TikTok is a popular social networking platform attracting over a billion monthly users. It is quickly becoming the most popular network for short-form content, with a user base nearly as large as Instagram's 1.4 billion active users.

As of December 2023, over 2.6 billion people across the globe have downloaded TikTok, attesting to its immense popularity. Companies are hopping on the bandwagon to reach this fresh and enthusiastic customer base. Some of the most well-known companies using TikTok include Nike, ESPN, and The Washington Post.

New companies on the app constantly seek fresh ways to connect with users. This piece assembles useful hints for expanding your audience and making the most of this platform.

Why Should You Reach a Wider Audience on TikTok?

TikTok's popularity necessitates that businesses should invest in its potential. If you don't want to be left behind, you have to exploit what this social media platform has to offer. Here's why:

• Attract more TikTok followers: TikTok's user base has expanded beyond young users, helping brands attract followers across multiple age groups. Its short-video format appeals to younger demographics while engaging older users.
• Increase user engagement: TikTok's devoted audience engages actively with content. Brands can create engaging campaigns via UGC, hashtag challenges, and influencer collaborations.
• Market products among potential customers: Users aged 20-39, often active online shoppers, are ready to purchase products they see on social media.
• Get more gigs: Reaching a wider TikTok audience increases visibility, attracting potential clients or collaborators.

Tips for Reaching a Wider Audience on TikTok

If you want to boost your reach, consider these strategies:

1. Optimize for TikTok Search

Identify your major content pillars for discoverability. Build videos around these pillars, starting strong, providing value, and prompting viewers to act. Avoid making your content overly promotional; focus on relevance to your audience.

2. Invest in TikTok Ad Campaigns

TikTok offers multiple advertising formats:

• TopView Ads: Premium ads lasting 5–60 seconds, allowing engagement such as likes, comments, and shares.
• In-Feed Ads: Full-screen ads in users' feeds with options for interactive engagement and external links.
• Brand Takeovers: Ads shown immediately upon app launch. Can be image (3 seconds) or video (3.5 seconds), with one advertiser per day in the category.

These ads help brands promote videos organically and entertain the TikTok community.

3. Collaborate with Popular TikTok Influencers

Partnering with influencers expands your reach and credibility. Users are more likely to engage with content from recognizable influencers, athletes, or celebrities. For example, Spanish fashion brand Bimba&Lola collaborated with an influencer to reach a wider audience.

4. Ask Fans for Shoutouts

Encourage fans to promote your content. Their shoutouts introduce your profile to their followers, fostering organic growth and expanding your visibility.

5. Post Videos at the Right Time

Determine the optimal posting times for your audience. Use TikTok metrics or third-party tools like SproutSocial to analyze follower behavior and time your posts for maximum reach.

6. Use Hashtags and Trends

Hashtags increase discoverability. Check trending hashtags and use the app's hashtag recommendations. Keep in mind no hashtag guarantees placement on everyone's FYP, but using relevant ones improves visibility.

7. Respond to TikTok Comments with Videos

Replying to comments via videos creates personalized engagement. This enhances visibility, encourages sharing, and strengthens connections with your audience.

8. Use Trending Sounds and Effects

Popular music and effects increase the chance of virality. TikTok's algorithm favors videos using trending sounds, enhancing interaction and shares.

Conclusion

There is no foolproof method to become famous on TikTok. However, by leveraging trends, hashtags, challenges, influencer collaborations, ads, and optimal posting times, you can increase visibility and followers without resorting to bots or questionable apps.