The TikTok algorithm serves as the foundation for user interaction and content exploration on the platform. Its importance stems from its ability to customize the For You Page (FYP) for every user, presenting a unique feed derived from their preferences, engagements, and activities. We advise understanding and aligning with these nuances to leverage the TikTok algorithm’s potency and deliver more appealing content to targeted audiences. Curious to explore further? Join Mega Digital for an insightful journey into TikTok’s algorithmic wonders!
Table of Contents
What is TikTok Algorithm?
There are many ways to describe the TikTok algorithm, but we can keep it simple: The TikTok algorithm is a system that recommends content by rating videos based on a combination of factors like engagement, user preferences, video information, and device settings. It will start gathering information about your interest and not interest to decide which videos will show on your “For You page” feed.
What are the TikTok Algorithm updates for 2023?
The specifics of the TikTok algorithm before 2023 are not publicly disclosed. However, it is widely known that the previous algorithm operated on a sophisticated framework, considering various factors to determine the content displayed on users’ For You page. In the end, the TikTok algorithm always focuses on personalization, and engagement played a significant role in shaping the TikTok landscape we know today.
But for the first time, at Session 10 of TED2023, TikTok CEO Shou Chew has taken an example for the new TikTok algorithm. When 3 people like the same videos, the TikTok algorithm will put them in one group. Next, the TikTok algorithm presents other videos that align with their shared interests.
TikTok algorithm explained: Let’s take a look at CEO Shou Chew’s example to get a better idea about this new algorithm:
- Person #1 like videos 1,2,3 and 4
- Person #2 like videos 1,2,3 and 5
- Person #3 like videos 1,2,3 and 6
When 3 people do it at the same time, TikTok algorithm will realize and show person #1 videos 5 and 6. So do other people:
- Person #1 will be present videos 5 and 6
- Person #2 will be present videos 4 and 6
- Person #3 will be present videos 4 and 5
And it will repeat as scale in real-time across more than a billion people. “It’s basically just math” – TikTok CEO Shou Chew said. Therefore, in this way, anyone can have their videos go viral, irrespective of their position in the real world.
How does the TikTok algorithm 2023 work?
Multiple factors influence how TikTok’s algorithm serves content to users. So to focus on strategies to maximize, reach potential customers, and increase performance for your TikTok Channel, you must know the 3 major key ranking signals:
User interactions and behavioral signals
The algorithm considers the following key data signals:
- Video likes and shares
- Accounts followed
- Comments Posted
- Content created
- Videos completed
- Favorited videos
- Not interested videos
To further constrict your interests, TikTok also considers your watch length. The longer you watch, the more interest you show, meaning that it carries more weight of interest in the TikTok algorithm 2024. In addition, the updating TikTok algorithm will select creators whose content you regularly engage with more than the ones you follow but often scroll past.
Video information
In addition to your activity, TikTok factors in the information on the video to identify the subject matter and then assess which ones you’d be interested in. TikTok uses these metrics to determine the subject matter:
- Sound: To identify trending audio content
- Hashtags: To categorize the content and inform the algorithm what the video is about
- Keywords: To inform the algorithm what the content is about
- Content: To make sure there are no two videos with the same content that will reach users
Device and account setting
Although the algorithm is preferred as a strong indicator of interest, device-account settings are still important factors. TikTok will distribute content with the same installation language to users, which will help brands reach their target customers, bringing better content and experiences to users.
- Country settings
- Language preferences
- Device type
- Category selection
What factors will the TikTok algorithm limit?
While important ranking factors influence the visibility of your TikTok videos, it’s equally crucial to understand the factors that can prevent your videos from being recommended. Here are some of those factors to be aware of:
- Content users have already watched
- Spam content
- Duplicate content
- Content users have marked as “Not Interested”
- Potentially harmful/upsetting content
5 Tips to Conquer The TikTok Algorithm 2024
TikTok changes and develops daily, so you need to understand how the TikTok algorithm works to get a high reach. Here are a few TikTok tips for you to get better results.
#1: TikTok algorithm for views
Hold your audience in the first 3 seconds. TikTok moves fast, so your video needs to hook viewers’ attention and show the value in the first 3 seconds to make them stop scrolling. If you miss this chance, your audience will scroll to the next video, and you will lose a potential customer. Moreover, the first 3 seconds are critical for memory and brand awareness.
#2: TikTok SEO
TikTok SEO is a whole new world. Although TikTok primarily relies on its algorithm to surface content to users, implementing SEO strategies can help increase the chances of your videos reaching a wider audience. Here are some key aspects of TikTok SEO:
- Keywords
- Hashtags
- Video Descriptions
- Captions
- Engagement and Interactions
- Consistency and Frequency
- Collaborations and Duets
#3: Focus on a Niche/Subculture
Focusing on a niche on the TikTok platform offers several benefits and can contribute to your success. Based on a large number of consistent videos related to a niche, the TikTok algorithm will recognize your expertise and start serving your content to the right audience.
Remember, while focusing on a niche offers advantages, choosing a subculture that aligns with your interests, expertise, and audience preferences is essential.
#4: Promote Cross with other TikTok users who match your niche
TikTok shows that 61% of users like brands better when they create or participate in a trend on TikTok, and 21% of TikTokers feel more connected to brands when they comment on people’s posts. Therefore, TikTok highly recommends a promote cross strategy to create a connection between users and form a community:
- Follow trending content
- Answer trending questions or prompts
- Remix trending ideas with creators
- Duets, stitch, and video replies to comments
#5: Publish a series
When posting a series of videos of the same action, unveiling a little bit more information each time will make people come back for more. Here are some advantages of creating and posting a series:
- Audience Engagement
- Storytelling Opportunities
- Increased Watch Time
- Building a Content Library
- Establishing Expertise
- Collaboration Opportunities
Remember to plan and structure your series effectively, keeping your audience’s interests and expectations in mind.
TikTok algorithm FAQs
Has TikTok changed its algorithm in 2023?
Not officially, but TikTok has changed a lot since early 2023, like rolling out a new feature called “Refresh“- letting users reset TikTok For You page, launching TikTok Pulse – ad revenue-sharing for top creators, and probably more.
>>> Read more: TikTok For You Page Reset: How To Get On Top Of TikTok FYP
In the TikTok What’s Next 2023 report, TikTok said, “We identified this year’s trends by analyzing changes in certain social and cultural sentiments and what that will mean for TikTok user behavior. Then, we backed up our predictions with global research and case studies to ensure they were grounded in truth. And we tied it all together with advice on how to leverage these trends—so you can stay ahead of the curve”. So forecasting in 2024, the TikTok algorithm will prioritize and focus more on user experience and content quality and could be like mini-versions of YouTube.
Is it too late to grow on TikTok 2024?
No, it is not too late to grow on TikTok in 2024. While TikTok has seen significant growth and many creators have already established themselves on the platform, new creators still have ample opportunity to gain visibility and build an audience.
TikTok’s user base continues to expand, and with the right content strategy, consistency, and engagement with the TikTok community, it is possible to grow and succeed on the platform. Remember to create unique and engaging content that resonates with your target audience, utilize popular trends and hashtags, and interact with other TikTok users to increase your chances of growth.
How can I beat the TikTok Algorithm in 2024?
Eventually, there is no guaranteed method to outsmart the TikTok algorithm. However, having an understanding of how it works and implementing the tips can enhance your course and increase your visibility in 2024. Consistency and strong presence are key to “hacking” the TikTok algorithm.
Overview
Like any other platform like Facebook, YouTube, or Instagram, understanding how the TikTok algorithm 2024 works is the only way to win. TikTok is still a playground for content creators to express and spark their creativity; therefore, engaging video ideas is the key factor to winning the TikTok algorithm. Hope our tips will help you drive visibility and engagement on TikTok. And remember to check out our article for some inspiration!
