top of page
Jan 27

10 tips to go viral on social media

Want to maximize your reach? Here's how. 👇👇👇

What makes a post go viral on social media? Is it luck? Sorcery?


We know a viral post when we see it. It's rapidly shared by many HCPs, with hundreds of likes, reposts and replies in a short amount of time.


While it doesn't take luck or sorcery, it does take consistency and hard work.


Here are 10 tips to help your posts go viral. Let's dive in!


1. Share a patient case

A good story can share medical information in a way that's engaging and memorable.


Stories about a patient case can influence opinions and change attitudes. Stories that are moving can help motivate your targets.



Looking for a patient case? Check out Medical.watch trending topics.


2. Write consistently 

The more often you post, the more likely your followers will see (and repost) your content. Try to post 3-5 times per week. More is better. 

Need ideas? Try using ChatGPT to write your posts.


For example, you could enter these instructions in ChatGPT: "Write a scientific post for Twitter/X on emerging biomarkers in NSCLC. Include appropriate emojis, hashtags and links."

Say goodbye to writer's block. 🙂

3. Choose a timely topic

On #MedTwitter, HCPs love to discuss the latest trending topics. Examples include new biomarkers, diagnostics, trials and more.

Use these topics to create timely content that activates and engages your HCPs.


For more, see our post on How marketers use Medical.watch.


4. Follow up on a viral trend

One idea is to follow a trend that's already viral. For example, you could follow up on an image, video or meme that's been widely shared over time.


Here's an example:



Silly? Absolutely, but food for thought!


5. Post at the right time

In order to go viral, your followers need to see your posts. This means you need to post when your followers are online and active.


"50% of physicians use social media during work hours for professional reasons." – Sermo

Use a social media management tool like Meltwater or Sprout Social to time your posts for when your followers are active.


6. Share images and video

Get creative with your posts by including visuals like images, videos or infographics. If you're feeling brave, try a meme.


This can help you showcase interesting data and differentiate your brand.

Remember, HCPs love visuals. If you want your content seen by a wide audience, make sure to include visuals. ❤️



7. Include data and numbers

Want to grab attention with your headline? Consider adding data or numbers to make your posts meaningful for your targets.

When writing numbers, use numerals ("ORR 53%") which are easier to read. "ORR fifty-three percent" is just wrong. Avoid at all costs.


If you have new or practice-changing data, make sure to include numbers in your headline.


8. Don't forget to post threads

No, this is not a reference to Facebook's stodgy Twitter clone.

On Twitter/X, a thread is a series of tweets that are connected to each other, like chapters in a book. Here's an example from #TumorBoardTuesday:



By creating a thread and adding replies along the way, you can create an engaging storyline that is more likely to engage your HCPs.



9. Ask your followers for reposts

Want followers to repost your content? Just ask nicely. Be humble and use phrases like "please repost" without shame. 

Asking for reposts is a surefire way of engaging your followers to help you reach your goals. 🎯



10. Collaborate with DOLs

Want to really maximize your reach? Get a digital opinion leader to repost your content. 


Just keep in mind that DOLs are more likely to repost content from a person (such as your Chief Medical Officer or SVP Clinical Development) than a company.


Don't let that stop you. Let's go!


For more suggestions, see our post on How to maximize your ROI with DOLs.


 

Get social media insights for your brand. Sign up for Medical.watch. 🙂


What we're reading


bottom of page