Types of viral marketing – Easy Guide with Real Examples

Published: 30 Sep 2025

Why do some posts get shared by thousands while others are ignored? The answer lies in the types of viral marketing. Knowing which method, like social media campaigns, referral programs, or viral videos, works best can make your content stand out and get noticed by the right people.

Infographic show different types of viral marketing names with images.

Now, let’s dive into the different types of viral marketing explained with benefits and real-life examples

Types of viral marketing

Viral marketing is a powerful way to make content spread quickly online. Brands use different methods to reach more people and create excitement around their products.

  1. Social Media Viral Marketing
  2. Content-Based Viral Marketing
  3. Video Viral Marketing
  4. Influencer-Driven Viral Marketing
  5. Email Viral Marketing
  6. Referral-Based Viral Marketing
  7. Meme Marketing
  8. Cause-Related Viral Marketing
  9. Interactive/Gamified Viral Marketing
  10. Emotional viral marketing

1. Social Media Viral Marketing

Social media viral marketing happens when content—like a post, picture, or meme—spreads quickly across platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. Brands use it to create buzz around products, while small businesses rely on it to grab attention. Influencers and even everyday users share trends that can unexpectedly go viral.

Benefits
  • Reaches millions of people in a short time.
  • Boosts engagement through comments, shares, and likes.
  • Makes a brand or trend instantly recognizable online.

Example: A funny dog meme gets thousands of shares on Instagram. Soon, the meme is everywhere, and the pet food brand tagged in the post enjoys sudden fame.

2. Content-Based Viral Marketing

Content-based viral marketing happens when people share blogs, articles, or infographics because they find them helpful or fun. Many bloggers, businesses, and even teachers use it to spread ideas or give knowledge. It works best when the content is simple and easy to understand. For a deeper understanding, you can also read our full article on what content marketing is.

Benefits
  • It builds trust by giving helpful information.
  • It brings more visitors to websites.
  • It keeps people interested in the brand for a long time.

Example: A blog with “10 Easy Study Tips” becomes popular and is shared on Facebook by thousands of students.

3. Video Viral Marketing

Video viral marketing occurs when an engaging video spreads rapidly on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram Reels. Brands often use videos to highlight their products in creative ways, while small businesses share short stories to connect with customers. Influencers also utilise viral videos to establish trust and foster strong connections with their audiences.

Benefits
  • Explains products more clearly using visuals.
  • Builds emotional connections with viewers.
  • Stays in people’s memory longer compared to text or images.

Example: A shoe company creates a TikTok dance challenge. Thousands of people join the trend, and without direct advertising, the brand gains massive popularity.

4. Influencer-Driven Viral Marketing

Influencer-driven viral marketing happens when famous people online talk about a product or brand. These influencers already have a large following of people who trust them. Brands, as well as small shops, use influencers to reach the right audience quickly.

Benefits
  • It builds trust because followers believe influencers.
  • It helps reach a specific target audience.
  • It saves time, as influencers already have a strong audience.

Example: A beauty influencer on Instagram shares a new lipstick. Her followers like the post, try the product, and the brand becomes popular in just a few days.

5. Email Viral Marketing

Email viral marketing happens when people forward an email to their friends or family because they like the message, offer, or design. Companies, online stores, and even small startups use this method to reach more people without extra cost.

Benefits
  • It spreads quickly through personal networks.
  • It is low-cost and does not require large advertisements.
  • It can bring direct sales by sharing discounts or offers.

Example: An online store sends an email with “Share this with a friend and get 20% off.” Many people forward it, and the store gets hundreds of new customers.

6. Referral-Based Viral Marketing

Referral-based viral marketing happens when a company gives rewards to people for inviting their friends. Customers share the link or code because they also get benefits. Big apps, websites, and even small online shops use this method to grow their users fast.

Benefits
  • It encourages happy customers to bring new people.
  • It creates loyalty because both sides get rewards.
  • It helps a business grow quickly without spending much on ads.

Example: Dropbox gave extra free storage space when users invited their friends. Many people shared it, and Dropbox became very popular in a short time.

7. Meme Marketing

Meme marketing happens when brands use funny pictures, jokes, or trending memes to share their message. It works well because people already enjoy memes and like to share them. Small businesses, big brands, and even influencers use memes to connect with young audiences.

Benefits
  • It grabs attention fast with humour.
  • It makes the brand look friendly and modern.
  • It increases shares because people love funny content.

Example: A pizza shop posts a funny meme about “hunger at midnight.” The meme goes viral, and many students start ordering pizza from them.

Cause-related viral marketing happens when a brand supports a social issue or charity. People share the message because they feel connected to the cause. Big brands, NGOs, and even local businesses use this type to spread awareness and goodwill.

Benefits
  • It builds a positive image of the brand.
  • It creates emotional connections with people.
  • It motivates people to support and share the campaign.

Example: A clothing brand runs a campaign saying, “Buy one shirt, and we donate one to the poor.” The idea spreads quickly, and many people join to support the cause.

9. Interactive or Gamified Viral Marketing

This type uses games, quizzes, or fun challenges to engage people. Users take part because it feels entertaining and exciting. Brands, apps, and social media platforms often use this style to increase active participation.

Benefits
  • Increases user engagement because people enjoy playing.
  • Encourages users to spend more time with the brand.
  • Makes sharing natural, as people love to invite friends to join the game or challenge.

Example: A food company creates an online quiz: “Which burger matches your personality?” People take the quiz, share their funny results, and more people join in.

10. Emotional Viral Marketing

Emotional viral marketing uses stories or messages that touch people’s hearts. It may make them laugh, cry, or feel inspired. Brands and even normal people use emotions to make their content spread fast. Emotions and word-of-mouth work closely together, making this type powerful. You can also check out our post on Buzz Marketing for similar ideas.

Benefits
  • Helps brands connect deeply with the audience.
  • Builds strong trust and loyalty.
  • Stays in memory for a long time because feelings are powerful.

Example: A brand shares a story of a teacher helping poor children learn. People feel inspired and share it with friends. Soon, millions watch it online.

Conclusion

So, friends, it’s time to wrap up! We have covered various types of viral marketing. Personally, I suggest starting with social media viral marketing because it is easy and free. Later, you can try other types, such as video or meme marketing. Viral success doesn’t come overnight, but it works step by step. Now it’s your turn—pick one type and create your viral content today!

FAQS about types of viral marketing

Here are some common FAQs about viral marketing types that may help clear up your doubts.

What is viral marketing?

 Viral marketing occurs when content spreads rapidly from person to person, much like a virus. It can be a video, meme, or post. The goal is to reach a large number of people quickly

Why is viral marketing important?

It helps brands get noticed without incurring significant expenses. Viral content can bring thousands or even millions of views. It makes the product or message very popular in a short time.

Can memes really help in marketing?

Yes, memes are fun and easy to share. Young people especially love them. If a brand uses memes effectively, it can gain popularity quickly.

What are the benefits of viral marketing?

It helps in reaching a large audience in less time. It saves money compared to traditional ads. Viral content also makes people remember the brand.

What are the risks of viral marketing?

Sometimes the message can be misunderstood. Not every viral post brings good results. That’s why planning is important before posting.

How can I start viral marketing for my business?

Start with a single type, such as social media or video. Create content that is both easy to understand and enjoyable. Share it on the right platforms where your audience is active.

Does viral marketing always work?

No, not every post goes viral. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. But trying again with better ideas increases the chances.

Rukhsana Iqbal Avatar
Rukhsana Iqbal

Hi! I’m Rukhsana Iqbal, a passionate digital marketing enthusiast. I love sharing simple tips and strategies that help beginners understand SEO, blogging, and online marketing in an easy way. My goal is to make digital marketing less confusing and more fun so that anyone can grow their online presence step by step. Let’s learn and grow together!

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