6 Methods for TikTok Trend Discovery

You scroll through TikTok, watching short videos that capture your interest. You pause to read the captions. They reveal the clips' creators used a trending sound or theme to capture attention. You think, "That's cool, but how do I find out about these trends?" If you’ve had this thought, you’re not alone. When brainstorming TikTok Content Ideas, discovering trends is one of the best ways to find inspiration. This guide will uncover the importance of TikTok trend discovery, how to uncover viral trends, and how to use them to create engaging TikTok videos that boost your visibility on the platform.

An excellent tool for uncovering TikTok trends is Virlo's virality analysis tool. This tool helps you identify trends and discover videos that are going viral right now, so you can create your own engaging TikTok shorts that align with your goals.

Table of Contents

• Benefits of Using TikTok Trends

• 6 Methods for TikTok Trend Discovery

• 9 Tips to Go Viral on TikTok

• 20 Best Niches for TikTok Influencers

• Go Viral with Virlo's Virality Analysis Tool

Benefits of Using TikTok Trends

1. Boost Your Brand Recognition and Go Viral on TikTok 

There’s no doubt that TikTok is the hottest social media platform today. With over 1 billion monthly users, your target audience is likely on TikTok. Using TikTok trends allows you to connect with your niche, thereby increasing brand visibility and awareness. When you join TikTok trends, you create content that people actively consume and engage with, helping your PR campaign reach a wider audience. Your brand can even go viral if you have the power to keep up with trends!

2. Engage Users on TikTok to Build Relationships 

The TikTok platform thrives on authenticity, fostering genuine connections based on shared interests. When done strategically without compromising authenticity and value, you can effectively engage with the right people and foster positive stakeholder relationships. 

3. Create Authentic Content to Connect With Younger Audiences 

Did you know that TikTok is the go-to search engine for Gen Z? About 40% of Gen Zers prefer to use this channel (along with Instagram) instead of Google. Likewise, the highest number of TikTok users is the age group between 18 to 34 years old, comprising nearly 40% of the total users. Connect with them! 

4. Get User Feedback and Market Insights on TikTok 

TikTok has a data analytics feature that allows you to get user insights and analyze data sets. This feature is helpful for your PR campaigns, enabling you to monitor and measure your performance, particularly your engagement rate on the platform. Leverage social media analytics!

6 Methods for TikTok Trend Discovery

1. Use Virlo to Discover TikTok 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 and video combinations that help your content stand out in today's fast-paced 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 not just when to post, but what combinations of elements are currently driving engagement. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo helps you navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo's virality analysis tool. 

2. Use TikTok’s Built-In Tools to Find Trending Content 

TikTok has a lot of features that help users find trending content. You can use the TikTok Creative Center to analyze what’s working for popular creators and discover emerging trends. For example, the Top Creators section lets you monitor high-performing accounts to uncover their content patterns. From there, you can replicate their strategies or combine their ideas with your own for unique content.

The Trending Videos section is also helpful for discovering viral videos that can inspire your content. You can even look for collaboration opportunities by checking the creators involved in these videos. Hashtags are another valuable tool for identifying popular themes. You can track trending hashtags (e.g., #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt) to uncover the latest fads on TikTok. Additionally, the Creative Center lets you explore trending audio clips and songs in the “Songs” tab for content inspiration. 

3. Use Analytics Tools for Real-Time Insights

Analytics tools can help you find trending TikTok content in real time. For example, Shoplus provides hourly updates on trending products and viral content. You can even filter results by country, category, and price to refine your product trend analysis. Socialinsider is another valuable tool to track historical data and engagement metrics to identify long-term trends. This can help you focus on more sustainable content ideas rather than fleeting fads. TikBuddy also identifies influencers and monitors campaign performance in real-time to help you discover relevant trends. 

4. Analyze Hashtags and Product Trends

Hashtags are a great way to find trending TikTok niches. For example, using #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt in your posts can help you explore trending products and consumer preferences. You can also use product-specific tools like Shoplus’s “Top Sales” feature, which ranks products by sales data and commission potential. This provides a clear understanding of what’s trending on TikTok and can help you identify content opportunities to target your audience effectively. 

5. Study Past Trends for Patterns

Looking at past TikTok trends can help you identify patterns for future content. For example, the “Bird’s Eye View” trend used unique camera angles and specific audio to drive engagement. Similarly, the “Bad Idea” trend leveraged Olivia Rodrigo’s song for relatable decision-making content. Trends like these often target specific audience demographics. For instance, many TikTok trends focus on Gen Z and Millennials, as they dominate TikTok usage. 

6. Monitor Competitors and Influencers

Keeping tabs on your competitors and relevant influencers can help you discover trends on TikTok. Start by analyzing your competitors’ content strategies. This will help you identify any emerging trends they are targeting so you can develop your unique approach. You can also look for collaboration opportunities with influencers to help you reach their audience. Use tools like TikBuddy to identify creators with genuine engagement for partnerships. 

Discover How Virlo Can Help You Go Viral on TikTok

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 and video combinations that help your content stand out in today's fast-paced social environment. 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 not just when to post, but what combinations of elements are currently driving engagement. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo helps you navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo's virality analysis tool. 

Related Reading

• Times to Post on TikTok
• Top TikTok Influencers
• Popular Hashtags on TikTok

9 Tips to Go Viral on TikTok

1. Use Virlo to Find Viral 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 and video combinations that help your content stand out in today's fast-paced social environment. 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 not just when to post, but what combinations of elements are currently driving engagement. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo helps you navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo's virality analysis tool. 

2. Learn How Videos Go Viral on TikTok

First off, what does going viral mean? For your video to be considered viral on TikTok, it needs to have racked up hundreds of thousands of views. The trick is to get on the right side of TikTok’s algorithm, which is designed to show people videos they’ll want to watch. If your content makes TikTok’s algorithm happy, it’ll be pushed to a worldwide audience through the For You Page. Sure, you're up against millions of creators all trying to get the attention of TikTok's billion-plus global audience.

But if you want your content to go viral and be shared far and wide, getting your video on TikTok’s For You Page is your best shot! Videos featured here typically tap into popular culture, meme-worthy moments, or popular songs. Just look at how the Wednesday Dance or the wiggle walk trend inspired by Aristocats appear on your feed time and time again. As you’ll see, there's more than one way to pop up on people's feeds. Let’s explore some of the most effective ways to go viral on TikTok.

3. Use Trending Songs and Sounds on TikTok

Music plays a significant role on TikTok. After all, it started as a lip-syncing app called musical.ly before growing into a global beast with the power to catapult hits to worldwide stardom. Throwing songs on TikTok made up 13 of the 14 Billboard Hot 100 number ones in 2022. But how does using a popular song boost your content? Featuring a trending song or sound in your video helps TikTok group it with similar content.

If people are enjoying other videos that are soundtracked with the same song, TikTok is more likely to share your clip with them too. Take Little Girl Gone by CHINCHILLA as an example. The song has inspired trends relating to both fantasy fiction and empowering women. If you create content in a similar niche and soundtrack it with that song, you’re more likely to appear in the For You feed of people enjoying those trends. It’s an effective way of finding a new audience!

4. Discover How to Find Trending Sounds on TikTok

Finding the freshest trending sounds on TikTok is a breeze. When you tap the "+" icon to create a new video, head to Add Sounds. Under the Playlist, you’ll find a selection called TikTok Viral. From here, you’ll see all the top trending songs, which you can put straight into your video. Another way to find trending sounds is to keep an ear out for songs you hear on other TikTok videos. Like what you hear? Simply tap on the title in the bottom left of the screen to add it to your favorite sounds and explore other videos using it.

5. Keep Videos Punchy

You want TikTok to know people are finding your videos addictive to watch. Which means there’s no time for long, drawn-out cuts and rambling monologues. Get to the point and cut out any part of your video that gives viewers a reason to scroll past it.

6. Master the Edit

As well as keeping your content super punchy, you want to keep people hooked by making the most of TikTok’s editing tools. Add eye-catching effects, choose a standout soundtrack, and get creative with the edit. Use TikTok’s features to bring your video to life and keep people watching. Take a look at Yoselan's creepy clown clips for inspiration. He uses snappy shots and effects to keep the audience engaged right through his videos.

7. Encourage Interaction

TikTok has informed us that user interactions play a role in determining which videos it’ll share with a broader audience. Encourage viewers to hit the like button if they’re enjoying your video, or consider asking people to drop a comment. By asking your audience what they’d like to see next from you, you can even get fresh ideas for your next video. For example, Australian chef Andy Cook often asks his followers to suggest recipes for him to try out.

8. Aim for Regular Posts

The more content you post, the higher your odds of producing a viral hit. TikTok doesn't explicitly suggest this will enhance your chances of a video's success, but by posting regularly, you’ll have more chances to hit it big. It’s worth noting that some TikTok videos don't skyrocket immediately. On average, 55% of views come in the first week, so a decent chunk of views will come later. Which means there's always the possibility one of your earlier videos could become a sleeper hit.

9. Take Part in TikTok Trends

Jumping on a TikTok trend is one of the most effective ways to get your content shared far and wide. As a trend gains popularity, more TikTok users begin to search for it, prompting the algorithm to deliver related videos into viewers' For You feeds. Keeping your finger on the pulse of what’s trending can give you inspiration for new videos and introduce you to a bigger audience. But how do you find out what’s trending?

Related Reading

• How Does the TikTok Algorithm Work
• How to Get More Views on TikTok
• How Long Does It Take for a TikTok to Go Viral
• TikTok Keyword Research
• TikTok Trend Discovery

20 Best Niches for TikTok Influencers

1. Dangerous Sea Videos: Enter the Murky Waters of TikTok’s Newest Niche

Dangerous sea videos are making waves on TikTok. Creators are compiling clips of ocean disasters and dangerous sea creatures, which are racking up millions of views. With enough traction, this niche can earn you upwards of $100,000 monthly. To get started, use trending SEO topics to guide your content. I recommend sourcing viral clips from platforms like YouTube or Instagram and creating compelling one-minute videos.

2. Travel: Discover Destinations Without Leaving Your Home

Travel is a perennially popular niche on TikTok, where stunning videos of beautiful destinations can garner millions of views. To get started, use platforms like Pexels for high-quality, copyright-free footage to pique viewers' interest. You can enhance engagement by including stories about each destination, such as hidden gems or travel tips that offer unique insights.

3. Men's Self-Improvement: Create Content That Helps Others 

Men's self-improvement is a trending niche on TikTok. Short and punchy how-to videos on skincare routines, gym workouts, and fashion tips effectively captivate audiences. Including motivational quotes can add an element of relatability, enticing viewers to follow your journey.

4. Football/Soccer Stories: Go Beyond the Game 

Focusing on storytelling around famous footballers rather than just highlight reels can differentiate your content. Conduct research to present engaging narratives about well-known players, which can attract even those who aren't soccer fans.

5. Top Three Lists: Short, Engaging, and Informative 

Top three videos covering diverse topics, like scary facts or rare animals, appeal broadly and can be engaging. Utilize a compelling hook and thorough research to craft concise, informative content that maximizes viewer retention.

6. Viral Trend Commentary: Share Your Thoughts on What’s Trending 

Reacting to viral trends is another great niche. By sharing your genuine reactions to trending topics, you can quickly engage a large audience. Showcase your take on popular subjects or viral videos for enhanced authenticity.

7. AI Conversations: Use AI Tools to Create Unique Content 

Creating AI conversation videos can be a novel approach. Generate absurd dialogues between public figures using tools like ChatGPT, and utilize AI voices for a humorous twist that entertains viewers.

8. Funny History: Make Your Audience Laugh While Educating Them 

Though oversaturated, adding a humorous twist to historical facts by using funny captions can yield impressive view counts. Differentiating from the norm can revive interest.

9. Celebrity Guessing Games: Engage Your Audience with Unique Games

Create engaging guess-the-celebrity games showcasing partial images of celebrities. Generate curiosity and challenge viewers to participate, potentially leading to viral hits.

10. True Crime Stories: Explore the Dark Side of Humanity 

True crime remains a captivating niche. Find compelling stories on platforms like YouTube or Reddit and recreate them with engaging scripts and AI voiceovers to capture viewer interest.

11. Fake Text Scenarios: Combine Realistic Texts with Visuals for Unique Videos

Generate fake text scenarios using AI tools to create engaging stories. Combine this with appropriate visuals for a unique spin on popular formats.

12. Future Predictions: Speculate on What’s to Come 

Create content around future predictions, especially those intertwined with intriguing conspiracy theories. This approach can spark conversations and draw in viewers.

13. Guess the Outfit: Challenge Your Audience with Unique Formats 

Show celebrities with obscured faces and challenge viewers to guess who they are based on their outfits. This interactive format is not only engaging but can also go viral.

14. FIFA Card Challenges: Combine Your Passions to Build a Following 

While short FIFA card challenge videos may not qualify for monetization initially, they can quickly help you gain followers. Transition to related quiz content once you build an audience.

15. AI-generated Commercials: Leverage AI for Creative Content 

There is high potential in creating AI-generated commercials. By leveraging humor and celebrity-inspired content, you can attract viewers interested in AI creativity.

16. Marble Racing: Enjoy the Thrill of the Race 

Combine marble racing with popular songs to create engaging visual content. This niche has proven successful for many creators, offering the promise of growth and engagement.

17. Captivating Images from Reddit: Move Beyond Traditional Storytelling 

Instead of traditional stories, showcasing captivating images found on Reddit can attract attention. Focus on themes, photo challenges, and popular subreddits to enhance viewership.

18. AI Showcases: Explore the World of AI-Generated Images 

Create visual showcases of beloved characters using AI-generated images for curiosity-driven content. This unique approach can lead to high view counts.

19. Dark Comedy: Shine a Light on the Absurd 

A unique twist on historical events or topics can yield entertaining content. Employing dark humor in your narrative can attract attention from diverse demographics.

20. Pranking Scenarios: Use AI to Generate Humorous Content 

Generating pranking scenarios using AI tools and employing fresh ideas can make your content go viral, as viewers are naturally drawn to humor and spontaneity.

Go Viral with Virlo's Virality Analysis Tool

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 and video combinations that help your content stand out in today's fast-paced social environment. 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 not just when to post, but what combinations of elements are currently driving engagement. Whether you're just starting or looking to optimize your existing content, Virlo helps you navigate the ever-changing algorithms to increase your chances of going viral. Go viral with Virlo's virality analysis tool. 

Related Reading

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• How to Increase Engagement on TikTok
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• How to Find TikTok Trends