The Truth About Going Viral: Why It’s Not a Marketing Strategy

Everyone wants to go viral, but what actually happens when you do? And more importantly, does it move the needle for your business?

In this episode, we’re sharing a real client case study where a short, unplanned Reel unexpectedly racked up over 250,000 views. It was shared thousands of times, saved by hundreds, and sparked major engagement…but the results might surprise you. 

Spoiler: more views doesn’t always mean more clients.

If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing something wrong because your content isn’t taking off or getting “enough” engagement, this episode will reframe your perspective. Let’s walk through why going viral often doesn’t lead to conversions, and what actually does. Because strategy - not virality - is what creates sustainable growth.

Episode Highlights:

• A real-world case study of a viral Reel with over 250,000 views, and why it didn’t convert

• Why engagement from non-followers rarely brings in leads for service-based or local businesses

• The mindset shift every entrepreneur needs to hear: virality is a moment, strategy is a system

• Why chasing views, likes, and vanity metrics can leave your business stuck

• What to focus on instead: content that connects, clear messaging, repurposing what works, and performance goals that matter

Going viral might feel exciting in the moment, but if it’s not reaching the right audience or supporting your business goals, it’s just noise. Sustainable growth comes from showing up with intention, connecting with your ideal clients, and building a strategy that works behind the scenes, even when the views are modest. 

If today’s episode helped shift your perspective, I’d love for you to subscribe to Stop the Scroll and leave a review. Your feedback helps more entrepreneurs discover the show and reminds the algorithm that this content matters.

Resources

• Join the Small Business Social Media Marketing Masterclass

• Book a Strategy Call

• Want ongoing marketing support? Inquire about retainer openings for August

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Connect with me:

Website - https://www.heidijschmidt.com/

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Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HeidiSchmidtCreative/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/legallyheidi/

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