Did you know that 60% of people are more likely to purchase a product after seeing it featured in a viral post on social media? From the unpredictable rise of fidget spinners to the global fascination with Pokemon Go, viral trends have a unique way of captivating the crowd and directing a whirlwind of attention. But how can these one-time internet crazes be converted into a long-time online business?
Jason Adler, a software engineer at Repocket, aptly puts it, “Viral trends are like the gold rush of the internet. Just like the 49ers, anyone equipped with the right tools and strategies can strike it big.” He offers expert insights and practical suggestions on strategically spotting and harnessing viral trends to build an online business.
The Importance of Early Detection
The digital landscape is an ever-evolving beast, with trends emerging and fading within days. Early detection is crucial. It means monitoring a variety of sources, from social media platforms like TikTok and Reddit to trend-forecasting tools such as Google Trends and Exploding Topics. These resources can unveil patterns and burgeoning interests that haven’t yet saturated the market.
Data from Hootsuite indicates that 85% of Gen Zers learn about new products through social media. This underscores the potential social platforms have in spotting early patterns that could evolve into full-blown trends.
Identifying Viral Trends
Viral trends are characterized by the rapid widespread of a topic or theme across the internet. Here are a few strategies to spot these elusive trendsetters:
- Monitor social media: Watch popular platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok for trends. Pay attention to hashtags, shares, likes, and comments.
- Subscribe to influential channels and accounts: Follow key influencers and niche-specific accounts. Their content often sets the trend.
- Leverage online tools: Use tools like Google Trends, BuzzSumo, or Social Mention to track trending keywords and topics across different platforms.
Maximizing Trends for Business Growth
Once a potential trend is in sight, the next step is to bring it into your business strategy. Here is how:
Quick adaptation
React quickly and adapt the trend to your business before it peaks. “The early bird catches the worm,” emphasizes Adler.
Create relevant content
Produce content that is aligned with the trend, as well as valuable and engaging to your target audience.
Promote actively
Leverage your social media accounts to share your trendy content. Partnerships with influencers can give you additional reach.
How to Translate Trends into Sustainable Business
Achieving overnight success from a viral trend is excellent, but the real challenge lies in sustaining this growth. Here’s how:
- Build a brand around the trend: Once you get attention, start building a brand narrative. Your brand story should go beyond just the trend.
- Establish a community: Engage your followers. Create a sense of loyalty and belongingness that sustains even when the trend fades away.
- Diversify your offerings: Avoid becoming a “one-hit-wonder” by adding related products or services that appeal to your target audience.
Adler mentions, “A trend doesn’t need to be short-term. Transform that once fleeting interest into a loyal customer base. Keep track of your market, listen to your audience, and adapt.“
To sum it all up, being able to spot and employ viral trends is a powerful skill that can drive aspiring online businesses to new heights. Yet, it’s essential to remember that trends come and go. Solid businesses are built on strong customer relationships, consistent brand messages, and quality product offerings. Carefully plan your steps and use trends as stepping stones to building a robust and sustainable business.
