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How to Go Viral on Instagram (Even Without a Big Following)

Posted on 28th Jun, 2025.

TL;DR (The Short Version)

You don't need tens of thousands of followers to go viral.
Going viral is easier when you prioritise making content that's relatable or instantly shareable.
Other tips include mastering Instagram Reels, using a hook, and tapping into Instagram trends.
Buying followers, likes, and views can help you go viral by boosting you in the algorithm.
Read on for more!

Nowadays, going viral isn't just a privilege reserved for the biggest celebrities or creators. Anyone can go viral - as long as they've got the know-how, that is. And what does viral come with? More followers, more recognition, and increased popularity on Instagram. Thanks to the platform’s evolving algorithm and the rise of short-form content like Reels, even users with modest followings can strike gold with the right strategy.

No matter how many followers you have, this guide will walk you through actionable steps to boost your chances of going viral on Instagram with just a few simple tips. Let's get into it.

1. Master Instagram Reels

Instagram is pushing Reels harder than ever, and for good reason. This TikTok-style format is designed for discoverability, meaning your content can land on the Explore page or Reels tab even if your account is relatively unknown.

To make your Reels stand out:

Use trending sounds: Keep an eye on popular audio clips and jump on them early.
Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds: This could be through text overlays, an unexpected visual, or a provocative question.
Keep it short and snappy: Reels that are 7–15 seconds long often perform better.
Use native editing tools: Instagram tends to favour content edited directly within the app.

Don't be put off if you've never used Reels before - Instagram makes them pretty easy to master and you can even upload vids you've already made in TikTok.

2. Create Content That’s Instantly Shareable

The most viral posts on Instagram tend to have one thing in common: people feel compelled to share them. This could mean tagging a friend, saving the post for later, or sending it through DMs. Think about what makes someone want to pass a post along. It might be because it’s funny, emotional, informative, or just incredibly relatable.

Whether it’s a meme that speaks to a common experience or a quick how-to that solves a specific problem, content that’s useful or entertaining spreads faster. Focus less on how polished your visuals are and more on whether your post will make someone say, “I have to show this to someone.” A good Instagram caption can also help with shareability.

3. Hook Your Audience in the First Few Seconds

I know we talk about the hook all the time - but it's for good reason!

The beginning of your post, especially for video content like Reels, needs to be attention-grabbing. Instagram users scroll quickly, so you have only a couple of seconds to make them stop. Start with a bold statement, a surprising fact, or a visual that stands out immediately. If it’s a Reel, consider overlaying your opening line as text on the screen so viewers understand the value right away, even without sound. The goal is to create instant curiosity and make people want to watch or read until the end.

The longer users watch your video for, the better chance it has of gaining engagement, which is what ultimately helps it go viral.

4. Tap Into Trends (With Your Own Twist)

Trends definitely provide a shortcut to visibility, but with so many creators jumping on them these days, you need to differentiate yourself from the crowd by putting your own spin on trending content. Whether it’s a trending audio clip, a viral format, or a meme style that’s making the rounds, try to connect it to your niche or unique perspective.

For example, if there’s a trending sound that people are using to joke about work stress, and your niche is mental wellness, you could use it to create a humorous but insightful take on burnout, linking it to your existing content. Or if there's a trending audio, pull it into your niche. By providing a uniquely insightful or hilarious take on a trend, you're more likely to go viral.

5. Prioritise Engagement, Especially Early On

If you want your content to go viral, you have to be part of the conversation. Right after you post, spend time responding to comments, liking replies, and engaging with your community. The more activity your post gets within the first hour or so, the stronger the signal to the algorithm that your content is worth pushing to a wider audience. Plus, engagement builds relationships, and having a core group of followers who consistently support your content makes all the difference over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many views do you need to go viral on Instagram?

There’s no official number that defines “going viral,” but generally, if your post or Reel gets significantly more views than your average content, especially from users who don’t follow you, that’s a sign it’s gone (or is going) viral.

For smaller accounts, 10,000 to 100,000 views on a Reel might be considered viral. For larger creators, that number could be in the millions. The key metric is reach: if your content is being seen and shared by people outside your existing follower base, the algorithm is doing its job, and your content is taking off. Actual internet virality typically refers to millions of views.

How to get 1000 views on an Instagram Reel?

Getting to 1000 views on an Instagram Reel requires making humourous, engaging, and/or relatable content, as well as hooking users in at the start. Make sure your caption and hashtags are relevant and optimize for discoverability, post when your audience is most active, and engage with others right after publishing.

How do I become popular on Instagram?

Long-term popularity on Instagram doesn't usually happen overnight. It comes from building trust, delivering consistent value, and creating content that resonates. The best approach involves being consistent, sticking to your niche, using trending video styles, and engaging with your community directly. Popularity grows when people feel a connection to you, not just your content.

Going viral isn't reserved for big brands and content creators. By following our tips, you can have your own viral moment, resulting in introducing your content to a whole new audience.