Tips from a TikTok Creator Program Member: My Accidental Journey to Going Viral

Like many of my peers, I discovered TikTok during the COVID-19 pandemic as a fun diversion. At first, my videos barely broke 200 views and were primarily commented on by friends. However, everything shifted in October 2022 when a couple of my posts unexpectedly “went viral.” Today, I proudly boast nearly 30,000 followers and 4.7 million total likes on my content. This surge helped me get into the Creator Fund (now known as the Creator Rewards Program) and taught me invaluable strategies on gaining visibility and followers on TikTok.

Dare to Post Controversial Material

If you consult some of TikTok’s most successful creators about how to achieve viral status, a common suggestion is to create controversial content. I can confirm this from personal experience; my first viral video in 2020 fell into this category and accumulated over 80,000 views just one week after launching. It garnered so many comments that I ultimately decided to disable them.

@because_of_emilySeriously, guys. #mentalhealthmatters #mentalhealth #mentalillness #bpdtiktok #anxiety #therapy #mentalhealthawareness

♬ Follow me – Shawn🤩🥶

You might explore hot-button issues such as politics, abortion, gun legislation, or cannabis reform. Alternatively, you could offer your own “hot takes” on trending TV shows or films, relationship dynamics, or any subject that prompts lively discussion among viewers. The higher the view count, engagement, and shares your video accumulates, the greater the chance you’ll find yourself going viral on TikTok.

Incorporate Trending Audio Clips

Unbeknownst to many, some of today’s top tracks originated from TikTok. Artists like Lil Nas X, Olivia Rodrigo, and Chappell Roan owe part of their popularity to their songs going viral on the platform. Using trending audio is consistently cited as a crucial tactic for achieving viral posts on TikTok.

To discover viral songs and sound bites on TikTok:

• Browse your For You Page (FYP) for frequently used audio clips.
• Check out the TikTok Music Charts and browse the Viral 50 category.
• Navigate to Sounds -> Discover More Sounds -> Playlists, then locate the TikTok Viral selection.

Moreover, taking part in stylized trends associated with these sounds can further enhance your visibility.

Utilize Popular TikTok Hashtags and Themes

In addition to trending audio, leveraging popular TikTok hashtags in your posts can significantly broaden your audience.

Common hashtags individuals use to chase viral fame include:

• #fyp (as well as variations like #foryou and #foryoupage)
• #trending
• #viral
• #funny
• #comedy
• #cute
• #new

From my observations, selectively using well-circulated hashtags relevant to your content is essential. For instance, my videos often focus on my late partner, so I include tags like #widowsoftiktok and #griefjourney. Conversely, sellers may use hashtags such as #giftguide or #giftsforher.

Wondering which viral TikTok hashtags might work for your videos? Visit the TikTok Creative Center and select Trends -> Hashtags to review the highest-performing tags. You can also filter results by industry to target specific audiences.

Create Humorous Content

Many users turn to TikTok for entertainment, seeking a light-hearted escape. Hence, it’s no surprise that those who master the art of humor often achieve viral success on the platform.

Humor can be expressed in numerous ways, so identifying what resonates with both you and your target audience is key. Popular topics include comedic takes on parenting, office dynamics, and relationships. A talented creator I admire, Hayley Morris, adeptly crafts funny videos about anatomy, especially regarding reproduction.

Personally, I find that dark humor resonates well with my audience.

@because_of_emilySeriously, though, why? #CapCut #proposal #grief #darkhumor #loss #widowtok #missingher

♬ original sound – Megan Glosson

Embrace Honesty – Share Your Emotions

Distinct from other social media platforms, TikTok invites users to post raw, unpolished clips. Its appeal lies in relatability and authenticity, encouraging users to be more genuine.

One of my first videos to “go viral” featured me expressing my sorrow over losing my partner. I was taken aback by the response, as it led to an unexpected wave of comments and messages. Grief is a complex, often taboo subject, and many individuals can relate to those deeply personal feelings.

We all have stories to share, and being open and vulnerable can help you connect and grow your TikTok audience. If certain themes resonate with your niche, consider changing your TikTok username to better reflect your content.

Engage with Your Audience

My final tip for anyone looking to build a TikTok presence is to foster connections with your audience. Respond to their comments, watch their content, acknowledge their messages, and show appreciation for their support. After gaining a sufficient follower base, you can also go live on TikTok for real-time interaction.

In times that often feel divided and isolating, the bonds we form with others can uplift us during challenging moments. Furthermore, engaging with your followers illustrates that your intentions go beyond merely seeking views or fame; you genuinely wish to create a positive influence through your content.

Tell Your Unique Story on TikTok

I never aimed to cultivate a following on TikTok, yet I’m grateful for each of the individuals who chose to support me. The kindness and encouragement I’ve received for my videos have reinforced my belief in the power of community and our shared experiences.

If you’re just embarking on your TikTok journey and seek additional strategies, consider integrating other effective methods to attract followers, like creating TikTok duets with trending videos. You can also monitor who visits your TikTok profile to better understand your audience.

Image credit: Canva. All screenshots and videos by Megan Glosson.