How to make your events go viral? Give advice on how to create events that people want to share on social media.
In today’s digital age, hosting a successful event isn’t just about delivering a memorable experience to those attending—it’s about amplifying that experience beyond the event space through social media. Experiential marketing events, when designed thoughtfully, have the power to spark viral moments, capturing the attention of not only attendees but also their wider online networks.
But how do you create events that people can’t resist sharing on Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn? Below are some expert tips on making your experiential marketing events go viral.
1. Design Immersive and Unique Experiences
One of the most important factors that drive social sharing is the “wow” factor. To encourage attendees to pull out their phones and start snapping photos or recording videos, your event needs to provide something truly unique.
Tips:
• Interactive Elements: Incorporate interactive experiences that guests will want to participate in, like immersive installations or engaging product demos.
• Eye-Catching Visuals: Design Instagram-worthy spaces, such as creative photo walls, branded setups, or artistic backdrops.
• Unforgettable Surprises: Introduce an unexpected moment or surprise—whether it’s a special guest, an exclusive product reveal, or an engaging performance.
2. Incorporate Shareable Moments
Make it easy for attendees to share their experience by creating moments that are tailor-made for social media. This could be anything from a branded hashtag to a unique giveaway.
Tips:
• Branded Hashtag: Create a catchy, memorable hashtag specific to the event. Make sure it’s prominently displayed and easy to use.
• Selfie Stations and Photo Booths: Set up designated selfie stations or photo booths with branded props and backgrounds.
• Encourage User-Generated Content: Offer incentives like prizes for the best photo, or encourage attendees to share their experiences on Instagram Stories by tagging your brand.
3. Leverage Influencers and Key Attendees
If you want to extend your event’s reach quickly, invite social media influencers and key attendees with large followings. Influencers have the ability to amplify your event and spark conversations among their audiences.
Tips:
• Select Relevant Influencers: Work with influencers whose followers align with your brand’s target audience. Ensure they are excited about the experience and ready to post organically.
• Offer Exclusive Content: Provide influencers with exclusive access to content or areas of the event that will entice their followers to engage with and share their posts.
4. Integrate Live Streaming and Real-Time Sharing
Broadcast your event live through platforms like Instagram Live or Facebook Live, allowing people who couldn’t attend to experience the event in real time. It also encourages viewers to engage, comment, and share the stream.
Tips:
• Behind-the-Scenes Content: Share behind-the-scenes moments before the event starts to build anticipation.
• Engage with Your Audience: During live streaming, respond to comments and questions to make the audience feel connected to the experience, even from a distance.
5. Offer Shareable Swag and Experiences
People love to share experiences, but they also love sharing cool, branded swag. Give your attendees something that will not only remind them of the event but also prompt them to post about it online.
Tips:
• Exclusive, Branded Merchandise: Offer limited-edition products or merchandise that attendees can’t wait to show off on social media.
• Creative Giveaways: Instead of typical event swag, offer personalized or innovative items that spark conversation, like custom products or QR codes that unlock digital content.
6. Create FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)
FOMO is one of the most powerful motivators when it comes to social sharing. Attendees who feel like they’re experiencing something special or exclusive are more likely to share it online, while those watching from the sidelines will want to attend the next event.
Tips:
• Limited Access or VIP Perks: Create exclusive areas or experiences at your event that generate envy among followers, making them wish they were there.
• Teasers and Pre-Event Buzz: Build hype before the event through sneak peeks or influencer shoutouts to generate excitement and anticipation.
7. Capture Content for Post-Event Sharing
The buzz around your event doesn’t have to end once the last guest leaves. Share content from the event afterward to keep the momentum going, whether it’s videos, testimonials, or behind-the-scenes footage.
Tips:
• Professional Recap Videos: Create a highlights reel showcasing the best moments of the event, edited in a way that tells a story. Share it across all platforms.
• Photo Galleries: Upload high-quality images from the event and encourage attendees to tag themselves or their friends.
Conclusion
Creating an event that goes viral is more than just luck—it’s about understanding what makes people want to share their experiences. By designing unique, immersive moments, encouraging user-generated content, leveraging influencers, and amplifying the event through live streaming and exclusive access, you can transform your experiential marketing events into powerful social media moments.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to host an event—it’s to create an experience that lives on through the screens and feeds of your attendees. Happy sharing!
Ready to create an event that goes viral? Contact us today to learn how we can help you design the ultimate experiential marketing experience that people can’t stop talking about.