TikTok has taken the social media world by storm, with over 1.1 billion active users globally. For content creators, brands, and influencers alike, the dream of going viral on TikTok has never been more achievable.
However, it’s not just about luck—understanding how the TikTok algorithm works and what type of content thrives can make all the difference. This article provides easy, practical tips on how to go viral on TikTok and stand out in a competitive space.
Hop on Trends Early
Trends are at the heart of TikTok, and they have the potential to expose your content to millions. A staggering 61% of users said they prefer brands and creators to participate in trending challenges. The earlier you adopt a trend, the more likely your video will appear on the For You Page (FYP).
- Action Tip: Regularly check the “Discover” tab to spot new trends. Add a unique spin to make your video stand out.
Leverage Popular Sounds and Music
TikTok’s algorithm prioritizes videos using trending sounds. It’s estimated that 93% of the most-viewed videos incorporate music or sounds that are trending at the time. Users tend to gravitate toward videos with popular audio clips because it feels familiar and relatable.
- Action Tip: Use trending songs and sounds by checking the TikTok library or seeing what’s commonly used on the FYP.
Create Short, Engaging Content
With the fast pace of TikTok, users often lose interest in videos within the first few seconds. Videos that are 15 to 30 seconds long perform significantly better, with watch times above 80% leading to more exposure by the algorithm.
- Action Tip: Hook your viewers within the first 2 seconds of your video. A quick, catchy start will keep people watching and increase your chances of going viral.
Use the Right Hashtags
Hashtags are an essential tool for boosting discoverability on TikTok. Videos with 5-6 relevant hashtags typically experience 30% more engagement than those with none. Trending hashtags like #ForYou and #viral can help expose your content to new audiences.
- Action Tip: Use a combination of niche-specific and broad, trending hashtags. #ForYou and #fyp have been known to drive views to the For You Page, though it’s important to balance them with more focused tags.
Post Consistently
Consistency is key on TikTok. Accounts that post 1-3 times per day are more likely to see viral success compared to those that post infrequently. In fact, 40% of viral content creators report that their regular posting schedule helped them go viral.
- Action Tip: Post at least once a day to keep your account active. You can experiment with posting multiple times daily to maximize your reach.
Engage with Your Audience
TikTok is highly interactive, and content that sparks conversations often performs well. Videos that receive a high volume of comments, likes, and shares are pushed by the algorithm, increasing their chances of going viral. For example, 46% of viral videos have a high interaction rate in the first 24 hours.
- Action Tip: Reply to comments on your videos and encourage viewers to interact by asking questions or running polls.
Create Shareable Content
The shareability of your video plays a huge role in its success. According to TikTok, 55% of viral videos are shared multiple times across other social media platforms. Videos that evoke emotions like humor, surprise, or nostalgia often get shared the most.
- Action Tip: Create funny, relatable, or inspiring content that people will want to share with friends and family.
Be Authentic
Authenticity is the hallmark of TikTok. Users gravitate toward creators who are genuine and relatable. Videos that are raw and unpolished tend to perform better, with 68% of viewers expressing a preference for real, behind-the-scenes content over highly produced videos.
- Action Tip: Show your real personality and avoid overproduction. Share personal stories, daily life moments, or behind-the-scenes content that humanizes you.
Collaborate with Other Creators
Collaborating with TikTok influencers or creators in your niche can help you reach new audiences. Influencer marketing has proven to be incredibly effective, with 56% of TikTok users discovering new creators through collaborations.
- Action Tip: Use TikTok’s duet and stitch features to collaborate with other creators. This exposes your content to their audience while engaging your own.
Experiment with Different Content Types
TikTok is a platform built on variety, so don’t be afraid to try new things. Some of the most successful creators experiment with different formats—skits, tutorials, challenges, and reactions—all of which cater to different viewer preferences. Diversifying your content keeps your audience engaged and opens up new opportunities for virality.
- Action Tip: Mix up your content by trying out different video formats to see what resonates most with your audience.
The Formula for Going Viral on TikTok
Going viral on TikTok isn’t just about creating content—it’s about understanding the platform, engaging with trends, and staying authentic. By leveraging popular sounds, creating short videos, and participating in trends, you can significantly increase your chances of going viral. Keep posting consistently, interact with your audience, and remember that the most successful videos are often those that are relatable and shareable. TikTok’s massive audience means there’s always potential for the next viral sensation—you just need to find your moment!
Final Stats to Remember:
- 1.1 billion active users on TikTok globally.
- 93% of viral videos use trending sounds.
- 68% of users prefer authentic, raw content.
- Accounts posting 1-3 times daily are more likely to go viral.
- 55% of viral videos get shared across multiple platforms.
By following these simple steps and paying attention to what’s currently popular, you can maximize your chances of going viral on TikTok and growing your presence on the platform.
