TikTok is so popular because you quickly find videos that suit you, even if you follow few accounts. Short videos make it easy to watch for a moment. You can also create something yourself or join in with a recognisable trend. The next time you visit, notice which video you watch to the end. What makes that particular video interesting to you?
Below, you can read how these four reasons work and what you can do with them in your own videos.
1. TikTok recommends videos that suit you
On the For You page, you see recommended videos. So you do not first have to search for and follow all kinds of interesting accounts. This makes it easy to discover something new.
According to TikTok’s earlier explanation of the For You page your actions, information about videos and account settings all contribute to recommendations.
The system that chooses videos using this information is called the algorithm. Suppose you enjoy drawing. You might come across a useful drawing tip from someone you do not know yet. The subject catches your attention; then you discover who created it.
Also, TikTok’s help information about recommendations mentions your actions as an influence on what you see. This does not make clear how much each type of information currently counts.
If you create videos yourself, you can also reach viewers who do not follow you yet. That does not mean every video reaches many people. Therefore, show quickly what your video is about. Then a viewer can decide whether to keep watching.
2. Short TikTok videos make it easy to watch for a moment
You can watch a short video in between other activities, for example while waiting for the train. You do not have to decide in advance that you want to spend half an hour on a subject.
Not every TikTok video is short. But in a compact video, you can see an entire joke, an answer or a result. You quickly understand what the video offers.
A fictional example: someone shows how to carefully free a stuck zipper. You first see the problem, then one action, and afterward the result. This sequence makes the explanation easy to follow.
There is also a disadvantage. One more video seems to take little time, but together those videos can become a long viewing session. Do you only want to watch while waiting? Decide in advance when you will stop, for example as soon as your train arrives.
3. Creating your own TikTok videos starts with one idea
You do not need to film a complicated story. Think of your dog bringing its lead, a failed cake or a handy way to pack your bag. One recognisable moment can already be a subject.
With your phone, you can start with something you already do. You also do not need to think of an entire series of videos right away. First, choose one thing you want to show.
This can also suit a small shop. For example, a bicycle repairer could show how to tell that a bicycle tyre is soft. The viewer then gets a useful answer instead of an advertising message.
Starting easily does not mean you will automatically get a lot of attention. First, make sure your subject is clearly visible and your explanation is easy to understand. That is something you can influence yourself.
4. TikTok trends give you an idea to join in with
A trend is an idea that several people repeat in their own way. Think of the same kind of joke, a challenge or a set way of showing a change.
When you recognise the format, you understand the idea quickly. You may then become curious about what this creator does with it. If you create a video yourself, that familiar format gives you a starting point.
Imagine a made up trend in which people show what is in their everyday bag. A student shows school supplies, a parent shows things for the journey and a swimmer shows a towel and swimming goggles. The idea remains the same, but each bag shows something different.
So choose a trend in which you can show something of your own. You do not have to follow them all. Would you like to know how the app became well known? Then read when TikTok became popular.
Why TikTok also appeals to people in the Netherlands and Belgium
These four reasons are not tied to one country. For viewers in the Netherlands and Belgium, familiarity from their own surroundings can add something. Think of a familiar accent, a dish from home or a situation at school.
For example, a video about cycling in the rain can feel familiar if you cycle every day. The creator does not need to explain the whole situation and can get to the joke or tip more quickly.
When making your own video, therefore, think not only about the country where your viewers live. Also ask yourself: “Who would find this useful or enjoyable?” They could be beginner runners, people with houseplants or students who make their own lunch. A shared interest gives you a clearer idea for your video.
What you can learn for your own TikTok videos
Would you like to create a video yourself? Try this sequence in your next video:
- Choose one subject. For example, show how you water a herb plant instead of explaining everything about caring for plants.
- Start with the question or result. Show the limp leaves before explaining what you are going to do.
- Show the important action. Cut out a long introduction. Do leave in everything the viewer needs to follow your explanation.
- Watch your video again as if you knew nothing about the subject. Can you understand what it is about without extra explanation?
Many views do not automatically mean that viewers find your explanation useful. If you make videos for a shop, they also do not automatically mean that you gain customers. Buying followers or views provides no such certainty either.
Would you like to continue with your own videos? Read the tips to get more views on TikTok. Find more background in the explanation of what makes TikTok popular.
