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How to go VIRAL on Instagram & TikTok

Introduction

Getting noticed on social media is no small feat, especially when you're trying to break through the noise and achieve millions of views. As someone who has gained over 30 million views on Instagram Reels and over 100 million views on single TikTok videos, I want to share the strategies that helped me overcome the struggle of passing 200, 1,000, and even 2,000 views. Let's master the game of social media together!

Understanding the Algorithm

First and foremost, we need to grasp how social media algorithms operate. When you publish content, it is initially showcased to about 20% of your followers and to potential viewers with similar interests who may not follow you yet. The algorithm assesses your content based on two core factors: watch time and engagement. Watch time is paramount because platforms benefit from users spending more time watching videos. If your video retains viewers’ attention, it is more likely to be shared with a broader audience. In contrast, videos that don’t engage viewers fail to get that prized algorithm boost.

To leverage the algorithm’s favor, let’s explore some strategies to increase watch time and engagement.

Secrets to Increasing Watch Time

  1. Create Loop Videos: Loop videos entice viewers to watch repeatedly. Simply finish with a sentence that ties back to the start of your video.

  2. Use Plenty of Text: Incorporate engaging text that tells a story or delivers a joke. Ensure the reading duration exceeds the audio length to boost repeated views.

  3. Tell a Compelling Story: Humans are inherently drawn to stories. Create engaging narratives with a clear beginning, middle, and end that will encourage re-watching and sharing.

  4. Tease End-Video Surprises: Create intrigue by hinting at an exciting reveal or twist later in the video. Use captions that provoke curiosity without revealing too much.

  5. Optimal Video Length: Aiming for videos that are 7 to 15 seconds long is a wise move. This length captures attention while limiting boredom.

  6. Use Trending Audios: Adding emotion with trending sounds that fit your video's mood can significantly enhance watch time.

  7. Create Custom Thumbnails: Thumbnails are the first impression on potential viewers. Use high-quality and visually appealing thumbnails to boost click-through rates.

  8. SEO Optimization: Implement search engine optimization by using relevant keywords and targeted hashtags in your captions. This helps your content rank higher in search results.

Hashtag Strategy

  • Use a combination of well-known, niche-specific, and branded hashtags.
  • Limit hashtags to 3-7 to avoid clutter and ineffectiveness.

Crafting Hooks for Engagement

The first few seconds of your video are crucial—they're your hooks. Compelling hooks encourage viewers to stick around. Here are some tactics for creating effective hooks:

  • Use punchy transitions or eye-catching visuals.
  • Present a clear value statement that keeps viewers wanting more.
  • Incorporate calls to action that direct viewers to engage with your content.

Importance of Hooks

Hooks resonate with viewers’ needs and goals, encouraging them to watch longer and signaling the algorithm that your content is worthy.

Increasing Comments for Higher Engagement

To amplify engagement, focus on getting more comments, as they significantly impact algorithm favorability. Here are strategies:

  1. Ask Questions: Pose questions in your videos to encourage responses.

  2. Create Lighthearted Controversies: Light, fun debates, such as “Do you like pineapple on pizza?” can spark meaningful discussions.

  3. Engage in Conversations: Respond to comments with questions to foster continued interactions.

Should You Start a New Account?

If after implementing these strategies over 2 to 4 weeks you still struggle to gain traction, consider starting a new account. However, investing time to apply the strategies discussed can yield significant rewards.

Conclusion

My name is Alex, and I specialize in online growth and businesses. Follow me on Instagram for more insights and explore my free eBooks linked in the description. Dive into my other videos to transform your social media approach and start monetizing your efforts!

Keywords

  • Instagram
  • TikTok
  • viral
  • social media algorithm
  • watch time
  • engagement
  • loop videos
  • storytelling
  • trending audios
  • SEO
  • hashtags
  • hooks
  • comments

FAQ

Q: What should I focus on to improve my algorithm ranking?
A: Focus on boosting watch time and engagement by producing higher-quality content and encouraging comments.

Q: How can I increase watch time on my videos?
A: Create loop videos, use relevant text, tell engaging stories, and utilize trending audios.

Q: What length should my videos be?
A: Aim for videos that are between 7 and 15 seconds for optimal engagement.

Q: Is using too many hashtags effective?
A: No, it’s better to limit your hashtags to 3-7 relevant ones to maintain focus.

Q: How can I get more comments on my posts?
A: Ask open-ended questions, engage in light debates, and respond to comments with more questions.

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