Are you struggling to get your TikTok content noticed? Despite creating engaging videos, do you feel like they're getting lost in a sea of content? There's a strategy that several industry professionals and artists are using to change the game on TikTok.
The Power of Account Warming
Andrew Southworth, a music marketing professional and artist, shared a technique that could make all the difference in getting your content seen by the right people. This strategy, known as 'account warming,' may seem ridiculously simple, but it can be the key to unlocking TikTok's algorithm.
How TikTok's Algorithm Works
TikTok's algorithm doesn't just analyze what you post; it also takes into account the type of content you consume on the platform. This means that the algorithm considers not only your posts but also the videos you watch, like, and comment on. This information helps TikTok decide who to show your content to.
A Surprising Twist
Imagine if Spotify worked in a similar way. The algorithm would say, 'This artist listens to a lot of reggaeton, so let's show their music to reggaeton fans.' While this may sound absurd, it's exactly what's happening on TikTok, according to Andrew Southworth's research.
The Account Warming Strategy
So, how can you apply this strategy to boost your TikTok presence? Here are the steps:
- Define your target audience: Identify who your ideal audience is and what type of content they consume. For example, if you're a rock alternative artist, think about what other accounts they follow and what hashtags they use.
- Consume relevant content: Spend time actively consuming content related to your niche. Watch videos, like, comment, and follow accounts that your target audience would engage with.
- Avoid irrelevant content: Skip any content that doesn't relate to your niche. If you're positioning yourself as an urban music artist, skip videos about cooking or sports.
- Maintain a consistent routine: Make account warming a part of your daily routine, not just before posting.
A Crucial Point
If you use TikTok for personal entertainment, watching videos of cats, extreme sports, or cooking recipes, you're sending mixed signals to the algorithm. To avoid this, consider having separate accounts: one for your artistic project and another for personal use.
Does it Work?
Andrew Southworth mentions that companies have invested thousands of dollars in this strategy, and it's working for them. While it's essential to try and see if it works for you, the logic behind it makes sense.
Content is Still King
Remember that account warming is not a substitute for creating high-quality content. Your content still needs to be engaging and relevant to your audience. However, by warming up your account, you can ensure that your content reaches the right people who will appreciate it.
The Added Benefit of Education
By actively consuming content in your niche, you'll gain valuable insights into the platform's visual language, trends, and formats that work well. You'll also learn how to interact with your target audience and get ideas for your own content.
Conclusion
If you're struggling to get your TikTok content noticed, try account warming. It may seem tedious, but dedicating 15-20 minutes daily to consuming strategic content can make a significant difference. Keep your accounts separate, and give the algorithm the right signals about where to show your music.
