TikTok SEO in 2024: The Ultimate Guide

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In this guide you’ll read:

  • what is TikTok SEO
  • How TikTok SEO works
  • TikTok vs Google
  • What are Keywords on TikTok
  • TikTok Ranking Factors
  • Google vs TikTok 
  • TikTok SEO Strategy
 

We’ve always believed in putting your marketing budget where your customers are. And now, where people search is shifting!

What is TikTok SEO?

TikTok SEO is all about making sure your videos get seen by as many people as possible on the platform.

People are using TikTok to search for anything – from beauty brands, travel recommendations, tech and gadgets, global news and educational purposes. 

Just like you’d use keywords and descriptions to boost your website’s visibility in Google, TikTok SEO involves using similar tactics to increase the chances of your videos popping up in searches.

By getting your TikTok SEO right, you can attract more viewers, boost engagement, and grow your following.

How does TikTok SEO work?

Here’s how it works: When users search for something on TikTok, the platform’s algorithm scans through all the videos to find the most relevant ones based on factors like keywords, engagement, and popularity.

By optimising your videos with the right keywords and descriptions, you increase the chances of your content being picked up by the algorithm and shown to more users.

 

Ranking Factors for TikTok SEO

Engagement

TikTok’s algorithm prioritises content that receives high levels of engagement, such as likes, comments, shares, and saves. The more engagement your video receives, the higher it’s likely to rank in search results.

Video Completion Rate

TikTok considers how many viewers watch your video from start to finish. Videos with higher completion rates are more likely to be favoured by the algorithm and rank better in search results.

Use of Keywords and Hashtags

Including relevant keywords and hashtags in your video title, description, and captions can help improve its visibility in search results. Use popular and trending keywords related to your content to increase its chances of being discovered.

Video Quality

TikTok values high-quality content that is visually appealing and engaging. Videos that are well-edited, creative, and showcase interesting or entertaining content are more likely to rank higher in search results.

Consistency

Consistently posting high-quality content can improve your overall profile ranking on TikTok. Regularly uploading videos that receive positive engagement signals to the algorithm that your content is valuable and relevant to users.

Audience Interaction

Engaging with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and duets can signal to the algorithm that your content is worth promoting. Building a strong community and fostering interaction can help boost your video’s ranking in search results.

Trend Participation

TikTok often promotes content that aligns with current trends and challenges on the platform. Participating in popular trends and challenges can increase your video’s visibility and ranking in search results.

TikTok SEO Keywords

Keywords in TikTok SEO are search terms or phrases that describe what your videos are all about and are commonly used by users when searching for similar content. 

For example, if you are reviewing a hotel experience abroad, then your keyword should include the name of the hotel and the city you visited so you can maximise your chances to appear on TikTok searches.

How do TikTok optimised keywords help content creation? Where should you place them?

They help TikTok’s algorithm understand what your video is about and where it should be displayed in search results or on users’ For You pages. 

By including relevant keywords in your video title, description, and captions, you can increase the likelihood of your videos being seen by your target audience and improve their discoverability on the platform.

TikTok SEO Tools to find Keywords

TikTok Search Bar: Start by typing in relevant terms related to your niche or content idea in the TikTok search bar. TikTok will suggest popular keywords and hashtags as you type, giving you insight into what users are searching for.

Explore Page: Explore trending videos and hashtags on the Explore page to identify popular topics and keywords within your niche.

Competitor Analysis: Look at what keywords your competitors are using in their video titles, descriptions, and captions. This can give you ideas for relevant keywords to include in your own video creation.

Keyword Research Tools: While TikTok doesn’t have dedicated keyword research tools, you can use external tools like Google Keyword PlannerUbersuggest, or SEMrush to find related keywords and search volumes. Although these tools are not specific to TikTok, they can still provide valuable insights into popular search terms and topics, so make sure to use them more than a guide or a starting point.

Trending Hashtags: Keep an eye on the trending hashtags section on TikTok’s Discover page. These hashtags can give you an indication of popular topics and keywords that are currently trending on the platform.

 

tiktok seo

Why are people moving from Google to TikTok?

People are turning to TikTok instead of Google because it’s just much quicker to get a response and more engaging.

You know those short videos that make you laugh or teach you something new? That’s TikTok for you. Plus, it’s so easy to find stuff – just swipe, and you’re in a world of entertaining content.

You can usually find what you are looking for in under 5 seconds – audience is getting even more impatient and want the solution the moment they hit the search button.

And hey, it’s not just about searching; TikTok actually shows you stuff you’re interested in, thanks to its smart algorithm.

It’s like having a cool friend who knows exactly what you like and shows you all the best stuff.

TikTok SEO: Strategy to Boost your Videos

Now that we covered the basics of TikTok SEO, here’s exactly what you need to do to make sure you implement the best SEO strategies in your video creations on TikTok.

Comprehensive Keyword Research

Start by finding the best keywords for your videos using the free tools mentioned above. Most importantly, don’t forget to utilise TikTok’s search bar, trends page, and explore various content categories to uncover popular and trending keywords. Sometimes TikTok will show you exactly what it needs from you! 

Strategic Keyword Placement

Once you’ve identified your best keywords that will improve your TikTok performance, start strategically incorporating them into your video titles, descriptions, and video captions. Ensure that your keyword usage feels natural and aligns seamlessly with the context of your content.

By optimising your videos with relevant keywords that your target audience is using, you improve the likelihood of your videos appearing in search results.

Create Compelling Videos

While optimising your videos for search is essential, it’s equally important to prioritise the creation of engaging, high-quality content. Develop content that resonates with your target audience, showcases your unique personality or brand identity, and provides value or entertainment – or both!

Remember to experiment with different video formats, viral sounds, styles, and storytelling techniques to keep your content fresh and captivating. There’s no hidden key to what TikTok success looks like.

 

Video Consistency – More important than you think!

Maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep your audience engaged and maintain momentum on the platform. Regularly upload new content that aligns with your audience’s interests and preferences, demonstrating your commitment to providing value and entertainment. 

Consistency signals to TikTok’s algorithm that you’re an active and reputable creator, potentially leading to increased visibility and exposure for your content.

Follow these tips to boost your visibility and rock the TikTok world like a pro. Let’s get those views rolling in!

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