news

At the time we’re writing this, a Facebook newsfeed story for our client Windset Farms has had 1,080 shares, 304 likes and 91 comments since it was put up a week ago — and it’s still going strong.

It’s a mini exposé on the numbered PLU codes used on produce stickers. Here are the reasons we think it went viral:

• It provides insightful information about something pretty much everyone is familiar with, but most didn’t understand
• It gives the reader a simple but meaningful way to improve their lifestyle (e.g. to avoid produce with PLU codes that start with 8)
• The facts are sourced and the reference is included — increases credibility
• The topic is currently in the news
• The story’s told short and sweet
• A colourful picture demonstrates the concept
• It’s useful, interesting content Facebook users will want to share with their friends

To make the most out of this tidbit, we also posted it on pages where we thought it would be well-received. We made sure to post around the time of week when Facebook traffic tends to be highest — Wednesday afternoon.

Thanks to good timing and a compelling message, the post garnered attention completely organically, with no paid Facebook advertising.