What I've learned about creating since joining TikTok
Well, it’s finally happened. I somehow found an app that I enjoy as much as Instagram—and it’s filled with creators a fraction of my age?! In all of this quarantine craziness, I decided to use some of my available time to make video content on TikTok. I know, I know; but despite what some are saying about TikTok, it continues to be the fastest-growing social media platform to date. As a creator, I’d be foolish not to see what all of the fuss is about!
In spite of the success some have experienced on Instagram, it’s no secret that creators like myself are frustrated with the algorithm. While TikTok may not be the most community-focused app out there, there is something to be said about its algorithm as internet stars seem to be emerging faster than ever. Just look at VidCon. 2019’s YouTube conference saw a huge uptick in TikTok creators as their fans swarmed the convention center and it seems that this app that some are calling ‘Vine’s second cousin’ has made an even bigger name for itself in 2020.
So what has my TikTok journey looked like as a 25-year-old creator? Hilarious and thrilling to say the least. Just like Vine, comedic content on TikTok is king but that’s not to say there isn’t room for other content niches like artists, DIYers, Cute Couples, Pets, Travel accounts and, this is where I come in—fashion. After experimenting with random video content I decided to go back to my Instagram roots and post my first fashion themed piece of content. If Instagram taught me anything it’s that sometimes it’s best to just pick a theme you know and stick to it!
Yes, I found my niche and I’m having fun, but is it working? Oh boy is it! In total, my 30-second videos have garnered over 63 thousand likes; and that’s only after 3 weeks of trying something new. That first fashion-themed video? Currently sitting at over 200,000 views. Many other creators are seeing overnight success or instant interest in the content they have to offer, a lot of it is trial and error, but that’s the beauty of it. With an algorithm that rewards new and interesting content, creators on TikTok are less afraid to try something new—thus are rewarded with content they truly like to product and an audience that truly enjoys watching.
Curious about joining TikTok? Here are a few tips from me to you:
Do it. Seriously, this even goes for brands interested in developing their presence on the new platform. Even if you start an account only to watch at first. It’s totally worth being on the app just to see what’s up.
Looking to create? Try out different ideas to find out what works best for you and your potential audience. Don’t be afraid to mix content themes on one account, just experiment. Most importantly make it something you’re actually interested in!
TikTok loves quick content and great stories! Maybe you’re showing a DIY project; try narrating the full project from start to finish. Maybe even make it into a multi-part series your audience can come back to.
The TikTok algorithm loves great lighting. No matter what you’re filming, make it well-lit!
Once you have found your ideal page theme, keep them coming back for more by advertising it in your captions. For example, on every few videos, I always include “Follow for more plus-size style” in my caption. This way someone who spots my video in their “for you” page is more likely to hit the follow button just knowing the type of content they’ll be seeing from me.
All in all, joining a new platform has made creating feel a little more new and exciting again. I’ve always wanted to experiment with video, but TikTok is much quicker and less stressful than the full production YouTube has become. If you are on TikTok, feel free to connect with me over there! For more style content, you can always keep up with my on my instagram!
Thanks for reading!
- C