Key Takeaways:
Understand the importance of TikTok SEO.
Gain a deeper knowledge of how TikTok’s algorithm filters content and shows it to users.
Equip yourself with keyword research tools and TikTok keyword tips to ace your TikTok game.
According to a recent Adobe survey, over 2 in 5 Americans use TikTok as a search engine. And nearly 1 in 10 Gen Zers prefer TikTok as a search engine over Google. TikTok currently has more than one billion active users globally. This platform is not just popular but a critical space for marketers who aim to enhance visibility and engage with a younger audience effectively.
Creating engaging video content is a powerful way to connect with your audience on TikTok. But without the right search engine optimization (SEO) tactics, you might miss the mark. Despite your efforts, your videos may not reach the intended viewers if they aren’t optimized to appear where your target audience is actively searching. Let’s explore how to effectively use TikTok SEO, so your content not only reaches but resonates with the right people.
“Over 2 in 5 Americans use TikTok as a search engine. And nearly 1 in 10 Gen Zers prefer TikTok as a search engine over Google.”
– 2024 Adobe Survey
Understanding the For You Page and TikTok’s Algorithm
To ensure your videos hit the mark, especially on TikTok’s For You Page (FYP) and in search results, you must first understand how the platform works. The FYP serves as TikTok’s dynamic homepage, showcasing a personalized stream of videos influenced by user interactions such as views, likes, and comments. This algorithm-driven approach tailors content to potentially engage and entertain viewers based on their behaviors.
One thing we love about TikTok is that its unique algorithm levels the playing field. It provides both new and experienced creators equal chances to appear on the FYP, without favoring those with large followings. (That’s good news for small businesses or emerging startups!)
“TikTok’s unique algorithm levels the playing field. It provides both new and experienced creators equal chances to appear on the FYP, without favoring those with large followings.”
– Technology Therapy® Group
How TikTok Recommends Content
TikTok tailors content recommendations using a sophisticated system that considers several key factors to determine the potential relevance and appeal of content to each user. These factors include user interactions, the specifics of the content itself, and demographic information.
The platform uses a recommender system to sift through a vast array of content to predict what might catch your interest. For instance, if User A has enjoyed videos 1, 2, and 3, and User B likes videos 1 through 5, the system might suggest videos 4 and 5 to User A based on the overlapping interests. This personalized approach ensures that each user’s experience remains unique and tailored to their individual preferences, whether on the FYP, following feed, friends’ activity, or during live streams. Though, some content may appear universally across various feeds.
3 Keyword Research Tools You Should Be Using
Like with traditional search engines, keywords are crucial for TikTok SEO. Here are three keyword research tools, so your content reaches the right audience:
1. Conventional SEO Tools
We recommend using Google Ads’ Keyword Planner to identify popular and relevant terms. However, keep in mind that these tools cater to Google’s search environment. It’s essential to adapt these keywords to match the unique behaviors and trends on TikTok.
2. TikTok’s Keyword Insights Tool
This tool offers a deep dive into the keywords that resonate within the platform.
3. TikTok’s Search Bar
Leverage the search bar within the platform to explore how TikTok suggests related terms. Input your keywords and make note of the terms that auto-populate here.
How to Use Keywords on TikTok
Effectively using keywords on TikTok will enhance your content’s visibility. Here are five strategic places to integrate keywords for maximum impact:
1. Verbal Audio
Seamlessly weave keywords into your dialogue or narration. This helps TikTok’s algorithms grasp the context of your content, making it more likely to appear in relevant searches.
2. Text Overlays
Use text overlays on your videos to highlight important keywords. This visual element captures attention and reinforces your message, which will improve both viewer comprehension and SEO.
3. Audio Transcription
When your video’s audio is transcribed, include keywords to ensure they are indexed by TikTok. Speak clearly to help the platform accurately transcribe and recognize these keywords.
4. Video Captions
Craft your video captions to include keywords naturally. These captions are critical as they are directly searchable and heavily weighed by TikTok’s search algorithms.
5. Hashtags
Select hashtags that are not only trending but also relevant to your content. You can also incorporate keywords into your hashtags to categorize your videos within TikTok’s ecosystem. This will increase the likelihood that it will be discovered by users who are interested in similar topics.
Take Advantage of Trending Audio for Enhanced Engagement
The right audio track can significantly elevate your content’s reach on TikTok. Trending audio often features prominently on For You Pages, providing a greater chance for your videos to go viral. However, it’s crucial that the audio you use is cleared for copyright to avoid potential issues. If you’re a TikTok Creator, leverage TikTik Studio to ensure you’re in compliance with copyright laws.
Engage with Your Audience
TikTok engagement goes beyond simply tallying likes and comments. It’s about building community. Every comment on your video opens the door to deeper interactions. Use these moments not only to respond but to initiate meaningful conversations that hold your viewers’ attention. These interactions also assist with brand positioning by establishing and re-enforcing your brand’s voice and personality. By nurturing a dynamic and interactive community, you guarantee that your content resonates with your target buyers.
One side bonus of actively engaging with your audience on the platform is that it will influence how TikTok’s algorithm prioritizes and displays your content. A lively interaction rate signals to TikTok that your content is compelling, boosting its chances of appearing on more FYPs.
“Actively engaging with your audience on the platform influences how TikTok’s algorithm prioritizes and displays your content. A lively interaction rate signals to TikTok that your content is compelling, boosting its chances of appearing on more For You Pages.”
– Technology Therapy® Group
Going Beyond TikTok SEO
While there’s no one-size-fits-all strategy for TikTok SEO, starting with targeted keywords, engaging actively with your audience, and keeping up with trending audio are excellent steps toward optimizing your TikTok presence. Like with any part of digital marketing, however, sometimes you need a little guidance along the way. Don’t hesitate to reach out to TTG if you need any support with your TikTok content and/or SEO strategy, or if you want some one-on-one TikTok training.
Train Your Way to TikTok Success
Invest in a personalized training session to jumpstart your TikTok knowledge. Get ready for better results when it comes to TikTok results and engagement rates!
