There’s no doubt that TikTok is currently in its reign and showing no signs of slowing down. Since its launch in 2016, the social media video app’s explosive growth has opened doors for content creators globally, allowing them to showcase their creativity through storytelling and filmmaking techniques.
Head of Digital & Social Media Kylie Holmes says, "TikTok and the integration of automation are transforming the way content creators are creating videos for brand marketing. Content creators collaborate with brands to make sure their advertising videos stand out and connect with the right audiences."
"Authenticity is the key to brand marketing through TikTok, as TikTok audiences perceive advertising on TikTok as more authentic, honest, and genuine. This new method of advertising is currently breaking the conventions of traditional advertising techniques," she shares.
With over 1 billion active users on the platform–and over 2.5 million Australians alone–it’s both an opportunity and a challenge to roll out content that stands out among the rest. Here are a few tips that may help.
A SOLID START TO YOUR VIDEO
Quick, snappy and sharp – it seems to be the rule for starting off every good story and TikTok videos are no exception. Viewers are spoiled for choice on TikTok as there’s an infinite amount of content to flick through.
The incredibly fast-paced nature of the app means viewers are able to scroll past content quickly, so you’ll need to reel your audience in the first few seconds. Having a captivating beginning is key to having a video that stands out, as users will likely stay to watch the rest of your clip.
EXPLORE THE TRENDS
You’ll likely notice that particular dances, challenges and duets garner a large number of likes and views. Browsing through TikTok’s Discover page is an easy way to explore what’s currently trending, and comes especially handy when you’re wanting to gauge what types of content users are enjoying and sharing.
Play with trending filters, music and sound effects while applying your own creative twist to them. One great feature about the algorithm is how it groups together videos based on the trend. For instance, if your video is gaining traction using a trending song, it may end up featured in that category on the Discover page, alongside other popular videos which have also incorporated the same sound.
INCORPORATE VISUAL ELEMENTS
Experimenting with visuals is perfect for creating a video that stands out. Luckily, TikTok comes with a huge offering on the design front, where you can play around with text, fonts, stickers and colours. Including text at the very start of your video is a great way to keep viewers engaged as naturally, they’ll stick around to read your captions – at least in the first few seconds.
For those wanting to play with their filmmaking techniques, there are a host of in-app filters, transitions and visual effects available so you can really set the tone and dial up the moody aesthetic.
MAKE YOUR CONTENT RELATABLE
So you’ve got the look and sound down pat, but how will you ensure that it’s enough for people to share and follow? By keeping it relatable. Having a purpose or story behind your video will help boost its charm; in a feed of never-ending content, people will stick around for anything that resonates.
Fresh perspectives, cute animals, ‘hot takes’ with splashes of good humour, and a blend of confidence and wit. Think about your personal favourite videos and note down what you most liked about them – what works and why are they likeable? And if you’re needing even more inspiration, similar to keeping up with the trends, the easiest way to know what ‘works’ is to simply spend time on the app.
USE HASHTAGS
Audio synced? Transitions in check? Once you’ve fine-tuned your video, it’s time to press upload. If you want as many people to see it as possible, one of the easiest ways to gain views is having your work featured on your audience’s For You page.
Hashtags like #foryoupage #for you and #fyp will ensure your video pops up on other users’ feeds and make it easier for an audience to find you.
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