20 Tips on How to Make a Video Go Viral on TikTok

You've set up your TikTok account and spent time learning the ropes and creating a few TikToks. Finally, you're ready to reach beyond your friends and try to connect with a broader audience. Unfortunately, you quickly discover that getting views on TikTok isn't as easy as it looks. Sure, some people seem to go viral overnight, but their success is often based on trends and formulaic TikTok video ideas you can replicate. Don't get discouraged if you struggle to make your first viral TikTok. Instead, let this guide help you in your quest to go viral. You'll discover proven strategies to help you, like finding TikTok trends to go viral fast.  TikTok's algorithm favors videos that engage users quickly, and using Virlo's solution, the virality analysis tool can help you pinpoint trends to reach your goals.

Table of Contents

• Benefits of Going Viral on TikTok

• How Does TikTok Algorithm Work

• 20 Tips on How to Make a Video Go Viral on TikTok

• 30 Best Content Ideas for Going Viral on TikTok

• Go Viral with Virlo's Virality Analysis Tool

Benefits of Going Viral on TikTok

Going Viral on TikTok Builds Engagement and Loyalty 

Viral videos on TikTok build engagement and loyalty. When a clip goes viral, it can feel like a celebrity. Thousands—even millions—of viewers give a video their stamp of approval. When something a business produces goes viral, it increases its visibility. And who doesn’t want that? A viral TikTok video can help a business reach customers who have never been exposed to the organization through traditional channels. If they’re intrigued, they take the step to visit the website to get a good look at the products and services.

If the individual visits the site through Google or another search engine and spends time exploring, it can help the website appear higher on the search engine results page. Visitors start to explore the site, and if they’re first-time visitors, they begin to establish a relationship with the brand. The viral video was the first touchpoint; if they liked what they saw, they bought. This is a great starting point for increasing engagement and loyalty. A viral video reinforces the brand and builds credibility for those who are already customers or familiar with the brand. It shows them that others also see the value of the business. A viral video for established customers can reassure them that they are making good choices. 

Going Viral on TikTok is Cost-Effective Marketing 

There are many ways to use marketing and advertising dollars. Traditional marketing will never go away. However, having a video go viral is a cost-effective way to reach your target market. As more and more people view the video, the return on the investment grows. But it’s vital to remember that it’s one of many tools, and you can’t rely on everything you create to make a big splash. So be sure that viral videos are part of a larger strategy. That strategy should include great content, posting to the right sites, and making sharing easy. 

Does Anyone Notice When You Go Viral? 

Does making a creative, compelling, emotional video always get you noticed? The reality is that many well-produced, clever viral videos never get wide distribution. There are lots of reasons. The distribution channel may not be suited to the content. Maybe it’s a matter of timing. You might never know why one video gets millions of views and another does not. Some believe there is a formula for helping a video go viral.

Perhaps, but just following what others do doesn’t guarantee success. It takes a lot for a video to be regarded as unique, and not everyone can hit the mark. That causes some to abandon the effort. It takes consistency and patience to see results. Think of the authors who have written countless books before they have a bestseller. Were the earlier books not well-written? Or was it just a matter of timing? How about musical bands that produce records for years without hitting the big time? The lesson here is that viral video takes work. But if it is an appropriate part of your strategy to stay the course, don’t give up.

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• How Do I Get More Views on TikTok?
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• TikTok Competitor Analysis

How Does TikTok Algorithm Work

Your activity in the TikTok app is the most potent signal for the algorithm. TikTok uses every time you like a video or follow a specific account to understand your preferences further. Here are some of the user interaction signals TikTok will track: 

• Watching full videos

• Following or hiding accounts

• Liking or sharing videos

• Commenting

• Reporting a video as inappropriate

• Adding videos to favorites

When you first join the app, TikTok also uses what you say you are and aren’t interested in to guide its suggestions. Other users’ interactions on a video can also determine whether you get it on your feed. If many people who share your interests watch and like a post, there’s a bigger chance you’ll see it, too.

The Role of Video Information in TikTok's Algorithm

On the flip side of the equation, TikTok reviews specific characteristics of the videos you’ve interacted with to see how they match your preferences. That’s important for creators to know since these are the things we have the most control over. Here are a few of the video and post characteristics the algorithm looks for: 

• Hashtags

• Sounds

• Captions

Device and Settings Signals TikTok Uses to Recommend Content

Device and settings are also user-specific actions the algorithm uses to recommend content. If registered as a US user, you’ll see more content made in the USA. But unlike user interactions, these are one-time signals that don’t typically change over time. A few device and setting signals that may nudge the TikTok algorithm include: 

• Language setting

• Country setting

• Device type

How TikTok Weights Ranking Factors

TikTok’s algorithm weights ranking factors based on how directly they indicate viewer preferences. Direct user actions, like watching a full video, carry much more influence than geographic location. While it’s good to be aware of all the ranking factors, your focus should be posting content your audience will want to watch and share. Virlo helps short-form content creators crack the code of virality through AI-powered trend analysis. Our platform combines creator insights with advanced analytics to identify winning content patterns, optimal posting times, and successful audio/video combinations that help your content stand out in today’s fast-moving social landscape. 

Perfect for independent creators looking to build a sustainable side business, Virlo takes the guesswork out of content strategy. We analyze the latest viral trends and help you understand when to post and what combinations of elements drive engagement. Whether you’re just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo enables you to navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo’s virality analysis tool. 

20 Tips on How to Make a Video Go Viral on TikTok

1. Use Virlo to Find Latest Trends  

Virlo helps short-form content creators crack the code of virality through AI-powered trend analysis. Our platform combines creator insights with advanced analytics to identify winning content patterns, optimal posting times, and successful audio/video combinations that help your content stand out in today’s fast-moving social landscape. Perfect for independent creators looking to build a sustainable side business, Virlo takes the guesswork out of content strategy. We analyze the latest viral trends and help you understand when to post and what combinations of elements drive engagement. Whether you’re just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo enables you to navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo’s virality analysis tool. 

2. Stay Up to Date with What's Trending  

TikTok is one of the most trend-driven social media platforms, so to go viral, you have to keep up with what’s hot on the app. This can inspire you to create similar content, whether a specific dance challenge, audio clip, video format, or topic. Fortunately, finding out what’s trending on TikTok isn’t tricky. TikTok’s Creative Center is packed with insights on up-to-the-minute trends. Within its keyword insights, filter by region, industry, and timeframe to see what users are talking about. You can also browse TikTok to spot patterns on your For You page. As you browse through and identify a trend, consider whether it’s relevant to your niche, and if so, jump on it and create your video. Note that TikTok trends don’t tend to last more than a few days, so if you have an idea that has the potential to go viral, it’s best to tap into it right away.

3. Know Your Audience  

Finding an active niche community and crafting content for your target audience improves engagement. Research what appeals to your target demographic, then craft videos that speak to those interests. Share your two cents on trending topics in your niche to keep viewers engaged.

4. Use Relevant Hashtags  

Hashtags help TikTok’s algorithm categorize your content to be displayed to the right users. Using the right hashtags can increase the chances of your videos going viral. While trending hashtags are helpful, niche hashtags relevant to your brand may offer more potential for going viral on TikTok. Some hashtags have staying potential on TikTok as well as universal appeal. Chief among them is #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt, a hashtag for users to share products they discovered on the platform. You can search trending hashtags in your niche within the TikTok app. Enter a keyword in the search bar (without the hashtag), and once the list of results is loaded, tap on the Hashtag column, and you’ll find a list of trending hashtags and the number of views received by videos with these corresponding hashtags. Community hashtags also tend to stick around and have particular audiences. Tapping into the ones relevant to your brand can be a goldmine for finding potential fans, influencers to work with, and ideas to help you create viral videos.

5. Add Trending Sounds to Your Videos  

TikTok’s sound library is a goldmine for improving visibility. When a sound goes viral, TikTok often pushes videos that use it, giving your post a better chance of being seen. Look for trending music and audio clips on the Sounds page and add them to your videos for an extra boost.

6. Understand TikTok’s Algorithm  

Like the other social media platforms you use, TikTok uses an algorithm to show the best content to its users. They call it the recommendation system, and it’s how content is chosen to be displayed on the For You page. Every user sees a unique, curated feed that’s tailored to its content preferences. TikTok helps users discover other videos similar to what they’ve liked before. So, some users might see predominantly trending cooking videos, while others might see lots of funny cat videos.

7. Spark Curiosity  

According to TikTok, content intended to spark curiosity keeps users watching 1.4 times longer. The longer users watch your videos, the more likely the algorithm will see the content as worth surfacing to other users. 40% of millennial TikTok users and 44% of Gen X users say the platform helps them discover new things and gives them something to learn. To inspire curiosity, create content around new ideas, groundbreaking technologies, innovative hacks, or other things users may not typically see on the platform.

8. Post Consistently at Optimal Times  

To keep your TikTok followers engaged, develop a consistent posting schedule that aligns with peak times. Post videos regularly and experiment with the best times to publish. TikTok’s analytics can help you determine when your followers are most active, so you can drop new TikTok content when viewers are most likely to engage.

9. Participate in TikTok Challenges  

TikTok challenges are created in two ways: by brands looking to generate hype around their business and by popular creators and TikTok influencers who want to get noticed. You can check out challenges on the Discover page on the app. Search “challenge,” and you’ll get content under that hashtag. Stick with challenges that work for your brand; don’t be afraid to participate in challenges. Your customers may see your videos as they scroll through their feeds and, hopefully, interact and help them get more traction.

10. Tell a Story  

Storytelling is consistently one of the best ways to attract followers and customers to your brand. That’s because authenticity and human connection can build trust and affinity with your target audience. This is especially true on TikTok, a platform that values good content over polished content. If you can tell a great story, it doesn’t matter if you don’t have professional equipment or editing chops. TikTok identified “Storytelling unhinged” as a trend force for 2024. This refers to unpredictable storytelling with unique characters and formats. One of the most popular among these is creator Reesa Teesa’s 50-video arc, “Who TF did I marry?”

11. Create High-Quality Content  

High-quality visuals and sound are essential for grabbing viewers’ attention. Invest in good lighting and produce well-composed shots, as polished videos tend to perform better in the algorithm. Don’t be afraid to add creative effects, but don’t let it detract from the value you’re bringing viewers. Stay on-brand, and make sure your content reflects your style and personality.

12. Interact With Your Followers  

Knowing how to go viral on TikTok means understanding the importance of interaction and engagement. If you’re serious about going viral on the platform, your efforts should not end with posting content. Social networks are a great place for interaction with your customers—and TikTok is no exception. Apart from posting TikTok videos, you also want to engage with your followers and encourage them to interact with you. Replying to comments from your TikTok audience can create a sense of community and increase the chances of your content going viral, as the video platform’s algorithm rewards interaction. You can encourage engagement by including a call to action in your videos. For example, you can sign off your videos by asking your followers to leave me a comment, share their thoughts, share my TikTok video, follow my account, or even respond with a video of their own using the Stitch or Duet features.

13. Collaborate With Other Creators  

Teaming up with other creators helps you reach new audiences and build credibility. TikTok’s Creator Marketplace is an excellent resource for finding collaborators for joint videos. These partnerships can be mutually beneficial to grow followers and interactions, especially if you share a similar niche.

14. Keep it Short and Engaging  

TikTok started as a short-form video app with a maximum of 15-second video length upload. It has upped the limit to 3 minutes, but most videos are still significantly shorter. If you get your audience to watch your videos till the end, TikTok will recognize that people enjoyed them. This means that the social media platform will show it to multiple other users, contributing to the success of your content.

15. Experiment With Different Content Formats  

Knowing how to make a viral TikTok means mixing up your content. Consider tutorials, Q&A sessions, reaction videos, storytimes, comedy skits, and vlogs. Try different formats to see what resonates. Posting varied content types lets you showcase your versatility, captivating your TikTok audience and improving your reach.

16. Vary Your Video Length  

Varying the lengths of your videos can optimize viewer engagement. While TikTok is known for its short-form videos, research shows longer videos get more views. Mixing up your formats can help your brand stand out. Videos under 15 seconds are perfect for quick, impactful content that’s easy to consume and share. This format appeals to fast-scrolling users who prefer snappy, memorable content they can watch on the go. Medium-length videos, between 30 seconds and a minute, allow for more detailed storytelling or tutorials. Longer videos, up to three minutes, are ideal for in-depth exploration. By incorporating longer videos, you can showcase your expertise and provide valuable content that helps build a loyal and engaged audience.

17. Take Your Videos to Other Social Media Platforms  

Sharing a TikTok video on other social media channels like Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube Shorts is an excellent way of getting more views on your content. Cross-promoting lets followers from other platforms discover your TikTok, increasing the chances for new followers and more engagement.

18. Add Value and Educate With Content  

If humor isn’t your thing or the tone doesn’t match your brand voice, you can still be entertaining by adding value through educational or behind-the-scenes content. Be relatable and authentic if you want to cater to the TikTok crowd and go viral with this content. That means offering value to your audience with information, recipes, hacks, or product tips while staying true to your brand.

19. Start With a Hook  

With shortening attention spans and most TikTok videos lasting mere seconds, you’ll need to grab viewers’ attention instantly. The “hook” must be established in the first few seconds—if not the first frames. According to TikTok, over 63% of videos with the highest click-through rate (CTR) have their key message in the first few seconds of the video.

20. Analyze Your Performance and Adjust  

Use TikTok’s analytics to track your average watch time, see which video performs best, and analyze why it succeeded. Was it the content type, posting time, or use of trending audio? Learn from your successful posts and tweak underperforming ones to refine your approach for a better chance at going viral.

30 Best Content Ideas for Going Viral on TikTok

TikTok is all about creativity, and there are endless ways to express yourself on the platform. One of the best ways to get started is by joining a trend or challenge. Not only will this spark your creativity, but it can also help you get discovered on TikTok Trending Content Ideas.

1. Join a Viral Challenge 

Browse TikTok's "Discover" page for trending challenges, whether it's a dance, a reaction challenge, or a funny trend. Participate and put your unique spin on it to stand out.

2. Test a Viral Hack 

Find a viral life hack (e.g., folding clothes quickly, an incredible food hack, or a time-saving trick) and try it out. React to whether it works or fails.

3. Lip-Sync to Popular Sounds 

Choose a trending TikTok sound or famous dialogue and act it out dramatically or humorously.

4. Create a Reaction Video 

Use TikTok's "Stitch" or "Duet" feature to react to a viral video with your thoughts, humor, or a fresh take.

5. Try an Optical Illusion or Magic Trick 

Record yourself attempting an illusion, a simple magic trick, or an interesting perspective shift. 

6. How-To Tutorials 

Teach valuable something, such as "How to edit TikTok videos," "How to pose for pictures," or "How to make your TikTok go viral."

7. Behind-the-Scenes of Your Work 

Show how you create content, run your business, or produce art/music. Give your audience an exclusive look at your process.

8. Quick Productivity Tips 

Share a simple yet effective tip for better productivity, such as "How to wake up early" or "3 hacks to stop procrastinating."

9. Myth Busting 

Take a widespread belief in your niche and debunk or prove it with real-life examples or experiments.

10. Life Advice Series 

Share a valuable lesson you've learned, such as "What I wish I knew in my 20s" or "A piece of advice that changed my life." Lifestyle & Personal Content 

11. Day in My Life Vlog 

Film your daily routine, including morning coffee, workouts, sessions, and fun activities. Make it aesthetic or relatable.

12. Morning/Night Routine 

Share your self-care, skincare, or productivity habits. Show how you prepare for a successful day or wind down at night.

13. Get Ready with Me (GRWM) 

Film yourself getting ready for an event, school, work, or a party while discussing a topic with your audience.

14. What's in My Bag? 

Show what you carry in my bag daily and explain why. This could be for school, travel, gym, or work.

15. Room Makeover or Desk Setup Tour 

Film a before-and-after transformation of your room, workspace, or cozy aesthetic corner. Fun & Entertaining Content 

16. Comedy Skits & POVs 

Create a funny skit about everyday situations, such as "POV: You just woke up late for school" or "Types of people at the gym."

17. Recreate Old Pictures 

Find a childhood or old picture and recreate it in the present day with the same poses, outfits, and expressions.

18. Text-to-Speech Funny Stories 

Use TikTok's text-to-speech feature to tell a funny or relatable story.

19. Duet a Funny TikTok Video 

Find a hilarious TikTok and record your reaction side by side.

20. Pet Content 

Show off your pet's funny habits, reactions, or an adorable routine (e.g., "A day in the life of my dog/cat"). Food & DIY Content 

21. Easy Recipe Demonstration 

Cook or bake something simple and aesthetic, like a 2-minute mug cake or trending food hacks (e.g., cloud bread, baked feta pasta).

22. Food Review or Taste Test 

Try a new or weird food combination (e.g., "Does ketchup on Oreos actually taste good?") and give your honest review.

23. Make a DIY Product 

Show a step-by-step guide on making homemade items like candles, jewelry, or self-care products.

24. Satisfying Cutting or ASMR Content 

Record slow-motion cutting of soap, fruits, or kinetic sand with satisfying sounds.

25. Grocery Shopping Haul 

Show what you bought from the store and why, with an aesthetic or humorous touch. Fitness & Self-Improvement 

26. Workout Routine 

Share your simple home workout routine, such as "5-minute abs" or "Lazy person's workout."

27. Glow-Up Transformation 

Post a before-and-after montage of a fitness, beauty, or self-care glow-up.

28. Dance Tutorial or Trend 

Teach a trending TikTok dance step by step or perform a new choreography.

29. Healthy Eating Tips 

Show easy swaps for a healthier diet (e.g., "Try this instead of chips!").

30. Self-Care Sunday Routine 

Film a relaxing routine for self-care, including skincare, journaling, and tea-making.

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• How to Find TikTok Trends Early
• Hottest TikTok Trends

Go Viral with Virlo's Virality Analysis Tool

TikTok is an incredibly trend-driven platform. Users get bored quickly and jump from trend to trend in a matter of days, so staying on your toes and creating content that aligns with current TikTok trends is crucial.  Virlo helps you do precisely that by analyzing the latest TikTok trends and breaking down exactly what makes them tick so you can create content that goes viral. 

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