Here’s the expanded version:
BuzzSumo conducted an in-depth analysis of the top 10,000 most shared articles on the web to uncover the emotional triggers that drive people to share content widely. Their findings revealed fascinating insights into the types of emotions that inspire viral sharing:
- Awe (25%): The most dominant emotion, awe is linked to inspiring or astonishing content that leaves the audience with a sense of wonder and amazement. Think of breathtaking visuals, groundbreaking discoveries, or uplifting stories that shift perspectives.
- Laughter (21%): Humor plays a huge role in virality. People love to share content that makes them laugh, whether it’s memes, witty jokes, or funny videos. Shared laughter is a universal connector.
- Amusement (15%): Content that entertains, surprises, or delights is another significant driver of shares. This includes engaging stories, clever puns, or lighthearted moments.
- Joy (14%): Positive emotions like happiness and joy encourage people to share content that spreads smiles and uplifts others.
- Anger (6%): While anger isn’t a pleasant emotion, it can drive engagement when people feel strongly about an issue. Content that sparks outrage or frustration often ignites debates or calls to action.
- Compassion (6%): Content that elicits empathy or a sense of care for others—such as stories of kindness, resilience, or social causes—often encourages sharing to spread awareness.
- Surprise (2%): The unexpected grabs attention. Shocking or surprising content—be it an unforeseen twist or mind-blowing fact—can spark curiosity and sharing.
- Sadness (1%): Although less frequent, sadness can motivate sharing when the content resonates deeply with the audience, often encouraging others to reflect, support, or empathize.
The Big Takeaway
These findings show how emotions, both positive and negative, play a key role in inspiring people to share content. The most successful viral posts often evoke awe, laughter, or joy, leveraging the natural human desire to connect and engage with others through emotional experiences.
So, ask yourself: What emotions are you hoping to evoke in your audience with your next viral post? 😉
Source: OKDork