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START TIKTOK IN 2024 | algorithm secrets and new strategies

Introduction

Welcome back to my YouTube channel! If you're new here, my name is Cat, and I'm your Twitch streaming and content creation big sister. I want to start by thanking you for helping me reach 25k subscribers on YouTube while I was away visiting family over Christmas! Your support means the world to me, and I'm excited to aim for 50k in 2024. But first, let’s tackle a new topic: how to kickstart your TikTok journey in 2024.

Understanding TikTok and Why It Matters

TikTok has exploded in popularity, creating opportunities for countless creators, including myself. It’s a unique platform that differs from traditional social media, which can make the starting process feel daunting. However, don't worry—I'm here to guide you every step of the way!

Creating an Account on TikTok

  1. Download the App: First, head to your app store and download TikTok. Here’s a helpful tip: try to create your account while in a major country like the USA, Canada, or the UK. The reason? TikTok features can be region-locked. I’ve seen creators face difficulties because they set their accounts in regions without access to certain features, like the TikTok Creativity Beta Fund, which pays creators for videos over one minute long.

  2. Choose a Memorable Username: Your username should be easy to remember. Avoid using too many numbers or substituting letters with numbers that could confuse potential followers. Ideally, your username should serve as part of your brand.

  3. Utilize a Nickname: You can also set a nickname on TikTok, which is what appears when you comment on videos. Use this space to indicate your content type, such as "Cat - Stream Advice" or "Cat - Valerant Creator", which helps viewers identify your niche.

TikTok Video Strategies

Optimal Video Length and Features

As of January 2024, videos that are either under 30 seconds or over one minute tend to perform best. Videos falling between these lengths often struggle to gain views. Make sure to capitalize on new features as they tend to receive an internal boost. Recently, TikTok integrated with CapCut, which is favored by the platform, and photo slideshows are also gaining traction.

Hashtags and Sounds

Using 3 to 5 hashtags seems to be a sweet spot for exposure, with anything over 20 appearing spammy. Beware of hashtags like #fyp; they don’t have a significant impact on visibility. Additionally, adding trending sounds to your videos can further enhance their reach. You can find trending sounds by scrolling through the For You page or checking the music library.

Captivating Attention and Creating Series

Capture attention in the first three seconds of your video, as viewers often swipe away if not engaged right away. TikTok users find series very compelling, encouraging them to invest in the creator. For instance, you might follow someone doing the "Chica Dance" until they get a girlfriend. This investment creates anticipation and encourages engagement.

Incorporate Your Other Platforms

If you’re a Twitch streamer, consider how you can intertwine your TikTok content with what you do on Twitch. If your TikTok focuses on game-related content, seamlessly funnel viewers to your Twitch stream to align interests.

Branding and Catchphrases

Having a catchphrase can make your content memorable. Think of creators like Vivian, who starts her videos by saying, "Hi, I’m Vivian, your Rich BFF." This approach helps view content easier and sticks in viewers' minds.

Conclusion

This article covers essential strategies for starting with TikTok in 2024, focusing on username selection, video length, hashtags, and content engagement. I aim to help you navigate the evolving landscape of TikTok so you can maximize your potential.

If you found this article helpful, please subscribe and hit like! Don’t forget to check out my Etsy store for streaming badges and emotes, and join me on Twitch for live sessions three days a week!

Keyword

  • TikTok
  • Content Creation
  • Username
  • Video Length
  • Hashtags
  • Trending Sounds
  • Engagement
  • Catchphrases
  • Twitch

FAQ

Q1: What is the ideal username length for TikTok?
A1: Your TikTok username should be short and memorable. Avoid long names or excessive use of numbers.

Q2: How do I find trending sounds on TikTok?
A2: You can find trending sounds by scrolling through the For You page or checking the music library.

Q3: What type of videos should I create?
A3: Create videos that are either under 30 seconds or over one minute for better engagement.

Q4: How many hashtags should I use?
A4: It's recommended to use 3 to 5 hashtags per post for optimal visibility.

Q5: How can I engage viewers effectively on TikTok?
A5: Capture their attention in the first three seconds and consider creating a series to keep them invested in your content.

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