In recent years, our search behavior, especially that of Generation Z, has undergone significant changes. In addition to Google, more and more users are turning to platforms like TikTok to search for information, discover products and make purchasing decisions. The Senior Vice President of Google announced at the Fortune Brainstorm Tech conference that nearly 40% of young people, when searching for a place for lunch, use TikTok and Instagram rather than Google or Google Maps.
How can your company also benefit from this? The answer is: TikTok SEO.
What is TikTok SEO?
TikTok SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the optimization of your content on TikTok to rank higher in the platform's search results. This allows you to present your videos to a larger audience and generate more attention for your brand or business.
Why is TikTok SEO so important?
- Help the algorithm: Assist the TikTok algorithm in properly categorizing your content and targeting it to the right users.
- Increased discoverability on TikTok: Particularly, young people already use TikTok as a standalone search engine. You need to rank well so that your videos are clicked on during searches.
- Display in Google search: TikTok videos are also displayed in Google Video search, allowing you to benefit across multiple channels.
Tips & Tricks for Optimizing Your Content for TikTok SEO
Think Persona-Based: What Content Interests Your Target Audience?
The foundation of any content creation should be a deep understanding of your target audience. Ask yourself: What topics engage them? What questions do they have? By creating content that answers these questions and serves their interests, you not only increase the satisfaction of your audience but also your relevance in TikTok's algorithm. Also, be sure to check out our article on creating a content concept for successful targeting of your audience.
Find the right keywords
Keywords are essential for a good SEO strategy. Find out which search terms your target audience is using. Then, incorporate these keywords strategically into your content.
Create relevant videos
After researching your keywords, create videos centered around these topics. Integrate the terms into the video description and audio to maximize discoverability.
Encourage interaction
The interaction rate is a crucial factor in ranking well in the TikTok algorithm. Therefore, encourage your viewers by asking questions and responding to comments. This form of interaction engages your community and signals to TikTok that your content is significant. Also, read our article on Content Engagement – when users react to your content.
Use relevant hashtags
Hashtags are also searchable and filterable elements on TikTok. Use hashtags that accurately describe your content and are used by your target audience to increase the visibility of your videos.
Add subtitles
Accessibility is an important aspect often overlooked. By using automatic subtitles, you make your videos accessible to a broader audience and improve SEO by allowing TikTok's search to index the spoken text. Customize the automatic captions manually, as recognition may not always be flawless, especially when using dialects or slang.
Conclusion: Use the full potential of TikTok
TikTok is now a powerful platform across various age groups, becoming increasingly relevant as a search engine. With the right strategies and techniques, you can maximize the reach of your videos, expand your online presence and attract new customers.
It is advisable to start early with TikTok in general and TikTok SEO. Stay one step ahead of the competition. And always stick to the basics: engaging topics, concise and meaningful intros, authenticity, and regular uploads are the key factors for success on TikTok.
So what are you waiting for? Get started before your competitors do.
Do you want to take your TikTok account to the next level?
