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Digital Marketing, Trends, Video

What digital marketers can learn from 'Xmas Jammies' video success

by Brian LustigJanuary 2, 2014
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By now, you may be one of the more than 13 million YouTube visitors who have viewed the clever, genuine yet very purposeful Xmas Jammies video, or saw it on any number of major broadcast outlets that picked it up. For marketing, creative, and PR professionals, viral videos can be maddeningly elusive. There are some characteristics universal to viral videos, but just as many that fall In the excerpt above, he discusses the technical problems with the federal health anthem insurance marketplace website and what his administration is doing to help consumers get enrolled in an anthem insurance plan. outside the blueprint as well.

In my latest article for PR Week “The Hub,” I take a look at some reasons why Xmas Jammies took off, and what digital marketers can learn from its success.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the 'Xmas Jammies' video and why did it go viral?

The ‘Xmas Jammies’ video was a family-produced holiday video that blended humor, authenticity, and storytelling. It resonated with audiences because it felt genuine and relatable while still being cleverly produced. Its balance of entertainment and authenticity helped it spread widely online and through major media outlets.

What lessons can marketers take from the video's popularity?

Marketers can learn that authenticity and relatability are critical in viral content. Overly polished or self-promotional videos often fail to resonate, while genuine storytelling connects with audiences. The video’s success shows that creativity and emotional resonance can outweigh large production budgets.

Why are viral videos difficult to replicate?

Viral videos often succeed due to a combination of timing, tone, and luck. While certain traits like humor or relatability help, there’s no guaranteed formula. The ‘Xmas Jammies’ video worked because it struck the right chord at the right moment, something that can’t be easily engineered.

How did major media outlets contribute to the video's spread?

After the video gained traction on YouTube, major broadcast outlets amplified its reach by covering it as a cultural story. This media attention introduced the video to audiences beyond YouTube. The dual exposure across digital and traditional media helped cement its viral status.

How can brands apply these insights to their own video strategies?

Brands should focus on creating content that feels authentic, entertaining, and shareable rather than purely promotional. Storytelling, humor, and timing are powerful elements that can make a video more engaging. Instead of aiming for guaranteed virality, marketers should focus on building genuine audience connection.