How to Grow on TikTok in 2024

Are you a small creator wondering how to grow on TikTok in 2024? You’re not alone. As someone who’s been on this journey since 2021, I understand the challenges of TikTok growth. When I decided to become a full-time content creator in June 2022, I had just 2,000 TikTok followers. My growth was slow due to inconsistency, but I’ve learned valuable lessons along the way.

Here’s the truth: learning how to grow on TikTok isn’t just about mastering the latest dance trend or using popular hashtags. The key to explosive growth lies in understanding what TikTok truly is: a live streaming app, a shopping network, and a powerful search engine all rolled into one.

When was the last time you treated TikTok like a search engine? Or considered how live streaming could catapult your growth? These are the questions you need to ask if you want to know how to grow on TikTok effectively.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my TikTok growth strategy that helped me go from 17.3k followers in March 2024 to 28k in July 2024.

We’ll explore how to grow on TikTok by optimizing your account for search, harnessing the power of keywords, and tapping into the platform’s e-commerce potential.

Whether you’re a “working mom,” a “beauty creator over 40,” or a “20-something entrepreneur,” I’ll show you how to make TikTok’s algorithm work for you and accelerate your growth.

So, if you’re ready to transform your TikTok presence and finally grow on TikTok, you’re in the right place. Let’s get it.

Understanding TikTok’s Unique Features

TikTok as a Search Engine

How to Grow on TikTok using SEO

TikTok is not just a platform for short, engaging videos; it’s also a powerful search engine. Users frequently search for specific content, trends, and creators, making SEO (Search Engine Optimization) crucial for increasing visibility and attracting new followers. Here’s why SEO matters on TikTok:

• Increased Discoverability: Optimizing your content with relevant keywords helps it appear in search results, making it easier for users to find you.
  
• Algorithm Boost: TikTok’s algorithm favors content that is well-optimized with keywords, increasing the chances of your videos being recommended on the For You Page (FYP).
  
• Targeted Audience: Proper SEO ensures that your content reaches the right audience who are interested in your niche, leading to higher engagement and follower growth.

How to grow on TikTok Using Keywords

Using keywords effectively on TikTok involves more than just throwing popular terms into your captions. Here’s how you can strategically incorporate keywords to boost your SEO:

• Keyword Research: Start by researching what keywords are popular within your niche. Tools like TikTok’s search bar, Google Trends, and keyword research tools can help you identify high-traffic terms.
  
• Optimizing Captions: Include relevant keywords naturally in your video captions. Avoid keyword stuffing; instead, craft engaging captions that make sense and include your keywords seamlessly.
  
• Hashtags: Use a mix of broad and niche-specific hashtags. Broad hashtags increase the chances of your content being discovered by a wider audience, while niche-specific hashtags target a more engaged and relevant audience.
  
• Profile Optimization: Incorporate keywords in your profile bio. This helps TikTok understand your content’s focus and recommend your profile to users interested in that topic.
  
• Content Creation: Create content around trending keywords and phrases. For example, if “DIY home decor” is trending, making videos that cater to this keyword can help you attract more viewers interested in that topic.
  
• Engagement: Respond to comments and questions using relevant keywords. This not only boosts your video’s engagement but also reinforces the keywords associated with your content.

Leveraging TikTok’s Creator Search Insights

TikTok’s Creator Search Insights is a powerful feature that provides valuable data to help creators optimize their content and grow their audience. Here’s how you can use this feature to enhance your SEO strategy:

• Understanding Audience Preferences: Creator Search Insights allows you to see what your target audience is searching for, giving you a clearer understanding of their interests and preferences. Use this data to tailor your content to meet their needs.
  
• Identifying Trending Keywords: This feature highlights trending keywords and topics within your niche. By creating content around these trends, you can increase your chances of being discovered by a broader audience.
  
• Analyzing Competitors: With Creator Search Insights, you can analyze what keywords and content are working well for your competitors. This can provide inspiration and help you identify gaps in your own content strategy.
  
• Optimizing Content Strategy: Use the insights gained from this feature to refine your content strategy. Focus on creating videos that incorporate high-performing keywords and topics, and adjust your approach based on the data.

By treating TikTok as a search engine and utilizing the powerful data from Creator Search Insights, you can significantly enhance your discoverability and attract a larger, more engaged audience. This is SO important for anyone looking to learn how to grow on TikTok and not just in the short term, but in the longterm as well. But optimizing your content for search is just one part of the equation. Another powerful tool at your disposal is live streaming, which can further boost your engagement and growth.

How to grow on TikTok using Live Streaming

When I started doing regular live streams, I noticed a significant increase in my follower count. It allowed me to connect with my audience (you) on a deeper level, answering your questions in real-time and showcasing my personality beyond my usual content. This strategy was crucial in my TikTok growth journey as a small creator.

Remember, live streaming on TikTok offers unique opportunities to connect with your audience in real-time, build a stronger community, and enhance your content’s reach.

Here are some key benefits:

• Real-Time Engagement: Live streaming allows you to interact with your audience in real-time, responding to comments and questions instantly. This immediate interaction helps build a stronger connection with your current followers and new followers.
  
• Increased Visibility: TikTok often promotes live streams on the For You Page, giving your content a chance to reach a wider audience. This increased visibility can lead to more followers and higher engagement.
  
• Authenticity and Trust: Live streaming provides a more authentic and unfiltered way to connect with your audience. This authenticity can help build trust and loyalty among your followers. The connection on live is unmatched, this is where you can convert someone on the fence of purchasing one of your products, this is where they get too know you, like you, and trust you.
  
• Monetization Opportunities: Through TikTok’s live gifting feature, viewers can send virtual gifts that can be converted into real money. This offers a direct way to monetize your content and incentivize more frequent live sessions. Now tiktok takes 50% of your earnings so to really bank on this you’d need to livestreaming for quite a while and/or have a large amount of folks tune in. I find whats best is promoting your digital products or services and offering a code on live to get the most bang for your livestreaming buck.
  
• Content Versatility: Live streaming offers a different type of content that can complement your pre-recorded videos. You can use it for Q&A sessions, behind-the-scenes looks, live tutorials, and more, providing variety to your followers. I recommend going live after you post to get more traction and to amplify your latest post. Tiktok pushes out your livestream to new folks so its by far one of the best ways to get in front of NEW eyes, and typically those who tune in are your target demographic, which honestly is priceless. The more you can get in front of your target audince the better off you are as a content creator.

Tips for Successful Live Streams

To make the most of live streaming and learn how to grow on TikTok through this feature, follow these tips:

• Plan Ahead: Before going live, have a clear plan of what you want to achieve. Outline your main points, decide on the structure of your stream, and prepare any necessary materials or props. You can keep it casual, especially if you are nervous. I recommend doing someone on live and having a list of questions you can answer – the questions should be relevant to A your most recent post, what’s going on in your target audience’s life right now, or something you are an expert in.
  
• Promote Your Live Stream: Let your followers know in advance when you will be going live. Use your other social media channels to promote the live stream and create anticipation. Bonus points if you have a weekly standing livestream date, put it in your bio if you have room or use the livestream scheduling feature.
  
• Engage with Your Audience: Interact with your viewers by acknowledging their comments, answering their questions, and responding to their feedback. This interaction makes viewers feel valued and encourages them to stay engaged.
  
• Maintain a Consistent Schedule: Regular live streams help build a loyal audience. Choose specific days and times for your live sessions so your followers know when to expect you.
  
• Provide Value: Make sure your live streams offer valuable content. Whether it’s entertainment, education, or inspiration, providing value will keep your audience coming back for more.
  
• Use Good Lighting and Audio: Ensure your live stream is of high quality by using good lighting and clear audio. This helps keep your audience engaged and enhances their viewing experience.
  
• Stay Authentic: Be yourself during live streams. Authenticity resonates with viewers and helps build a genuine connection with your audience.

By going live, you get to show your true self and interact with your audience in a meaningful way. It’s a great tool for growth! Up next, we’ll look at how you can use TikTok’s e-commerce features to monetize your content and keep that growth momentum going.

How to grow on TikTok Using TikTok Shop

TikTok isn’t just for entertainment; it’s rapidly becoming a major player in e-commerce. With the introduction of TikTok Shop and other shopping features, creators now have more opportunities than ever to monetize their content. Here’s how you can leverage these features to maximize your earnings and engage your audience effectively.

TikTok Shop

TikTok Shop allows users to buy products directly through the platform, streamlining the shopping experience. As a creator, you can join the TikTok Shop affiliate program, promoting products and earning commissions for each sale made through your content. Here’s how to get started:

1. Create a TikTok Shop Affiliate Account: Sign up as an affiliate, allowing you to promote any products available on TikTok Shop and earn commissions on sales.
   
2. Find Viral Products: Use TikTok’s product marketplace and other tools to discover trending and high-demand products. Browse TikTok Shop’s trending sections or product lists to identify popular items. Observe what products your competitors or similar influencers are featuring.

When selecting products, ensure they are relevant to your target audience unless your primary goal is to run a product-focused TikTok account. Staying relevant will help maintain your audience’s trust and engagement.

Integrating Shopping Features in Your Content

Incorporating shopping features into your TikTok content can significantly enhance your e-commerce success. Here are some strategies:

1. Add Product Links: Utilize TikTok’s feature to add product links directly to your videos. When viewers click on these links, they can purchase the products immediately, and you earn a commission.
   
2. Utilize Livestreams: Livestreams are a powerful tool for selling products. You can showcase products in real-time, answer audience questions, and provide live demonstrations. Link your TikTok Shop products to your livestreams to facilitate easy purchases.

Storytelling with Shoppable Content

Creating compelling stories around your products can make your content more engaging and drive sales. Here are some tips:

1. Identify the Problem: Start by identifying a problem your audience might have. This creates a connection and sets the stage for your product as the solution.
   
2. Explain the Solution: Detail how your product solves the problem. Use real-life examples or testimonials to enhance credibility.
   
3. Showcase Benefits: Highlight the key benefits and features of the product. Demonstrate how it can improve the user’s life or solve their problem.
   
4. Create Engaging Content: Produce videos that effectively showcase the benefits of the products you are promoting.
   • Start with a Question or Problem: Pose a question or state a problem that your product solves. This immediately engages viewers and makes them curious about the solution.
   • Real-Life Scenarios: Show the product being used in everyday situations. This helps viewers visualize how it fits into their own lives.
   • Before and After: Highlight the difference the product makes by showing before and after scenarios.
   • Call to Action: Encourage your viewers to take action, whether it’s clicking on the product link, joining your livestream, or making a purchase. Make your call to action clear and compelling.

Engagement Metrics That Matter for Growing on TikTok

During my journey from 17.3k to 28k followers, I noticed that posts with high save and share rates performed exceptionally well. I started focusing on creating content that provided tangible value, encouraging saves, and was entertaining enough to share. This shift in strategy significantly contributed to my growth as a small creator on TikTok.

Why Comments, Saves, and Shares Matter

1. Comments
   • Direct Feedback: Comments offer valuable insights into what your audience thinks about your content and products. They help generate new content ideas based on the questions and feedback you receive. Personally, I often find my next content inspiration in the comments and questions you leave on my posts and during live sessions.
     
   • Community Building: A high number of comments fosters a sense of community and encourages more interaction. Creating a series or thematic content can turn followers into community members, building stronger connections with your audience.
     
   • Algorithm Boost: Engagement through comments signals to TikTok that your content is relevant and engaging, which can increase its visibility on the platform.
     
2. Saves
   • Content Value: When viewers save your videos, it indicates they find the content valuable enough to revisit later. Content that provides tips, tutorials, or step-by-step guides tends to be saved more frequently.
     
   • Long-Term Engagement: Saves contribute to long-term engagement, as users are more likely to return to valuable content or product recommendations.
     
   • Algorithm Favor: TikTok’s algorithm often favors videos with high save rates, pushing them to a larger audience.
     
3. Shares
   • Wider Reach: Shares help your content reach a broader audience, increasing its potential for virality. Content types that perform well in shares include inspirational videos, personal stories, before-and-after transformations, and livestreams.
     
   • Social Proof: Frequently shared content is perceived as more valuable or entertaining, which can attract new followers.
     
   • Brand Awareness: High share rates can significantly enhance your visibility and credibility on TikTok.

Tips to Increase Comments, Saves, and Shares

1. Create Compelling Content
   • Address Pain Points: Focus on crafting content that addresses common problems or needs of your target audience. Providing solutions or valuable tips encourages engagement. Shift your focus from creating content about “I” to content that is about “you” – your audience’s needs and interests.
     
   • Storytelling: Employ engaging storytelling techniques to make your content memorable and relatable. Think about what resonates with you as a viewer and aim to evoke similar responses in your audience. Analyze what makes you comment, save, and share other creators’ videos and apply those elements to your content.
     
   • Visual Appeal: Invest in high-quality visuals and editing. A well-produced video is more likely to catch viewers’ attention and prompt them to engage.
     
2. Encourage Interaction
   • Ask Questions: Prompt viewers to share their thoughts or opinions by asking questions in your video or caption. This not only encourages comments but also fosters a sense of conversation. Make your viewers feel like they are participating in a dialogue.
     
   • Call to Action (CTA): Use clear CTAs to encourage viewers to comment, save, or share. For example, ask viewers to comment on their favorite feature or save the video for future reference. Make sure your captions guide viewers on what you want them to do.
     
   • Engage with Your Audience: Comment on your own posts to stimulate conversation and encourage viewers to engage. As comments start coming in, actively participate in the discussions to build a loyal community.
     
3. Offer Value
   • Educational Content: Produce informative videos that provide practical value, such as how-tos, tips, or product reviews. Content that helps viewers solve problems or learn something new is more likely to be saved and shared.
     
   • Exclusive Deals: Feature exclusive discounts or promotions in your videos. Viewers are more inclined to save and share content that includes special offers or incentives.
     
4. Optimize Posting Times
   • Analyze Insights: Use TikTok’s analytics to determine when your audience is most active. Remember that TikTok’s suggested posting times are in UTC, so convert them to your local time zone. Posting during peak activity periods can increase engagement.
     
   • Consistency: Stick to a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and aware of new content. Consistency is key – I’ve experienced significant growth by posting six times a week, going from a stagnated 17k followers to 28k in less than three weeks.

Recap: How to Grow on TikTok

Growing on TikTok as a small creator in 2024 requires a multi-faceted approach. By treating TikTok as a search engine, live streaming platform, and e-commerce tool, you can maximize your visibility and engagement. Remember, consistency is key – my own growth from 17,300 to 28,000 followers in just a few months is testament to this.

To implement an effective TikTok growth strategy:

1. Optimize your content for search using relevant keywords
2. Engage with your audience through regular live streams
3. Leverage TikTok’s e-commerce features to monetize your content
4. Focus on creating content that encourages comments, saves, and shares

Keep in mind – you don’t need to leverage or “master” all of these strategies at once, take your time, but show up, and study your analytics. Most importantly, stay authentic and provide value to your audience. TikTok growth for small creators is possible with dedication and the right strategies.

Remember, every big creator started small – your breakthrough could be just one video away!