In our last blog post, we shared insider tips on how the TikTok algorithm works. The algorithm is based on user interactions, video information, device, and account settings. In this article, we will be sharing our tactics to help you build your TikTok content strategy to align with the algorithm. LET’S GET VIRAL! 

1. Switch to TikTok Pro

Whether you are a creator or business page owner, you should switch your regular TikTok accounts to TikTok Pro. This change cannot directly boost the reach of your content but you get extra analytics features. In your metrics and insights, you can now gather a range of data like who your audience is, their most active time on the app, and what kind of content they love. Then, you can develop your content strategy accordingly.

2. Find your subculture

On other social media platforms like Instagram, users mainly engage with accounts they follow. However, TikTokers spend the most time on the For You page because it shows them content they enjoy based on the algorithm we talked about last week. 

Subcultures on TikTok are very diverse, ranging from #fittok to #egirls/boys to #DarkAcademia. Each subculture has different characteristics, terminology, and aesthetics based on its value. However, one thing in common across all subcultures is authenticity. Being original and creative is always the key. If you find your content or brand values align with the subculture’s values, this will give your brand a unique position. 

3. Create high-quality content 

Nobody likes spending time on low-quality content, and it will not make its way to the For You page. High-quality content means it provides value, with good lighting, good sound, and edits to keep the video engaging. You do not need professional recording equipment to produce high-quality content; your phone and a good microphone are all you need. 

Based on TikTok’s business article, videos shot vertically have an average 25% higher 6-second watch-through rate is also very crucial on TikTok; fast-paced tracks that play at 120 or more beats per minute have the highest view-through rate. 

Moreover, trending effects also highly maximize your content to be promoted on the For You page.

4. Optimize the first few seconds of your content

After you post your content, your video might be shown on the For You page for a very short time. If there are very few views and engagements, they will be taken off from the For You page. You do not want to make a long introduction to your content. The key is to get viewers hooked to your video in the first few seconds. Insider tip: Create an attractive cover. (The most intriguing shot in your video with a catchy headline) In the first few seconds of your video, start your opening with powerful emotions such as surprise, which leads to a 1.7x lift compared to neutral facial expressions. 

5. Write an engaging caption

An engaging caption is another key to keep your audiences hooked on the video. It shows viewers why they should watch your video. Always use the caption to arouse curiosity. If it’s a workout video, you could simply ask “Can I lift this up?”. If it’s an informative video, ask “Do you know this smoothie makes your skin glow?”. An engaging caption helps reinforce the message of your video. 

However, you only have 150 characters limit for your caption. Make sure the caption is short and engaging and leave space for hashtags! 

6. Use trending hashtags

If you want new ideas for your content creation, you can always go to the Discover Tab and tap Trends on the app. There are a lot of hashtags related to different challenges, and allocating some of your content to trending hashtags lets the algorithm know that you are “on trend” in the platform. 

61% of TikTokers claimed they like the brands better when they participate in TikTok trends. If you want to find trending hashtags in your region, you can always check out TikTok’s creative center, where you will see top TikTok trends for the last 7 or 30 days. 

Small business owners can use hashtags like #smallbusiness, #entrepreneur, #sidebusinesscheck, #sidehustle, and #supportsmallbusiness. These hashtags are the communities supporting independent entrepreneurs. 

7. Use trending music and sounds

67% of TikTokers said they prefer business videos featuring trending and popular songs. Participating in any kind of trend is a good move if you aim for the For You page. 

Need help to find what songs and sounds are trending? Go to the TikTok home screen, tap the “+” icon at the bottom, then tap Sounds on the Record Video page, a list of trending sounds will appear. 

Now you know how TikTok’s algorithm works and the content strategy to work with it. The good thing with TikTok is you do not need a huge following to grow your account, as long as your content is creative, authentic, engaging, and relatable, your content has a high tendency to go viral. 

From campaign strategy to creative design and ads placement, we are the one-stop-shop to help you build your presence on TikTok, the next social media platform every brand and business wants to be on.

Contact us today at info@catalystagents.com to schedule a time with us to learn more!