Vol. 6, Issue 8, Part E (2020)

Viral marketing refers to a technique in marketing a product or a service where users help in spreading the advertiser's message to other websites or the users create a scenario which can lead to multi-fold growth. Viral in literal sense means anything which spreads fast (across users). This term is symbolically used in context with the web or mobile domain. Viral marketing is described as a marketing strategy which inspires users to spread or share the message to other users which can lead to multi-fold growth. It could be a simple message on your smart phone related to a product which was recently launched, a news piece (example - India winning the world cup), or a YouTube video that individuals share with different users. There are various elements required for effective marketing strategy which can make viral. Firstly, product or services should be 'free' for all, and should have easy accessibility. By doing this the marketing team is able to get enough attention from users across the globe, although it might not lead to any profit. The next important element is the transferability part, which simple means that the message can be easily transferred or shared via email, WhatsApp, networking websites, etc. The message should be simple to understand and at the same time it should be short. The other element is that the message should be interesting and intelligently placed. Users should be able to identify with the message. If any influential person endorses your message or product on the website or on their social media or networking site, it can become viral.