Unlocking TikTok: The Myth of the Secret to Going Viral
Written on
Chapter 1: The Enigma of TikTok Fame
The average user spends around 52 minutes daily on TikTok, with teenagers exceeding that duration significantly. During this time, they become influential figures within the platform, engaging with videos by watching, liking, commenting, and following creators.
However, the real power lies with TikTok’s algorithm—an intricate system that determines what content users will encounter. Each interaction, from viewing to commenting, contributes to shaping this algorithm to align with personal preferences and interests.
On the flip side are the creators who strive daily to produce engaging and shareable content, often in obscurity, questioning why they haven’t reached the heights of influencers like Charli D’Amelio or Bella Poarch.
An overwhelming number of TikTok's 800 million users grapple with the perplexities of achieving viral success, leading to a plethora of content aimed at deciphering the elusive algorithm.
One user, Crawlie, encapsulated this frustration: “I had one TikTok blow up once, and now whenever I post something that doesn’t go viral, I think, ‘What’s wrong with the algorithm today?’”
Indeed, TikTok’s unpredictability resembles a gamble; achieving viral status can feel like hitting the jackpot at a slot machine. One moment you’re celebrating a video with over 400,000 views, and the next, you’re left puzzled, unable to replicate that success.
The first step to viral content is landing on the “For You” page, TikTok's personalized feed curated by the algorithm. Although there's also a “Following” feed, it is often overlooked, contrasting with Twitter's user-centric timeline.
Section 1.1: Theories on Going Viral
There is no shortage of theories, some of which contradict one another, regarding how to achieve virality on TikTok. Here are some insights gathered from TikTok explainer videos and personal observations. However, it’s important to note that these may not guarantee success:
- Hashtags: Many users believe that utilizing hashtags relevant to trending topics is essential. The once-popular #FYP (For You Page) tag is now thought to be ineffective.
- No Hashtags: Some videos thrive without any hashtags, suggesting that they can still appear in the FYP regardless.
- Trending Sounds: Creators often claim that using specific sounds can guarantee virality. I tested this theory, and it didn’t yield the expected results.
- Quick Cuts: Engaging TikToks often feature rapid video transitions to maintain viewer interest, with creators sometimes appearing to converse with themselves.
- Text on Screen: Since many viewers watch TikToks without sound, incorporating text or captions is crucial for comprehension. While some creators use text effectively, others can overwhelm viewers with dense information.
- Minimal Text: There exists a viewpoint advocating for unembellished videos, though I personally disagree with this approach.
- Skin Exposure: Content that showcases skin tends to perform well, drawing attention similar to trends on other platforms.
Section 1.2: Engaging with TikTok Content
To enhance the chances of content appearing on others' FYPs, consider these actions:
- Watch the Entire Video: Engaging fully with a TikTok often signals interest to the algorithm.
- Like the Video: A straightforward yet effective signal of appreciation.
- Follow the Creator: This indicates a desire for more content from that individual.
- Post a Comment: Engaging through comments can significantly boost visibility, as it signals deeper interaction with the content.
It's crucial to remember that the algorithm's primary goal is not to elevate creators to stardom but to keep users engaged, encouraging them to watch more content.
Chapter 2: The Randomness of TikTok
Many TikTok users believe that the algorithm operates randomly, leaving them with little control over their visibility. Some posit that this very randomness contributes to TikTok's allure, as users remain captivated by the unpredictability of what they might encounter next.
I have developed a theory regarding TikTok success, which I believe consists of four key elements:
- Creativity
- Consistency
- Quality
- Effort
Excluding celebrities and early adopters, I’ve observed that creators who carve out a niche, deliver innovative content regularly, and maintain a steadfast approach tend to see their engagement metrics improve over time.
While there will inevitably be exceptions, as even quality content can be overshadowed by the vast array of TikTok offerings, I generally believe that the algorithm favors quality.
Interestingly, I have yet to fully adhere to my own guidelines for success, which explains my current struggles on the platform.