Begin with a moment that sparks curiosity or creates an emotional climax.
- It concludes with a concise and profound brand message.
Creative video reviews and testimonials.
Product reviews are no longer just "one person sitting and talking." Innovative brands are turning reviews into stories, animations, or even fun, highly entertaining videos.
For example: A coffee shop where customers can leave reviews directly through… poetry, or a cosmetics company creating a scene where the product “communicates” with the user.
Tip:
- Hiring Western models as KOLs or micro-influencers increases appeal and credibility.
- Optimize video length to under 45 seconds for platforms like TikTok or Instagram Reels.
Video tutorial (How-to / Tutorial)
If you sell a product that can be used in many different ways, this is a format you can't ignore. Viewers love short, visual, and easy-to-apply videos.
For example:
- Here are 5 ways to style a blazer.
- Instructions on the correct order to use serums in your skincare routine.
- How to preserve fresh flowers for 3 days using simple tips.
Tip:
- Create scenarios using a "before-after" or "mistake-correction" format.
- Optimize captions for search keywords (on-page SEO).
Video interviews (Micro-interviews)
A quick, friendly Q&A session can help viewers experience the brand from a "real-life" perspective.
For example:
- Ask the staff: "What is your favorite dish on the menu?"“
- Ask the customer: "What was your first impression of this product?"“
Tip:
- Keep the pace fast, don't ramble on.
- Add subtitles to suit viewers who are browsing without sound.
Mini-series video
If you have content longer than 1 minute, you should consider breaking it down into a series of videos. When well-written, viewers will be curious to see what comes next, creating a continuous interactive effect.
For example:
- The story of the product development journey is divided into 5 episodes.
- The "7-Day Green Living Challenge with Product A" series.
Tip:
- Each episode has its own message, but they are interconnected as a whole.
- Place a "cliffhanger" at the end of each video to keep viewers engaged.
Livestream
Nothing creates a sense of instant connection like livestreaming. You can use this tool to launch products, chat with customers, or create fun, short game shows.
For example:
- Livestream "unboxing" new products with KOLs.
- Answer customer questions directly and provide immediate feedback.
Tip:
- Consider hiring foreign models to create a fresh and professional experience for viewers.
- Prepare a script beforehand to avoid diluting the content.
- Incorporate minigames to keep viewers engaged for longer.
Trending or parody videos
Following trends can help your videos get millions of views if you quickly grasp them, adapt them cleverly, and make them suitable for your brand.
For example:
- The TikTok music transformation trend, combined with beauty product styling.
- Recreating a famous advertisement in a humorous style.
Tip:
- Ensure the content isn't too "nonsense" while still maintaining brand value.
- Post your video within 24–48 hours of the trend starting to avoid missing out.
Viral behavior is not accidental; it requires strategy.
Viral videos don't necessarily have to be expensive or technically sophisticated. What's important is a creative idea, a clear understanding of the target audience, and the ability to tell a story that people can't help but share.
Whether you're a startup, a large brand, or an individual creator, start with a few ideas from the list above, test their response, and refine them gradually. Good luck!
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