Prep to Go Viral: Are You Ready to Catch the Wave?

I started off 2025 urging a more intentional and thoughtful approach to digital, and interestingly, one point that stood out to a reader was the question of intentionally preparing for to go viral.

In my previous article, I said:
“The algorithm continues making it harder and harder for your content to be seen in the flood, so make sure that when you do catch a wave, you are prepared to capitalize on it. How can you be prepared?”

This guide takes a more practical, in-depth approach to preparing for virality, and I hope it answers your question, Adrian Gordon, and helps others seeking more insights.

PS – Your questions are always welcome! They help me understand what’s important to you and challenge me to put my brain to work.


Understanding Virality: It Can Happen to Anyone

We’ve all seen viral moments—from the meticulously planned “Barbenheimer” movie release in 2023 to the unexpected Gangnam Style craze of 2012.

 

Fan Artwork – Email for credit to be applied.

 

Sometimes virality is manufactured by big brands, but often, it happens out of the blue. You never know when your content will hit the right note at the right time, reaching the right person, and boom—you wake up to find your name, content, or brand everywhere.

Since virality is unpredictable, you can’t control when it happens, but you can prepare for it to ensure you make the most of the opportunity.

(Note: This guide focuses on positive virality; handling negative virality is a crisis management issue requiring specialized handling.)

 

 

 

 

 

 


Step 1: Strengthen Your Digital Foundation

Before virality strikes, ensure your infrastructure can handle the surge in interest. Here’s how:

1. Website Readiness

  • Optimize for speed, scalability, and uptime.
  • Consider upgrading your hosting or using a Content Delivery Network (CDN) for faster load times.

2. E-commerce Optimization

  • Streamline checkout processes, payment gateways, and inventory management to prevent stockouts.

3. Customer Service Scalability

  • Ensure your contact channels (email, chat, social media) are functional and easily monitored.
  • Set up automated responses (chatbots, FAQs) for quick inquiries.

Pro Tip: Not sure where to start? Talk to a web developer for a quick assessment and upgrade while things are quiet.


Step 2: Build a Crisis and Response Plan

Viral attention can bring both opportunities and challenges. Having a plan in place ensures you remain in control.

1. Pre-Drafted Messaging

  • Prepare responses for media inquiries, customer concerns, and PR opportunities to maintain consistency.
  • Use AI tools like ChatGPT to draft quick responses tailored to different scenarios.

2. Social Media Monitoring

  • Use tools like Hootsuite or Sprout Social to track brand mentions in real time.
  • Not ready to invest? Take advantage of free trials or check if your current CRM offers social listening features.

3. Crisis Management Plan

  • Be ready to address negative feedback professionally.
  • Consider consulting a PR professional for support if things escalate.

Tip: Many PR professionals offer consultation hours—take advantage of them before taking action.


Step 3: Ride the Wave (Turn Virality into Longevity)

Once you’ve caught the wave, it’s time to convert attention into long-term success.

1. Optimize Your Sales Funnel (Internal Actions)

  • Implement lead capture strategies such as email popups, lead magnets, or SMS opt-ins.
  • Set up retargeting campaigns (Facebook, Google, TikTok) to re-engage visitors.
  • Offer upsells and cross-sells to maximize revenue.

2. Leverage Partnerships (External Actions)

  • Fulfillment Partnerships: Work with logistics providers to scale order processing efficiently.
  • Influencer Collaborations: Connect with influencers who can amplify your message. Check out our previous article on engaging influencers to support your marketing efforts.
  • Media Relationships: Build connections with journalists and bloggers in your niche.

Step 4: Stay True to Your Brand

When all eyes are on you, it’s easy to feel pressured to change. However, staying authentic is key to sustaining your success.

How to Stay Authentic:

  • Stick to your brand voice and values—don’t let sudden attention push you into unfamiliar territory.
  • Be transparent about delivery times, stock availability, and customer service capacity.
  • Engage authentically with your audience, thanking them for their support and fostering community.

Lessons from Valiant: Preparation Meets Opportunity

Valiant – Courtesy of DanceHallMag.com

At the 2024 Creator Summit, artist Valiant shared how his viral moment with “Kotch e Hat/ Fadda Dippo” didn’t happen by chance. He had an extensive back catalog of music, allowing him to sustain his success beyond the initial viral buzz. Check out a little synopsis of the trend here.

Lesson: Stay prepared. Your viral moment can happen at any time, and if you’ve put in the work, you’ll be ready to capitalize on it.


Final Thoughts: Be Ready Before It Happens

My biggest takeaway? Engage your inner Valiant—do the work and lay the foundation.
If and when your digital moment arrives, you’ll be prepared to ride the wave into long-term success.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments or reach out—I’d love to hear from you!

Want support with your digital strategy? Drop us a line: rae@startsocialcaribbean.com

 

PS – Here’s a FREE checklist to help keep you on track: Check Out Our Free Resource!

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