TikTok has become one of the most popular social media platforms in recent years. The TikTok algorithm is based on two ranking signals, which are user interactions and video information. This algorithm allows for high-quality content to go viral easily. In this article, we will explore how to use the TikTok algorithm to make your content go viral.
First we have to understand the ranking signals Tik Tok uses to decide which videos to promote:
User Interactions:
The TikTok algorithm takes into account several user interactions when determining the ranking of a video on the platform. These interactions include:
Watch Time: The amount of time users spend watching a video is one of the most important signals for TikTok's algorithm. Videos that keep users engaged for longer are more likely to be recommended to others.
Shares:
The number of times a video is shared by users on the platform is another key signal. TikTok considers shared videos to be more engaging and valuable to the community.
Comments:
The number of comments a video receives is another important signal. TikTok considers comments as a sign of engagement and interest in a video, and videos with more comments are more likely to be recommended to others.
Likes:
The number of likes a video receives is also a factor in TikTok's algorithm. However, likes are considered to be a less important signal than watch time, shares, and comments.
Video Information:
TikTok's algorithm also considers several factors related to the content of the video when determining its ranking. These factors include:
Captions: TikTok considers the text captions that accompany a video to be an important signal. Captions should accurately reflect the content of the video and be engaging to viewers.
Sounds and Music:
The sounds and music used in a video are also important factors. TikTok's algorithm considers how well a sound or music track is received by the community and how well it fits with the content of the video.
Hashtags:
The hashtags used in a video are also taken into account by TikTok's algorithm. Hashtags can help categorize a video and make it more discoverable to users who are interested in specific topics.
Video Quality:
Finally, the overall quality of a video, including its visual and audio components, is also a factor in TikTok's algorithm. Videos that are high-quality and engaging are more likely to be recommended to others.
Now the question becomes... how do we increase all those ranking signals? Here are a few tips that we promise will make you go viral.
Find Your Subculture
TikTok subcultures gather around hashtags. Therefore, it is important to find existing communities to engage with on all social platforms. If you can tap into an existing community, you are more likely to be amplified to the right audience. Some of the top communities on TikTok in 2022 were #BookTok, #CarTok, #FarmTok, and #CrochetersofTikTok. TikTok’s Audience Insights can help you find your subculture by identifying the interest categories and hashtags most relevant to your audience.
Maximize the First Moments
The hook for your video needs to inspire viewers to stop scrolling. The first two seconds are critical for recall and brand awareness. Grab attention and show the value of watching in the first seconds of your TikTok. For example, Crocs grabs your attention right off the bat with its Croc top.
Optimize for Search
TikTok SEO is the new buzzword. You want to make content for keywords and hashtags that people are searching for. This allows you to get your content in front of people who are actively seeking specific content on the platform, rather than just scrolling through the FYP. TikTok recently expanded the maximum length of captions to 2,200 characters. That extra real estate gives you plenty of room to work with keywords that will boost your TikTok SEO. Start looking for trending keywords by region and industry in the TikTok Creative Center.
Create High-Quality Videos Specifically for TikTok
Low-quality content is not going to find its way to the For You page. You don’t need any fancy equipment; your phone is the best tool for creating authentic video. What you do need is decent lighting, a good microphone if you’re going to record audio, and some quick edits and transitions to keep the content moving. TikTok videos can be 5 seconds to 10 minutes long, but TikTok says videos should always be longer than 10 seconds to make the best impression. Video completion rate is an important signal to the algorithm, so you don’t want people to drop off from your video because it drags on and on.
Post at the Right Time for Your Audience
Active engagement with your content is a key signal to the algorithm. Therefore, it is important to find out when your audience is most active on the app. TikTok analytics can help you determine the best time to post for your audience. From your profile page, tap the three dots icon at the top right of the screen, then tap Creator tools and Analytics.
In conclusion, using the TikTok algorithm to make your content go viral is a straightforward process. The algorithm is based on two ranking signals, which are user interactions and video information. Find your subculture, maximize the first moments, optimize for search, create high-quality videos specifically for TikTok, and post at the right time for your audience. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of your content going viral on TikTok.
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