From inspiration to success: How TikTok has changed the game for creatives

TikTok is a Chinese app that has conquered the world since 2016 and now inspires countless users in Germany as well.

The platform allows people short videos that are often very creative and entertaining. Music plays a particularly important role.

TikTok not only has the potential to change the game for creatives, but it already is a game changer for many artists . The platform is now even competing with Instagram and YouTube.

However, there are also concerns regarding data handling and a potential ban on the app in some countries. The negative impact on minors and on society as a whole is also a subject of ongoing and heated debate.

The success of TikTok as a platform for creatives

TikTok is undoubtedly one of the most popular social media platforms worldwide . The app, which was developed in China and originally known as “Douyin” , has quickly become a global sensation and is now available in more than 150 countries.

With over a billion users, TikTok is one of the fastest growing platforms on the market and has already challenged other established platforms such as Instagram and YouTube.

What makes TikTok special, however , is its ability to inspire creatives from all over the world and offer new opportunities to implement their ideas

From music videos to comedy sketches, there are practically no limits to what you can create on TikTok.

Many artists and creatives have started or at least significantly advanced careers on TikTok

The young Russian artist @nicolaiganichev, for example, regularly uses the platform for live streams and interacts directly with his fans in this way.

Several of his videos have garnered up to 6 million views. The 22-year-old Nicolai Ganichev presents the creation of his artistic portraits in the style of Lucian Freud, using pastel tones. He seems to be heading full steam ahead towards resounding success.

Community feedback also plays an important role in the development of successful content on TikTok – another aspect that contributes to the platform's popularity.

In Germany, even traditional news programs frequently report on this: Tagesschau recently reported that companies like ByteDance (the Chinese company behind TikTok) are under scrutiny from authorities due to possible Privacy violations, and that there have been/are discussions about a ban on TikTok.

Despite these challenges, TikTok remains one of the most exciting and promising platforms for creatives who want to make their voice heard in the world.

How TikTok's algorithm influences the path to success

With over a billion active users worldwide, TikTok has attracted the attention of companies, influencers, and creatives. But how exactly does the algorithm behind the app work? How does it influence the success of videos?

TikTok's algorithm works differently than those of other platforms like YouTube or Instagram. It is based on machine learning and data analysis to create personalized content for each individual user.

This means that each user receives different content, depending on their preferences and interests. To be successful on TikTok, you should focus on video content that appeals to your target audience. One way to do this is to follow trends and challenges creatively address .

The use of music is another important factor for the success of your videos – TikTok offers a huge library of royalty-free music to choose from.

However, there are also some challenges in creating successful content on TikTok. Competition is high , as more and more people are using the platform and creating content. Furthermore, getting feedback from the community can be difficult.

Nevertheless, TikTok offers new opportunities for creatives to realize their ideas and make their work accessible to a broad audience. The algorithm can help them deliver their content to the right people and achieve viral success. Overall, TikTok offers a unique opportunity for creatives to succeed and share their work with a global audience.

With the right understanding of the algorithm and the creation of engaging content, users can fully realize their potential on TikTok.

Tips and tricks for being successful as a creative on TikTok

Being successful as a creative on TikTok requires a certain strategy .

Increase your reach on TikTok: How to generate more followers

The short-form content allows for the coverage of many different topics , appealing to virtually every target group. Whether beginner or professional, it's important to stay engaged and actively explore the platform.

Therefore, we give you six tips and tricks on how to quickly and steadily generate new followers.

Video quality must be right

With all the content being published on TikTok every day, a high level of quality essential. This is the only way to attract potential viewers to your account, watch more of your videos, and follow you.

Effort and hard work are always rewarded on social media. Be authentic and engaging, and present your content in a creative way that captivates viewers and keeps them following you.

It's not easy to find the perfect niche right away, but let other influencers inspire you. Don't just copy their content, though; come up with something original that makes you unique.

Inspiration is important, but copying someone else's videos verbatim doesn't go down well at all. Be yourself and focus on the quality of your own content.

Posting at the right time

As with all other social media platforms, TikTok's algorithm works best when you consistently post your new videos at the same time. This not only helps existing followers follow you more easily, but is also essential for new followers to better understand the regularity of your content.

Depending on your target audience, the best time to post will vary. It's best to check your analytics to see when your videos are most viewed.

With a certain regularity, more and more people will follow you after a while, as they know exactly when new videos will be posted and what quality they can expect.

Be patient

You probably won't gain hundreds of new followers overnight. Be patient and actively work on improving your content and seeing what's trending in your niche. Initially, buying TikTok followers to give your incoming reach a boost won't hurt.

New users are more likely to trust your content if you already have a certain number of followers. However, don't overdo it and focus on increasing your follower count organically later. 

Using hashtags correctly

TikTok relies heavily on hashtags to help users find content tailored to their interests. A good balance is needed to ensure your videos reach the right audience. To achieve this, observe users within your niche and compile a list of relevant hashtags that you can consistently use in your videos.

A good rule of thumb is to focus on two or three major hashtags and fill the rest with less well-known keywords. This mix is ​​important to avoid getting lost in the sea of ​​content, but also to ensure your posts are actually displayed. Thorough research is crucial. And don't forget to update your hashtags regularly, as trends fade quickly.

Interact with other creators

Collaborations with other influencers are immensely important on TikTok, especially for facilitating the transfer of followers from one person to another. You can work directly with other users and create content together, but TikTok also offers various ways to link your content with that of other users.

One important tool is “Stitch” , which allows you to combine other creators' videos with your own.

“Duets” also a great way to collaborate with others. This not only helps your reach but also allows other users to share their content. Just make sure the videos offer some added value and don't just shamelessly copy others.

Involve your followers

When creating your content, don't forget the "social" aspect of social media. Interaction between you and your viewers should be paramount and make you appear more likeable and approachable.

Respond to comments regularly and directly involve your followers in your content. More comments and interactions not only help the algorithm, but also show potential new followers that you are trustworthy and care about your community.

The more active you are, the faster you will gain new followers. Hiding behind a mask and hardly interacting with other users is pointless.

Stay actively engaged, ask and answer questions frequently, and always include your followers in your videos.