TikTok 2021 Algorithm Update: An Exclusive Guide

Woman using TikTok algorithm tips

Are you an aspiring TikTok creator? Before you start creating content, it’s important to understand how the TikTok algorithm works, so that you can ensure your videos receive high engagement.

In this exclusive 2021 guide, we outline five ways to improve your TikTok algorithm ranking, maximising reach and engagement.

Want to become a master of TikTok? Then keep on reading…

The 15 Second Rule

TikTok’s algorithm favours content that users engage with and enjoy watching. 

One way enjoyment is measured is through a video’s completion rate. For example, a 100% completion rate means a video was watched from start to finish. 

With our expert experience, we know that viewers are more likely to watch shorter videos until the end, or even multiple times. 

As a result, a positive signal is sent to the algorithm scoring system, which ensures your content sees a higher reach and engagement rate. 

TOP TIP: The 15 second rule is great when you’re just starting out on TikTok and don’t yet have a following. Therefore, ensure all videos are under 15 seconds.

Check Audience Activity 

New engagement from active users positively influences the algorithm.

Users can have exclusive access to a TikTok Pro Account for free, (when you have reached 1,000 followers), so you can collect data and receive analytics on when your followers are most active. 

This will help you to successfully schedule posts at a time when your followers are online on the app. 

Posting when your audience activity is high means that your content is more likely to perform better in terms of reach and engagement.

TOP TIP: Make the most of your following; they enjoy your content and can help support further growth. 

When it comes to posting on TikTok, choosing the right sound to pair with your video is vital in its success. 

The app promotes the most trending sounds on the platform in its ‘TikTok Viral’ playlist. With thousands of sounds to choose from, you can see what sound is most viral in their curated charts.

Always add music to your videos, even if you end up silencing it. Trending music helps get your video on the ‘For You Page’ (FYP).  

Don’t forget you can use the voice over feature on your videos to give them your unique touch. 

TOP TIP: Whilst scrolling through TikTok if you hear a sound that you like – be sure to save it, so you can use it in future content. 

Hashtag Tips And Tricks 

By following trends on TikTok and incorporating topical hashtags, the likelihood of your content featuring on the FYP will increase.  

Research trending hashtags and create relevant, original content that fits into those themes. This will help to ensure that your video gets seen by a wider audience. 

The advantage of trending hashtags is that a large amount of people are searching for them. However, the disadvantage is that there’s so much competition and your video risks not being seen.

You’re more likely to get noticed by including less competitive hashtags. That’s why we recommend using a mixture of popular and niche hashtags. 

But how many hashtags should you use? We suggest adding four to five at the end of your caption. This means you can create a short snappy caption whilst also including a range of hashtags to reach a wider audience. 

TOP TIP: According to Vice.com if your posts include either #fyp, #foryoupage or #foryou it is more likely to appear on the FYP.

Consistency Is Key

Posting numerous times a day is a great way to increase your engagement – ensuring that your content gets more views and promoting the chances of your clips becoming viral. 

Try experimenting with different trends and techniques to see what works best with your audience. Utilise the findings to build a bank of content that strengthens your profile. 

One to two posts a day is considered the ideal amount to ensure your content appears on the FYP. 

TOP TIP: Inconsistency will slow your accounts growth and decrease your chances of going viral. 

Will you be using these tips in the future to boost your TikTok algorithm rating? Let us know in the comments on our post on Instagram or Facebook