Ads Going Viral But Not Getting Sales?
Just think – you made an awesome Instagram Reel.
It was trending; you posted it at the right time.
The reel crossed 1 million views.
People are even commenting, “So cool!” and “It’s relatable!”
But when you opened the sales dashboard… the orders?
Just two!
Meaning, it went viral, but didn’t sell.
So what was the problem?
Well, it is a common problem in social media marketing, but let ‘s first understand the basics before getting into it.
What Does Going Viral Mean?
Going viral simply means that so many people have seen, liked, and shared your social media content.
Reels, memes, or short videos based on trending sounds or funny situations usually go more viral on Instagram and TikTok.
But going viral doesn’t always mean people will buy — and that’s where your digital marketing strategy matters.
Look at This Example:
A brand made a meme – “When your coffee is stronger than your Wi-Fi.”
The meme was funny, relatable, and got 500k views.
But the brand was selling coffee.
So the question is – did people order coffee after watching that meme?
Mostly not.
Because the meme made them laugh, but it didn’t make them convert — and that’s the difference between viral marketing and conversion marketing.
Read also: How to reduce CPC: Facebook & Google Ads.
Viral vs Conversion
- Viral Content: Brings attention
- Conversion Content: Drives action
You have to understand that they are both different parts of a content marketing funnel.
So, if the purpose of your content marketing is branding or seeking attention, then viral content is good.
However, if you want to sell, mere attention won’t be enough. For this, you need a solid performance marketing strategy.
Also read: Social Media Myths Debunked: Fact or Fiction? You Decide!
So What Actually Works?
Content marketing mostly relies on a funnel.
Here, in your case, this can be:
Creative + Funnel + Retargeting = Real Growth
Let’s break this down — this is what funnel marketing is all about:
Creative (Attract)
The first thing is to bring people’s attention to your brand.
A funny reel, meme, or emotional ad — all grab attention.
This is your top-of-funnel content — common in Instagram marketing or paid social ads.
Funnel (Educate + Offer)
Once you have attention, the next step is educating and offering:
Show them the product’s benefits, why they should buy it, and what they’re getting.
This step happens through a landing page, product website, or conversion ad.
Example: First, you showed a meme, then another ad saying –
“Order now and get 10% off – valid for 24 hrs!”
This is a classic conversion funnel technique.
Retargeting (Remind)
Many people reach the product page but don’t purchase.
These are the ones you retarget using Facebook Ads retargeting or Instagram remarketing.
Next time, show them a reminder:
“Still thinking about that perfect coffee? Here’s a 15% coupon.”
Boom – now they convert.
This is key in e-commerce marketing.
Final Words
Just going viral doesn’t build a business.
A business grows when there’s a plan that moves people from attention to action.
If you want your viral content to bring in sales, put it into a marketing funnel.
Take people step-by-step: Watch → Understand → Buy
Pro Tip:
Have a lead magnet ready after every viral reel:
- A special offer
- A link in bio
- Or a DM automation like: “Type Coffee for a discount”
Going viral is just the start. Conversion is the real game. That’s how smart social media marketers win.
Are you looking for social media marketing services in London? We can help; check out our packages or get in touch with us.
