19 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started TikTok
Education
Introduction
A lot of people believe that success on TikTok is purely down to luck; that the algorithm randomly picks users to go viral, leaving creators powerless. I, too, used to think this way, especially when my videos only garnered around 200 views despite my confidence in their quality. Feeling frustrated, I followed the advice of various “gurus” and created multiple accounts, hoping one would miraculously take off. Eventually, I realized that my struggle stemmed not from a lack of luck but from my lack of understanding of how TikTok functions.
Now that I’ve figured things out, I want to share the key principles that can help any creator grow on TikTok, even if they're complete beginners. So grab your notebook, don’t hesitate to pause, and let’s dive into it.
1. Post Every Day
This is the most essential takeaway. Posting daily builds momentum, allows for learning through trial and error, and demonstrates your consistency as a creator. Like me, you may feel reluctant on some days, but showing up is crucial. Commit to posting at least once every day; it only takes a few minutes.
2. Consistency in Content
Posting every day is vital, but consistency in the content themes you share is equally important. Niching down may feel daunting, but focusing on a specific topic or set of related topics captivates an audience and drives return visits, allowing the TikTok algorithm to effectively identify your content's primary audience.
3. Conduct Research
Many creators make the mistake of throwing random content into the algorithm and hoping for success. It's essential to research what works in your niche, learn from competitors, and identify successful elements such as popular hooks and engaging video formats. TikTok makes this easy: analyze creators in your space to discover what’s working before you create your own version.
4. Increase Posting Frequency
While some say you need to post three to five times daily, my experience shows that one high-quality post daily can yield great growth. However, once you establish a routine, consider increasing your output to discover what resonates with your audience and yields higher engagement.
5. Embrace Imperfect Action
Don’t be overly concerned with every video’s performance. If one receives low views or flops, brush it off. Focus on making more content, learn from what works, and stick with it.
6. Analyze Successful Content
Learn more from videos that perform well than those that don’t. If something works, do more of it! Analyzing these successful videos helps refine your approach.
7. Stop Overthinking Posting Times
Don't stress about when to post. Posting time isn’t as significant as content quality and engagement rates. Focus more on crafting compelling videos.
8. Avoid Obsession with Hashtags
Hashtags alone won’t determine your video’s success. Use relevant hashtags connected to your content but avoid overthinking or spamming popular tags.
9. Quality over Quantity
Great ideas are imperative. Focus on generating quality ideas for your videos to entice viewers.
10. Hook Them Early
Capture your audience’s attention within the first few seconds. Whether through text overlays or intriguing questions, draw viewers in immediately.
11. Use Auto-Captions
A significant number of TikTok users often scroll with sound off. Captions allow for easier understanding of your content without sound and maintain viewer interest.
12. Understand Algorithm Testing
Every video receives a baseline of 200 to 300 views to assess its performance. This is an opportunity for improvement!
13. Set Up Your Account Correctly
Ensure your TikTok account is a Creator account to access the platform's full capabilities, including trending sounds which can significantly boost your content.
14. Optimize Privacy Settings
Switch off account suggestive features to ensure your content is seen by your desired audience rather than unwanted connections.
15. Utilize Rich Keywords
Use text overlays and auto-captions effectively to signal to the algorithm what your video is about.
16. Create Two Content Types
Balance your content creation between growth-oriented viral posts and trust-building educational videos. The first is essential for gaining exposure, while the latter fosters a loyal audience.
17. Paint with Your Audience in Mind
Consistently create what resonates with your target audience. Balance your creativity with their expectations.
18. Refill Your Creative Tank
Engage with content to inspire your creativity. Consume strategically without forgetting to create actively.
19. A Continuous Growth Mindset
Look at metrics as areas for improvement rather than failures. Be willing to continuously adapt and learn.
By putting these principles into action, you’ll set yourself on the path toward TikTok success.
Introduction
TikTok, algorithm, content creation, daily posting, audience engagement, research, consistency, creator account, hashtags, video performance, growth content, trust-building content, view count, trending sounds, captions.
Introduction
1. How often should I post on TikTok?
- Consistency is key; aim to post at least once a day.
2. Does posting time impact the performance of my videos?
- While some creators emphasize posting at specific times, overall content quality and engagement matter much more.
3. How important are hashtags on TikTok?
- Hashtags can help categorize your content, but they won’t solely determine your video’s success.
4. What types of content should I focus on?
- Focus on both growth-oriented videos for broader reach and trust-building content for deeper connections with your audience.
5. How can I understand what type of content my audience wants?
- Research successful videos in your niche, analyze what resonates with viewers, and adapt your strategy based on this feedback.
