19 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started TikTok

Are you struggling to gain success on TikTok? Do you feel like the algorithm is randomly selecting who goes viral, leaving you with low views and frustration? Well, you're not alone. Many people believe that luck plays a significant role in TikTok success. However, I used to think the same until I discovered the key factors that contribute to growth on the platform. In this article, I will share the 19 most important things I wish I knew when I started TikTok, and how you can apply them to improve your chances of success.

1. Post Every Day

Consistency is essential on TikTok. You need to post every day to build momentum and show the algorithm that you are a dedicated creator. Don't get discouraged by low views initially. Keep pushing out content, even if it seems like nobody is watching. Posting consistently will help you learn, adapt, and improve your videos over time.

2. Consistency in Content

Posting consistently also means sticking to a specific theme or topic. Find your niche and create content around it. When you consistently deliver valuable content on a specific topic, you build a loyal following who will keep coming back for more. Additionally, focusing on one topic helps the algorithm understand your content and who to show it to, resulting in more views and potential virality.

3. Do Your Research

Research is crucial to understanding what works on TikTok. Don't rely on guesswork; instead, study what other creators in your niche are doing. Analyze their successful videos, pay attention to their topics, lengths, and hooks. By researching trends and popular content, you can create videos that have a higher chance of going viral.

4. Post More Often

Posting more frequently increases your chances of going viral. While there's no need to go overboard (3-5 times a day is excessive), gradually increase your posting frequency once you can consistently post every day. However, remember not to sacrifice research to post more. Always prioritize quality content over quantity.

5. Embrace Imperfect Action

Don't be afraid of imperfection. Take action and post your videos, even if they're not perfect. Don't obsess over low views or delete videos that don't perform well. Learn from your mistakes and focus on improving. Your winners will teach you more than your failures, so keep creating and analyzing what works.

6. Timing and Hashtags Are Not Everything

Contrary to popular belief, posting times and hashtags alone won't make you go viral. While there's no harm in using relevant hashtags, don't stress too much about finding the perfect ones. Focus on creating engaging content and delivering value to your audience. TikTok's algorithm prioritizes good ideas over trendy hashtags or posting times.

7. Optimize Your Account Settings

Ensure you have a Creator account, as it allows you to use commercial sounds. Business accounts may have features like links in bios, but commercial sounds are essential for success on TikTok. Also, check and modify your privacy settings to ensure your content is suggested to the right audience.

8. Utilize Auto Captions

Make use of auto captions to improve accessibility and influence the algorithm. By having relevant keywords appear in the captions, you provide more context for your video's content. This helps the algorithm understand the topic you are addressing, leading to better visibility.

9. Utilize Hashtags Strategically

While hashtags don't guarantee virality, they can provide a slight boost to your content. Use a mix of broad and specific hashtags related to your video's topic. However, don't overthink it. Focus on creating quality content and let the hashtags complement your video rather than overshadow it.

10. Maximize Video Descriptions

Take advantage of video descriptions to provide additional context and keywords. Use natural language that reflects your video's topic and hook. This will signal to the algorithm what your video is about and help target the right audience.

11. Growth Content and Trust Building Content

Differentiate your content into growth content and trust-building content. Growth content aims to go viral, attract new viewers, and increase your follower count. Trust-building content focuses on providing value and building a relationship with your audience. Strive to create a balance between the two, as both play significant roles in your TikTok journey.

12. Create What Your Audience Wants

While it's important to create content that excites you, don't forget to prioritize what your audience wants to see. Consider their interests, challenges, and aspirations, and tailor your content accordingly. Find the perfect balance between creating content you enjoy and content that resonates with your target audience.

13. Consume to Create

Consuming content related to your niche can fuel your creativity and provide new ideas. Treat consumption as a way to recharge your creative battery. While creating should always be your primary focus, consuming relevant content helps you stay in touch with trends, gain inspiration, and make valuable connections.

14. Find Your Unique Style

Developing your unique style sets you apart from other creators. Experiment with different editing techniques, effects, and storytelling formats to create a recognizable brand. Strive to bring your own personality and creativity to the platform.

15. Engage with Your Community

Building a genuine connection with your audience is crucial. Respond to comments, engage in duets, and collaborate with other creators. Encourage dialogue, ask for feedback, and make your viewers feel heard and valued. The more you engage with your audience, the stronger your community will become.

16. Utilize TikTok Challenges and Trends

Participating in TikTok challenges and trends can boost your visibility and increase the likelihood of going viral. Keep an eye on trending sounds, effects, and dances that align with your content and find a way to incorporate them into your videos. This allows you to ride the wave of popular trends and reach a wider audience.

17. Optimize Video Length

Shorter videos often perform better on TikTok. Aim to create impactful content within the first few seconds to capture viewers' attention. To maximize watch time, make sure videos align with your audience's preferences and adapt to their viewing habits.

18. Analyze and Adjust

Regularly analyze your video performance, trends in your niche, and the interests of your audience. Use TikTok's analytics to identify what is working and what is not. Adjust your content strategy accordingly, focusing on what resonates with your viewers and abandoning what doesn't.

19. Embrace Patience and Persistence

Success on TikTok takes time. Don't lose hope if your videos don't go viral immediately. Patience and persistence are key. Keep creating quality content, engage with your audience, and stay committed to your growth journey.

Keywords:

TikTok, algorithm, viral, success, consistency, niche, research, posting frequency, imperfect action, timing, hashtags, account settings, captions, video descriptions, growth content, trust-building content, audience, consumption, creative style, community engagement, challenges and trends, video length, analytics, patience, persistence.

FAQ:

Q: How often should I post on TikTok? A: Posting daily is recommended for optimal growth. However, start with a frequency you can manage and gradually increase as you become consistent.

Q: Do hashtags determine TikTok success? A: While relevant hashtags can provide a slight boost, they are not the sole factor for viral success. Creating engaging content remains crucial.

Q: What is growth content and trust-building content? A: Growth content aims to attract new viewers, increase followers, and go viral. Trust-building content focuses on providing value, building relationships, and converting viewers into engaged followers.

Q: How important is engaging with the audience? A: Engaging with your audience helps foster a sense of community and strengthens the connection. Responding to comments, collaborations, and dialogue with your viewers results in a more engaged and loyal following.

Q: How long should TikTok videos be? A: Shorter videos that capture attention within the first few seconds tend to perform better on TikTok. Focus on creating impactful content within the preferred video length of your target audience.

Q: What if my videos don't go viral immediately? A: Success on TikTok takes time and persistence. Don't be discouraged if your videos don't go viral right away. Continue creating quality content, analyzing performance, and adjusting your strategy based on audience preferences.