Virality content panel at 2015 Journalism Interactive conference talks about clicks, going viral
Panelists Annie Colbert, viral content editor at Mashable, Thomas McBee, director of growth at Quartz, and Erica Williams Simon, deputy editor at Upworthy discussed virality and viral content.
- The virality content panel at the Journalism Interactive Conference encompassed the nature of viral content: it was fun, engaging and informative.
The social-sphere was strong as people in attendance participated live along with Colbert, McBee and Simon.
The break-out session focused on viral content, of course, from shareable content to headlines.
So, what is shareable content? 
Why do ppl share? Shareable: "I am angry, yet entertained. I must do something, right now." Emotions are powerful. @createdbyerica #jiconf
Creating shareable content: Don't be too narrow on your audience, think about what humans want to see, says @createdbyerica #jiconf- "Think about your audience in a different way ... Ask: What is resonant with humans?" @createdbyerica #jiconf
- There’s the running joke journalists fear math, but even viral content has a formula:
Making things go viral is hard work, says @createdbyerica of @Upworthy #jiconf pic.twitter.com/dDTxevjlU3- Colbert, McBee and Simon said viral content is constantly evolving.
- Failure is common, so what matters is evaluating. Constant growth is key. -- @createdbyerica #jiconf
- A key point the panelists brought up was how viral content has changed from clickbait headlines, and is largely dependent on the platform.
- The platform changes everything. For ex., Facebook is a major platform now. You have to sell content in a thumbnail. --@anniecolbert #jiconf
- Good content: if no one sees it, it doesn't matter. --@createdbyerica #jiconf
Headlines are not as important any more due to direct embeds @createdbyerica #jiconf- Of course, viral content can’t be talked about without mentioning one of the most recent viral revolutions: #thedress. When it comes to viral content, the panel discussed how getting in the conversation is incredibly important.
- Several people in attendance at the panel shared content related to virality for others to explore:
If you're interested in data about what makes stories go viral, I recommend this book: http://bit.ly/1IQMd3u #jiconf
