questions and answers on viral advertising

1. Viral Advertising/ Marketing
1. Viral advertising/marketing is a marketing technique where the use of social
networking and websites is used to pass on a marketing message onto other users
and sites, this creates growth. It is an example of covert advertising.
2. One principle behind viral marketing is incentives. Free products and services can be
offered in exchange for sharing company information. This is a way of free
advertisement. Another principle is ease of use, the product or service must be easily
transferred so it can be spread throughout social networking sites. The message
must be clear and concise. It first was introduced in the 1950’s. Viral marketing first
began when hotmail became popular; businesses had easy access to a variety of
different people. Whereas nowadays social networking sites such as Face book and
Twitter are more familiar. Viral advertising relies on the audience participation and
taking an active part in the marketing for it to be able to work.
3. New media technology is a major part in viral campaigns and is an incredibly useful
tool. It almost relies on social networking sites such as Face book and Twitter to
increase awareness of a brand and business and distribute information. It is one of
the easiest and quickest ways to spread information about a brand or product. It can
be spread in very short amounts of time which is very effective.
4. One reason it appeals to institutions is because it does not cost much because it is all
online and relies on media audiences for it to go viral. Another reason is it does not
take up large amounts of time and can quickly go viral. It appeals to audiences
because it is easily accessible and it doesn’t have a price, for instance Face Book.
They can be very effective to promote a business or product and raising brand
awareness therefore developing brand identity. Furthermore it makes the audience
feel involved and they will have a sense of satisfaction, gratification and
empowerment. For the audience is creates a sense of enigma which engages the
audience because it has a sense of involvement and enjoyment.