TikTok Algorithm Explained: How to Succeed On TikTok

The TikTok algorithm is designed to serve users a personalised feed based on their preferences, behaviours, and interactions within the app.

Unlike traditional social media platforms, TikTok doesn’t rely solely on who you follow or your social network. Instead, it leverages a sophisticated recommendation system that continuously learns and adapts to your interests.

Read this guide to learn more about how the TikTok algorithm works and how to break past 300 views (TikTok Jail).

Understanding the For You Page (FYP)

The For You Page (FYP) is where users are presented with an endless stream of videos curated just for them. But how does TikTok decide which videos make it to your FYP?

1. User Interaction: TikTok tracks your every move – from the videos you watch to the ones you linger on, like, comment, or share. These interactions provide valuable signals that help the algorithm understand your preferences.
2. Content Relevance: The algorithm analyses the content of each video, looking at factors such as captions, hashtags, sounds, and visual elements. It then matches this information with your past behaviour to determine relevance.
3. Your Tok: Once TikTok can establish the type of content you enjoy (or create!) you’ll be sorted into a Tok. For example, you might fit into BookTok, ParodyTok, or many others. As a creator, it’s important to think about the Tok you and your audience will fit in most. Checking out our blog on Finding Your Tok for more information.
4. Diversity and Novelty: While TikTok aims to keep you engaged, it also strives to introduce diversity and novelty into your feed. This means you won’t just see content similar to what you’ve interacted with before but also fresh and trending videos that might pique your interest.

The Power of Data and Machine Learning in the TikTok Algorithm

At the heart of TikTok’s recommendation system is powerful machine learning algorithm, fuelled by vast amounts of data. Every swipe, tap, and scroll generates data points that are fed into these algorithms, allowing them to continuously improve and refine their recommendations.

Decoding the TikTok Algorithm and Escaping TikTok Jail

TikTok’s algorithm operates on a fascinating principle of trial testing all content before deciding its fate in users’ feeds. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

1. Initial Trial Pool (Approximately 300 Users):
   • When you upload a video on TikTok, it enters an initial trial phase where it’s shown to a small group of around 300 users.
   • During this phase, the algorithm closely monitors how these users interact with your video. Metrics such as watch time, likes, comments, shares, and even how quickly users scroll past your video are taken into account.
   • If your content isn’t performing well, this is where you’ll land in “TikTok Jail” and struggle to get past this 300 views mark.
2. Performance Evaluation:
   • Based on the engagement received during the initial trial, the algorithm gauges the video’s potential to captivate a broader audience.
   • If your video manages to garner sufficient engagement within this trial pool, it’s deemed worthy of further promotion.
3. Gradual Expansion (500-1000 Users and Beyond):
   • Successful videos progress to the next stage, where they’re shown to a larger audience ranging from 500 to 1000 users.
   • The algorithm continues to monitor engagement and adjusts the video’s visibility based on its performance.
   • If the video continues to resonate with users and maintain high engagement levels, it’s gradually exposed to even larger audiences, reaching thousands or even millions of users.
4. Improving the User Experience:
   • On the user side of this, once the algorithm monitors your likes, view time and more, it’ll then adjust your FYP to reflect your interests more closely. This creates a feedback loop where the algorithm serves you more of what you like, further enhancing your user experience.

How to Improve Your TikTok Content

To break out of TikTok Jail and grow your views past 300, you need to give a clear interesting hook at the very start of your content, so that people don’t scroll past.

Think: what Tok is your audience in and what do they find interesting? Consider creating a buyer persona template to develop a clear image of who your ideal customer is.

TikTok’s Creative Center is a great help to learn more about what’s popular at the moment. On Creative Center, you can see trending songs, users and videos to inspire your own content. You can even go into popular ads in your industry and see what exact second had the most clicks for a link.

Conclusion: The TikTok Experience

By harnessing the vast potential of data and machine learning, TikTok has created a platform that feels tailor-made for each user, keeping them endlessly entertained and engaged.

From the initial trial tests to the art of crafting an irresistible hook, every aspect plays a crucial role in determining the fate of your content on the platform.

At BuzzGen, we specialise in helping businesses and creators leverage the full potential of TikTok and other social media platforms. Our team of experts understands the nuances of algorithmic engagement, content strategy, and audience targeting, ensuring that your brand stands out amidst the noise.

Ready to Elevate Your TikTok?

Whether you’re looking to launch a viral marketing campaign, increase brand visibility, or engage with your audience on a deeper level, we’re here to help. Let us be your partner in navigating the ever-evolving world of social media.

Contact us today to learn more about our tailored social media services and take the first step towards unlocking your brand’s true potential in the digital age.