Repentance often precedes or accompanies revivals. This was true at Pentecost and in many, but not all, of the Old Testament examples. In all of these cases it was Jews, the people of God, who were repenting. Likewise, some of the Old Testament revivals began by powerful movements of repentance, while in the case of Nehemiah's revival it was a late feature of the movement. We cannot create revival by repentance, but if revival runs its course we will likely see the people of God purified.
Revivals usually have a strong leader as a central figure.
Revivals usually center on a person, often a charismatic individual, who has, or is seen to have, power. Even Joash's revival fits the pattern, for although he was himself led by others, the nation as a whole saw him as a leader. In Jerusalem there were 12 apostles, but it was Peter's shadow that people wanted to fall on them. Thus, if God sends revival, strong leaders will likely emerge even in groups that want to discourage such charismatic figures. Revivals often have a strong biblical base.