The Ultimate Skill for 2024: How to Go Viral and Build a Magnetic Brand

In the digital age, attention is the currency of success. Whether you’re a business owner, brand builder, or content creator, knowing how to capti

In the digital age, attention is the currency of success. Whether you’re a business owner, brand builder, or content creator, knowing how to captivate multitudes can open doors you never imagined. The ability to go viral isn’t just about views; it’s about strategically amplifying your message to reach the right people and drive meaningful results.

To unpack the science of virality, I sat down with the master himself, Brendon Kane, a two-time bestselling author and renowned expert on creating viral content. From understanding algorithms to leveraging formats that work, Brendon shares actionable insights to help you master the art of going viral in 2024.

What Does It Mean to Go Viral?

Virality Defined
Going viral isn’t about chasing random millions of views—it’s about amplifying your core message to your target audience in a way that achieves your business goals. As Brendon puts it:

“Virality isn’t a million views for the sake of it. It’s about taking your core subject matter and making it resonate at scale.”

In practical terms, virality is about context. Every niche has the potential to go viral, from real estate and finance to nutrition and even taxes. The key is delivering your message in a way that aligns with your audience’s needs and interests.

Why Virality Matters for Business
Virality isn’t limited to flashy entertainment or gimmicks. For business owners, it’s a strategy to expand reach, build credibility, and ultimately drive scalable commerce. Brendon points out:

“You don’t need a million views to succeed. Sometimes, tens of thousands of the right views can transform your business.”

Breaking Down the Science of Virality

The Algorithm is Your Partner, Not Your Enemy
Social media algorithms prioritize content that keeps users engaged. They measure two key metrics:

Stopping the Scroll: Does your content grab attention in the first 3 seconds?
Holding Attention: Do viewers stay engaged throughout the video?

Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube thrive on ad revenue, which is fueled by keeping users on the platform. The better your content performs in these two areas, the more the algorithm will reward you with organic reach.

The Power of Context Over Content
According to Brendon, most people misunderstand what’s holding their content back. It’s not the message; it’s the way it’s presented. The right pacing, tone, visuals, and hooks can make all the difference.

Proven Formats to Go Viral

Brendon’s research has identified 220 distinct content formats, with 10,000 hours of research dedicated to analyzing what works. Here are a few beginner and advanced formats to try in 2024:

Beginner-Friendly Formats

Man on the Street
- Example: Approaching strangers with intriguing questions or challenges.
- Why It Works: The unpredictability and relatability of the interactions keep viewers hooked.
- Success Story: The “School of Hard Knocks” channel amassed millions of views using this format.
Two Characters, One Lightbulb
- Example: Playing both the novice and expert to debunk myths or explain concepts.
- Why It Works: Engaging storytelling with a clear purpose.
- Niche Uses: Finance (Mark Tilbury), law (Erica Kohlberg).
Walking Listicles
- Example: Sharing tips or advice while walking and talking directly into the camera.
- Why It Works: Simple, conversational, and visually dynamic.

Hollywood’s Elite Pay This Doctor $25,000 to Unlock Their Next-Level Success!

Advanced Formats

Visual Metaphor
- Example: Using props to explain complex topics, like PTSD or financial planning.
- Why It Works: Makes abstract ideas tangible and memorable.
- Pro Example: Dr. Julie Smith’s mental health content.
Explainer Videos
- Example: In-depth, narrative-driven pieces breaking down a topic over 10-15 minutes.
- Why It Works: Offers high-value insights and keeps viewers engaged for longer.
- Pro Example: Veritasium’s “Why Are There 99 Billion Black Balls in This Reservoir?”
“Is It Worth It?” Reviews
- Example: Deconstructing products or services to assess their true value.
- Why It Works: Combines authority and curiosity to engage viewers.
- Success Story: A leather craftsman gained 2.5 million followers by reviewing luxury goods.

Real-Life Case Study: The Rolls-Royce Viral Video

Brendon dissected the success of a viral video where entrepreneur Myron Golden was interviewed in a “man on the street” format. The video amassed over 68 million views on Instagram in just 10 days. Here’s why:

Strong Hook: The opening question, “Is this your Rolls-Royce?” stopped viewers in their tracks.
Relatability: Myron’s candid response about being broke twice made him relatable to the audience.
Tangible Advice: Practical business tips turned viewers into engaged learners.

“The audience doesn’t just want to watch—they want to connect, relate, and learn something valuable.”

Building a Viral-Ready Mindset

1. Focus on Consistency, Not Perfection
Creating viral content is a skill that improves with practice. Myron Golden’s 10-year commitment to producing weekly YouTube videos is a testament to the power of consistency over immediate results.

2. Speak to One, Not Many
Social media is a one-to-one medium. Your audience isn’t a faceless crowd; it’s individuals watching on their own. Speak directly to them.

3. Learn from the Best
Don’t reinvent the wheel. Analyze successful content in your niche and adapt the context to your unique voice and message.

Key Takeaways

Virality is Strategic: It’s not about random numbers but amplifying your message to the right audience.
Master a Format: Choose one that resonates with your niche and perfect it.
Work with the Algorithm: Create content that grabs and holds attention.
Never Stop Learning: Study what works, experiment, and refine.

As Brendon reminds us:

“Virality is a skill, not luck. Anyone can learn it with the right tools and mindset.”

Final Thoughts

The ability to go viral is one of the most valuable skills to develop in 2024. It’s not just about fame—it’s about leveraging the science of attention to achieve your business and personal goals. Start small, experiment with proven formats, and let your authentic voice shine.