What Is Considered Viral on TikTok + Tips to Go Viral

TikTok is a constantly shifting platform, where trends rise and fall in the blink of an eye. What was popular last week may be forgotten today, and what goes viral on TikTok is often unpredictable. However, some things are more likely to go viral than others, and it’s worth studying the trends to understand what makes content shareable. This will not only help you create better TikTok videos but also improve your chances of going viral on other platforms, such as Viral Instagram Reels.

Crayo AI clip creator tool has quickly emerged as a favorite among video creators for its ability to streamline the process of creating short viral videos.

What Is Considered Viral on TikTok

Viral content spreads rapidly across the internet. This exposure leads to massive views and shares in a short period. Going viral isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. Context matters. Different platforms and audience sizes create varying thresholds for viral status.

TikTok-Specific Thresholds: What Makes a Video Go Viral on TikTok?

On TikTok, a video is typically viral if it hits over 1 million views within a day. Smaller creators can also achieve virality at lower view counts. Videos with 100,000 to 500,000 views may go viral if they tap into niche communities or feature highly engaging content.

Benefits of Viral TikTok Marketing

tiktok app - What Is Considered Viral on TikTok

1. TikTok for Business Simplifies Marketing Efforts

The advantages of utilizing TikTok for Business for your marketing strategy are numerous. With its predominantly young user base, TikTok offers brands the chance to connect and build relationships with this key demographic. This platform serves as a comprehensive resource for advertisers, providing all the tools necessary to launch a successful marketing initiative. From creating engaging ads and setting budgets to pinpointing target audiences and analyzing performance, TikTok for Business equips brands with everything they need to optimize their video marketing efforts. Additionally, the platform allows for experimentation with creative approaches to advertising. Should you require assistance in producing authentic, attention-grabbing ads, the Ads Manager’s e-learning center is available to enhance your knowledge. TikTok for Business also facilitates partnerships with specialized TikTok ad agencies, enabling brands to customize their marketing plans for maximum effectiveness.

2. Access a Variety of Ad Formats

Another perk of TikTok for Business is that it enables you to develop unique ad creatives that cater to diverse marketing objectives and help your brand resonate with consumers. By establishing a TikTok for Business account, you can create branded challenges that encourage user participation. If your challenge is fun and original, it has a higher chance of going viral on TikTok, thus boosting your brand’s visibility. The five primary ad formats available on TikTok include: Top View ads, In-Feed ads, Hashtag Challenges, Brand Takeovers, and Branded Effects.

3. Transform Influencer Marketing

TikTok has quickly become a hub for influencer marketing. Research indicates that TikTok influencers enjoy an engagement rate of 17.96%, significantly higher than the 3.86% and 1.63% engagement rates for Instagram and YouTube, respectively. As a result, partnering with a TikTok influencer to promote your brand can yield substantial rewards. Influencers may showcase your products or services in their videos, and they can also include links to your website in their video descriptions, encouraging their followers to explore your offerings.

4. Connect With Your Target Audience

Identifying and reaching the right audience is crucial for online marketing success. TikTok provides brands with the opportunity to engage the audience that matters most to them. However, it’s essential to recognize that TikTok may not be the ideal platform for connecting with older consumers. Approximately 80 million people in the U.S. use TikTok each month, with nearly half of them (about 37.3 million) belonging to Generation Z. This makes TikTok an excellent platform for reaching younger demographics.

5. Produce Professional-Quality Content

Creating viral content is essential to TikTok’s success. To make your brand stand out, you need a strong theme or connection to your audience. This can be achieved with the help of a powerful video editor. High-quality video editing tools allow you to craft videos in formats that align with the platforms on which you plan to share them. For instance, Twitter videos have a different look and feel than YouTube videos. While YouTube videos can be informative and slow-moving, TikTok videos must be fast-paced and visually engaging.

6. Hashtags Revitalize Marketing Strategies

Hashtags play a crucial role in helping you connect with organic audiences on TikTok. To optimize your marketing efforts, consider developing a strategy around hashtags that includes the following steps:

Identify trending hashtags: Use the Discover page to find popular hashtags and explore their relevance to your brand.
Analyze influencer usage: Study the hashtags employed by influencers and consider incorporating them into your content to gauge their effectiveness.
Utilize standard hashtags: General hashtags like #viral and #love tend to be popular, so include them in your posts to test their reach.

7. Content Is the New King

Unlike Instagram, TikTok prioritizes content over everything else. As a result, effective marketing on TikTok requires a focus on content creation. Quality content can significantly enhance your marketing efforts on the platform. TikTok users prefer content that entertains rather than promotes. Thus, it’s essential to identify what resonates with viewers and develop content that aligns with their interests. Once your content incorporates elements that encourage sharing, it can gain traction on TikTok and increase your brand’s visibility by appearing on users’ For You pages.

8. Your Creativity Will Be Recognized

TikTok is an ideal platform for showcasing your creative talents and gaining recognition for your originality. Develop content that sparks conversations and encourages dialogue. If you’re able to initiate a trend, you may be overwhelmed by the enthusiastic engagement your content receives from users. The more your audience connects with the theme of your ad, the greater exposure it will achieve.

9. Analyze Data to Measure Your Marketing Success

Like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, TikTok provides users with tools to analyze performance metrics and evaluate the success of their video advertisements. However, the platform’s Analytics feature may only be available to TikTok Pro account users. The good news is that accessing a TikTok Pro account is free and only requires users to activate the feature to gain insights into important metrics related to their content, followers, and reach.

10. Spot Trends Early and Shape Them

TikTok is an excellent resource for discovering emerging trends before they go mainstream. The platform’s algorithm makes it simple for users to identify the latest trends and create timely, relevant content. Additionally, TikTok trends are dynamic rather than static, providing brands with opportunities to experiment with their content strategies while having fun and engaging their audiences.

Take your TikTok game to the next level with Crayo. Our AI-powered clip creator tool makes it easy to produce short videos optimized for virality. Just input a prompt, customize your video with our free templates, and export your clip in seconds. Try Crayo’s free clip creator tool today — just click the ‘Try Now’ button on our homepage to get started. No account required! Go from prompt to viral short videos in minutes with Crayo.

10 Expert Tips to Go Viral on TikTok

1. Leverage Crayo AI for Effortless Viral Video Creation

Crayo AI streamlines the process of short video production, enabling you to generate an unlimited number of videos in one go. This tool automatically creates captions, music, effects, and backgrounds. Simply input an outline or prompt, choose your preferred style, and export. With Crayo, you can turn ideas into shareable clips in minutes, leaving more time for creative exploration. It’s an effective way to maximize your chances of going viral and earning income through TikTok’s Creator Fund program.

2. Choose High-Value Topics to Capture Attention

The path to virality begins with selecting a topic that captivates your audience. You have mere seconds to grab their attention, so it’s crucial to establish the theme and tone of your video right away. Consider focusing on evergreen subjects or current trends, depending on what will resonate with your audience. For instance, engaging Gen Z in trade recruitment, showcasing unique product origins, or highlighting customer success stories could all serve as effective starting points.

3. Keep Videos Short for Maximum Impact

While TikTok allows videos up to 10 minutes long, shorter clips typically perform better. Aim for around 30 seconds to maintain viewer interest and boost the likelihood of going viral. TikTok’s algorithm favors content with high watch times, so by creating concise videos that engage audiences, you can increase your chances of reaching a wider audience.

4. Captivate Viewers with Engaging Visuals

With countless distractions vying for our attention, it’s critical to create videos that immediately intrigue and maintain interest. Utilize TikTok’s in-app effects and customization options to enhance your video’s visual appeal. Experiment with features like text overlays, stickers, jump cuts, and augmented reality tools to produce unique and attention-grabbing content. Consistently focus on integrating compelling visual elements to help your videos stand out.

5. Encourage Viewer Interaction to Boost Engagement

Engagement metrics, such as likes, shares, and comments, are crucial for increasing your chances of going viral on TikTok. Foster interactions by posing questions, creating polls, or leaving blank prompts in your videos. You can also respond to user inquiries with video replies or incorporate TikTok Live sessions to connect with your audience in real time. The more you stimulate interactions, the better your content will perform.

6. Create Shareable Content to Expand Reach

The key to going viral on TikTok lies in producing content that users want to share. To spark shares, tap into themes that resonate with audiences, including humor, education, inspiration, and authenticity. Prioritize developing engaging clips that encourage users to tag friends or post your videos on other platforms. The wider your shareability, the more likely your content will reach new viewers and help you grow your audience.

7. Collaborate to Reach New Audiences

Partnerships with creators, influencers, or brands can help you tap into their established audiences. When collaborating, ensure that your partner aligns with your values and appeals to your target demographic. Plus, explore TikTok Pulse, which places ads in popular videos to help you reach new viewers. For example, Zach King’s collaboration with Chipotle not only promoted a holiday campaign but also generated significant user engagement through creative content.

8. Stay on Top of Trends to Maximize Relevance

To optimize your content’s chances of going viral, regularly monitor TikTok trends, including popular sounds, hashtags, challenges, and themes. Explore the Discover page, search functions, and trending content to find in-the-moment ideas to leverage. Incorporating timely references into your posts will enhance their shareability and engagement potential.

9. Prioritize Consistency to Build Your Presence

Developing a viral strategy requires ongoing experimentation and analysis, so focus on creating high-quality content that you can post regularly. Establish a schedule for different types of videos, such as trending challenges or educational clips, to ensure you consistently share fresh material. Over time, this will help you refine your approach, boost audience engagement, and increase your chances of going viral.

10. Engage With Your Audience to Foster Community

While views are critical for going viral, it’s equally important to focus on engagement metrics, such as likes, shares, and comments—foster interactions by asking questions, creating polls, or leaving blank prompts in your videos. You can also respond to user inquiries with video replies or incorporate TikTok Live sessions to connect with your audience in real time. The more you stimulate interactions, the better your content will perform.

12 Viral Content Ideas for TikTok

people making tiktok reel - What Is Considered Viral on TikTok

1. Teasing New Products with Sneak Previews

Sneak peeks are among the most effective types of video content for creators and brands looking to build excitement for new products. Get creative with your videos that hint at upcoming launches or limited-edition items, sparking curiosity and anticipation among your audience. Hashtags like #SneakPeek and #ComingSoon can help boost visibility and encourage followers to stay tuned for the full reveal.

For example, Lululemon often shares weekly sneak previews of upcoming product drops to generate buzz and excitement around new collections.

2. Create Your Own Challenges

TikTok challenges are one of the best ways to go viral, encouraging mass participation. Think about trending TikTok concepts and put your own spin on them, whether it’s a dance challenge, a funny video, or a unique way to use your product. Engaging your target audience with trending hashtags can help maximize your video’s reach. Hashtags like #ChallengeAccepted and #ViralChallenge can help increase discoverability.

For instance, a beauty brand could launch a #GlowUpChallenge, asking followers to showcase their skincare transformations while using their products.

3. Tutorials and How-Tos

Well-crafted how-to videos help your audience learn a new skill, understand your product, or follow a step-by-step process in an easy-to-digest format. To capture your audience’s attention, keep your tutorials short, visually engaging, and easy to follow with clear captions, dynamic editing, and high-quality visuals. Incorporating trending hashtags related to your product can further boost visibility, helping your content reach a broader audience seeking informative and actionable videos.

For example, Emma Chamberlain shares how-to videos demonstrating creative and easy-to-make coffee recipes using her Chamberlain Coffee products. Whether she’s crafting an iced matcha latte or a unique espresso creation, her engaging and relatable style makes the process fun and accessible for viewers.

4. Ask Your Audience for Input

One of the best ways to engage your audience and make them feel involved in your brand is by directly asking for their input. Polling your followers on TikTok about upcoming designs, colors, product features, or content ideas can provide valuable insights into what your customers actually want. Use interactive captions, comment-driven questions, or TikTok’s polling features to encourage your viewers to participate.

For example, a home decor brand could post a TikTok video showcasing two different wall art designs for an upcoming collection and ask followers to vote on their favorite in the comments.

5. Share Authentic Behind-the-Scenes Moments

People love authentic content, and behind-the-scenes (BTS) footage helps build trust with your TikTok audience. Show the process of making your products, setting up your studio, or filming your TikTok videos. Adding captions and hashtags like #BTS or #MadeWithLove can enhance discoverability.

For instance, Béis, a luggage and travel accessory brand, posts behind-the-scenes videos of photoshoots for their latest line of travel gear and accessories.

6. Live Streams for Real-Time Engagement

Unlike pre-recorded content, live videos feel more authentic and allow for spontaneous conversations, making your brand more relatable and approachable. With live streams, creators can talk about their product in real time, answer any questions viewers might have, and provide live demonstrations to showcase product benefits and features. Promoting your TikTok Live ahead of time and using captions, trending hashtags, and countdown reminders can help maximize attendance and engagement.

For example, a kitchenware brand could host a live cooking demonstration, where a chef uses their latest cookware to prepare a quick and delicious meal while answering real-time questions from viewers.

7. Collaboration Videos to Amplify Your Reach

Collaborating with other content creators or influencers is a powerful TikTok marketing strategy to increase your reach. Whether it’s a duet, a lip sync battle, or a reaction video, collaborations expose your content to a broader target audience. By partnering with creators who align with your brand’s niche, values, or aesthetic, you can build credibility and create viral-worthy content that resonates with both audiences.

For instance, HausLabs regularly collaborates with beauty influencers in Get Ready With Me (GRWM) videos to showcase their line of beauty products.

8. Inspirational TikTok Videos That Resonate with Your Audience

Your brand is more than just its products—it’s a reflection of your mission, values, and personality. Sharing inspirational TikTok videos allows you to connect with like-minded viewers and turn them into followers who align with your brand’s message. Showcase videos that talk about your brand’s journey or post uplifting content that motivates, educates, or resonates with your audience.

For example, a small business owner could share a TikTok video detailing their journey from starting with a side hustle to building a full-time brand, highlighting the challenges, successes, and lessons learned along the way.

9. Engaging #StoryTime Videos

People love hearing personal or entertaining stories, and #StoryTime videos consistently rank among the most popular TikTok ideas. Whether you’re sharing a business mistake that led to a breakthrough or a funny experience, engaging storytelling can help you connect with your TikTok audience.

For instance, the founder of Truly Lifestyle Brand shared a #StoryTime TikTok video about her journey from being a micro-influencer testing countless skincare products to realizing the need for a brand that truly delivers results, inspiring her to create her own skincare line.

10. Syncing Content with Trending Sounds

Trending songs can significantly increase the reach of your TikTok videos, helping them gain visibility on the For You Page (FYP). Syncing your content to a viral sound while making it relatable to your niche is a great way to go viral, as TikTok’s algorithm favors videos that incorporate trending audio. The key is to put a creative spin on the trend, whether through humor, storytelling, or product showcases, to make your content engaging and shareable.

For example, a bakery could use a trending song with the caption “When someone asks if we have fresh cookies… We ALWAYS do!”, creating an engaging and shareable TikTok video.

11. Duets and Stitches for Interactive Content

Use TikTok’s Duet and Stitch features to react to viral videos, add your commentary, or respond to customer testimonials. These features make your content more interactive and engaging, allowing you to join trending conversations while showcasing your personality or brand perspective.

For example, TikTok creator Mads Mitch stitched her viral video, where she originally coined the iconic catchphrase “How hard can it be? Boys do it,” using it to promote her apparel line inspired by the phrase.

12. Humorous Skits and Memes That Entertain and Engage

Funny, relatable content is one of the fastest ways to go viral on TikTok, as humor naturally encourages shares, comments, and engagement. Whether it’s a short skit, a reaction to a trending meme, or a playful take on a customer experience, these videos make your brand feel more approachable and entertaining. When done well, humorous content not only keeps your audience entertained but also helps reinforce your brand personality, making it more memorable.

For instance, a fashion brand could make a humorous skit titled "Types of People at a Sample Sale," acting out different shopper personalities—like the overly competitive bargain hunter, the indecisive try-on expert, and the person who buys everything ‘just in case.’

Create Viral Shorts In Seconds With Crayo

crayo - What Is Considered Viral on TikTok

Creating engaging short videos can be a time-consuming process. Crayo AI changes that. This powerful tool allows you to create unlimited shorts instantly. Just input a prompt, customize the style, and export. Crayo even auto-generates captions, effects, music, and more. Create with ease and focus on going viral.

What Is Considered Viral on TikTok + Tips to Go Viral