Viral dances, talent showcases, hilarious skits and pranks – TikTok is renowned for its authentic and creative content. And behind every trending video lies a matrix of code working behind the scenes: the algorithm.

Whether you’re a budding creator or just a curious user, eager to unveil the secrets of this algorithmic magic, you’ve come to the right place.

But what is really an algorithm?

Initially, social platforms closely guarded the secrets of their algorithms. It plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining user attention on social networks and to prevent abuse by spammers, platforms like TikTok have historically kept their algorithmic processes under wraps.

In response to a growing skepticism among users about the transparency of social networks, many platforms have chosen to lift the veil on the fundamental mechanisms of their algorithms. Fortunately, this shift in approach has led to a better understanding of the TikTok recommendation algorithm’s essential components. TikTok itself has disclosed some of the key ranking signals, providing users with insights into the inner workings of the algorithm.

How does Tiktok Algorithm work?

Many say the TikTok algorithm is a bit tricky, but honestly, once you get the hang of what’s going on behind the scenes, it’s not that hard to grasp. Here are some pointers to help you understand the TikTok algorithm better.

For You Page (FYP). At the core of TikTok’s algorithm is the For You Page (FYP). This personalized feed is a result of a complex interplay of user interactions, preferences, and content relevance.

Engagement Metrics. TikTok thrives on engagement. Likes, comments, shares, and follows create a virtual fingerprint that the algorithm uses to understand user preferences. The more engaging your content, the more likely it is to be featured on the FYP. As simple as that!

Watch Time and Completion Rate. Capturing attention is crucial. The goal is to keep your viewers stay on your video and for them to stop scrolling. Videos that hold users’ interest and encourage them to watch till the end are more likely to be promoted. Maximizing watch time and completion rate can significantly boost your content’s visibility.

The Ripple Effect. TikTok’s algorithm loves a good ripple effect. When a video starts gaining traction, the algorithm takes notice and may push it to a broader audience. Going viral often starts with a spark of engagement that fans into a flame. You will never know when will your video be viral but once it did, the next one will be easy.

Now that we’ve covered the basics of algorithms, we’re sure your curiosity is piqued on how to go viral, taking into account the nuances of this algorithm. Fear not! We’ve got some pro-tips for you. While the Milk Bottle Projects team might not be pros at dancing or showcasing talents, but we can at least assist you in this aspect!

Authenticity Matters: Be genuine in your content. TikTok users appreciate authenticity, and the algorithm recognizes it too.

Consistency is Key: Post regularly to keep your audience engaged. The more you contribute to the TikTok ecosystem, the more the algorithm works in your favor.

Jump on Trends: TikTok loves trends. Participate in popular challenges and hop on trending sounds to increase your visibility.

Engage with Your Audience: Respond to comments, create duets, and build a sense of community. The more engagement your videos receive, the more the algorithm boosts your content.

Collaborate with Other Creators: Partnering with other TikTok creators can expose your content to a wider audience. Collaborative efforts, such as duets or joint challenges, can be a powerful way to increase your reach and engagement.

Utilize TikTok Features: Take advantage of TikTok’s features, such as filters, effects, and interactive elements. Staying up-to-date with the latest features can make your content more engaging and shareable.

Use Trending Hashtags Wisely: Incorporate trending hashtags into your captions to increase the discoverability of your content. However, make sure the hashtags are relevant to your video and not overly generic.

Post During Peak Hours: Understanding when your target audience is most active on TikTok can enhance the visibility of your content. Experiment with posting during different times of the day to identify peak hours for engagement.

Remember, TikTok is a dynamic platform, and what works today may evolve tomorrow. Stay adaptable, keep experimenting, and most importantly, have fun creating content that resonates with you and your audience.

If you want us to help you with exciting changes in your marketing strategy, we are here! Whether it’s Social Media Management, Public Relations, or ensuring the seamless execution of your latest campaign, we got you!