Get FREE Training Workshop from John Crestani
John Crestani has been recognized by Forbes, Business Insider, Entepreneur.com, and dozens of other publications for his success online. More importantly, he’s helped thousands of everyday people from around the world create success for themselves as well.
How do you create engaging TikTok content?
Creating engaging TikTok content involves understanding the platform’s unique culture, utilizing its features, and crafting videos that capture attention quickly. Here are key strategies to create engaging TikTok content:
1. Hook Your Audience Early
- First 3 Seconds Matter: TikTok users scroll quickly, so you need to grab their attention within the first few seconds. Start with something visually captivating, a question, a challenge, or a bold statement.
- Use Text: Add text to the video in the first few seconds to tell viewers what to expect, or ask an intriguing question to spark curiosity.
Example: If you’re showcasing a product, show its result first (e.g., a before-and-after effect) to intrigue viewers to watch the rest.
2. Keep Videos Short and Sweet
- TikTok is all about short-form content, so keep your videos around 15–30 seconds for maximum engagement. Even though TikTok allows videos up to 10 minutes, shorter videos tend to keep viewers engaged and are more likely to be rewatched or shared.
- Quick Edits and Cuts: Keep the pace fast to hold attention. Trim unnecessary parts and focus on the core message or content.
Example: If you’re doing a tutorial, condense it to the most impactful steps to keep the viewer engaged.
3. Use Trending Sounds and Music
- TikTok’s algorithm favors videos with popular sounds or songs, as these can increase your chances of appearing on the For You Page (FYP).
- Leverage popular sounds or songs that align with your video, but don’t force it—ensure it fits the mood and message of your content.
- Create Unique Versions of Trends: Put your unique spin on trending audio, memes, or challenges to make your content stand out.
Example: If a song is trending, think of a creative way to tie it to your brand or niche—like showcasing your product in a playful or surprising way.
4. Incorporate Visual Effects and Transitions
- TikTok offers a range of visual effects, filters, and transitions that make your videos visually dynamic. Experiment with these tools to create eye-catching content that will stop users from scrolling.
- Try jump cuts, smooth transitions, and effects like green screen to add a fun element and keep the video engaging.
Example: A fashion brand can use quick transitions to showcase different outfits, creating a visually engaging fashion lookbook.
5. Focus on Storytelling
- People connect with stories. Even in short videos, aim to tell a story that evokes emotions or curiosity. It could be a customer success story, the journey of your product, or a quick relatable situation.
- Problem-Solution Format: Show a problem, then provide a solution—this can be especially engaging for brands.
Example: Show a common issue (like struggling with a messy desk) and then reveal how your product (a desk organizer) solves it in a fun, engaging way.
6. Encourage Interaction
- Call to Action (CTA): Encourage viewers to like, comment, share, or follow. Ask questions or prompt users to interact with your content.
- Use TikTok’s interactive features like polls, Q&A, or questions to directly engage your audience.
- Encourage Duets/Stitches: Invite users to duet or stitch with your video, which can increase engagement and participation.
Example: Ask viewers to share their opinion on a new product or to comment with their own experiences.
7. Be Authentic and Relatable
- TikTok users value authenticity, so avoid overly polished or scripted content. Show the human side of your brand.
- Share behind-the-scenes moments, bloopers, or real-life experiences to make your content feel more genuine and relatable.
- Engage with your followers by responding to comments or featuring user-generated content (UGC).
Example: Show your team having fun creating content or share a humorous, authentic moment that represents your brand’s personality.
8. Use Hashtags Strategically
- Use a mix of trending, relevant, and niche-specific hashtags to increase your content’s discoverability. Trending hashtags increase the likelihood of your content appearing on the FYP, while niche-specific hashtags help target a more engaged audience.
- Branded Hashtags: Consider creating a unique hashtag for your brand or campaign to encourage user-generated content.
Example: A fitness brand could use hashtags like #fitnesschallenge, #fitfam, and a branded hashtag like #BrandNameFitChallenge to promote a campaign.
9. Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC)
- UGC is highly effective for building trust. Encourage your followers to create content related to your brand and feature their videos on your page.
- Create challenges or contests that prompt users to engage and share their own experiences with your product or service.
Example: Ask customers to share how they use your product and feature their videos to boost social proof and encourage others to participate.
10. Participate in Trends and Challenges
- TikTok is built around trends and challenges, so don’t miss the opportunity to jump on viral moments that align with your brand. Put your own twist on the challenge to make it relevant to your audience and brand.
- Even if the challenge is not directly related to your product, you can often find a creative way to make it work.
Example: A food brand can participate in a viral recipe challenge by using their products, or a beauty brand can join a makeup challenge with their products.
11. Post Consistently
- Regular posting is important to maintain visibility on TikTok. Stay consistent with your posting schedule (e.g., 3–5 times a week) and refine your content based on what works best.
- The more consistently you post, the higher your chances of building a loyal audience and growing your follower base.
Example: If you post content related to a specific theme (like #MondayMotivation tips for a fitness brand), keep it consistent to build audience expectations.
12. Test and Analyze Your Content
- Track what types of content perform best by looking at metrics like watch time, engagement rate, and comments.
- Double down on the types of videos that generate the most interest and adjust your strategy based on audience feedback and insights.
Example: If product demos generate more comments and shares than tutorials, focus more on showcasing your products in fun and creative ways.
Final Tips for Engaging TikTok Content:
- Be Playful: TikTok is all about fun, so don’t be afraid to show your playful side.
- Add Personal Touches: Connect with your audience by incorporating personal or relatable moments into your content.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new content types, sounds, or trends to see what resonates with your audience.
By focusing on these elements—grabbing attention early, staying authentic, engaging directly with your audience, and using TikTok’s features—your content will be more likely to stand out and drive meaningful engagement on the platform.
