TikTok is gradually becoming a powerful ‘search engine,’ especially for the younger generation. According to a report from Google in 2022, 40% of Gen Z users no longer use Google for searching but instead turn to TikTok. This is where TikTok SEO comes into play, as it helps content creators and brands stand out from their competitors. Let’s explore everything about TikTok SEO with MKT Software!
I. What is TikTok SEO? Why should businesses implement TikTok SEO as soon as possible?
TikTok SEO is the process of optimizing your videos on TikTok to rank higher in search results. Whether you’re a seller or a content creator, TikTok SEO is crucial. Here are some reasons why:
- Changes in Gen Z’s search behavior: According to Google’s VP of Search, 40% of Gen Z users no longer use Google but search for information on TikTok and Instagram, indicating a significant shift in the younger generation’s search behavior.
- Increased visibility with TikTok SEO: Research from Hootsuite shows that videos with accurate keywords in titles and descriptions can increase organic reach by up to 80%. TikTok’s algorithm prioritizes content based on relevance and engagement, allowing even small businesses to compete with larger brands if they properly optimize through TikTok SEO.
- Predicted growth in TikTok users: According to Statista’s predictions, by 2025, TikTok will surpass 1.8 billion global users, with the majority being Gen Z. This presents a huge opportunity for businesses to reach potential customers and build brand awareness through TikTok SEO.
- TikTok drives direct sales: Adweek reports that 49% of TikTok users have made a purchase after seeing product content on the platform. This proves that TikTok is not just a brand promotion channel but also a place where businesses can close sales directly.
With the rapid growth and significant changes in consumer search behavior, implementing TikTok SEO is no longer an option but a necessity. The sooner businesses optimize their content, the better their chances of surpassing competitors and reaching the right target audience on the world’s most popular video platform.
III. TikTok SEO optimization process on search engines
To start building attractive, engaging content, the first thing you need to do is understand your target audience and what they are interested in.
Step 1: Understand the audience’s needs and search intent
You need to clearly understand the needs and goals of your brand’s target audience, what consumers want or expect from your videos, and from there, develop plans and create relevant content. For example, if you are in the fashion business, you should find out what your target audience is searching for related to your brand, and what trends are currently popular, so you can incorporate the keywords they are interested in into your video.
Additionally, before starting to build a TikTok channel with proper SEO and creating content on the platform, clearly define:
- What product or service are you offering?
- Who is your target audience, and what are they searching for on TikTok?
- How will your product or service content address their needs?
Step 2: Register a TikTok account optimized for SEO
Registering a TikTok account is not difficult; you just need to fill in the information as instructed. However, creating a TikTok account optimized for SEO requires you to create a TikTok ID that matches your channel name to position your brand on the platform and make it easier for users to find you.
Step 3: Build a TikTok channel optimized for SEO
To increase your channel’s credibility, ensure your TikTok profile is well-completed. Take the following actions:
- Fill in all the information: contact info, email, and links to other social media platforms (if available).
- Add a landing page link in your profile to direct viewers to other pages.
- Link your TikTok Shop account to unlock the store feature, which helps display products on your TikTok channel.
Step 4: Research topic keywords and related keywords
Finding popular and relevant keywords to your content is a key factor in optimizing TikTok SEO.
You can use tools to find keywords that your target customers are interested in on TikTok. Then, incorporate these keywords into your title, description, and hashtags, increasing the chances of appearing at the top of search results.
When researching and selecting TikTok keywords, consider these three criteria:
- High search volume: Keywords that are frequently searched.
- High relevance: Keywords that are directly related to your content.
- Low keyword difficulty: Ensure that the keyword is not overly saturated and still has competitive potential.
Additionally, choose a set of keywords that aligns with your goals. Here are some guidelines to help you find the right keywords:
- Target niche markets: Choose keywords with medium-to-low search volume, low keyword difficulty, and high relevance.
- Create unique content: Select keywords with high search volume, low keyword difficulty, and high relevance.
- Increase visibility and awareness: Select keywords with high search volume, low keyword difficulty, and medium relevance.
You can use the following tools to find keywords:
- Free tools: TikTok, Google Trends, Google Search box,…
- Paid tools: Ahrefs, Keyword Tool.io,…
Step 5: Use relevant keywords and hashtags
Combining keywords and using hashtags will help you optimize search content and increase video discovery. Some effective ways to use keywords and hashtags on TikTok include:
- Use trigger words in your content to improve TikTok SEO, as they encourage viewers to take actions they might not have thought about.
- Leverage small search volume hashtags to build your unique traffic.
- Use 3-6 hashtags/keywords for each piece of content.
Step 6: Review your competitors’ rankings
You can draw inspiration from competitors or influencers posting similar content. However, DO NOT copy entirely. Research, find inspiration, and create a unique identity for your brand.
Step 7: Use cliffhangers
To keep viewers engaged and encourage them to search for more content related to your videos, you can create a series and use intriguing elements to build anticipation for the next content. This strategy has been successfully applied by many content creators.
Step 8: Increase engagement for your video
TikTok allows you to connect directly with customers, so don’t forget to engage with viewers’ comments to create a friendly atmosphere. You can also use interactive features like Q&A or polls to encourage viewer participation and feedback.
Additionally, a TikTok SEO technique is to share your video on other platforms. Doing this will help expand your audience and increase traffic to your videos, ultimately bringing more people into your sales funnel.
III. Factors you should keep in mind when implementing TikTok SEO
As you delve deeper into optimizing your TikTok content for better visibility, it’s essential to understand how the platform’s algorithm works.
By grasping these factors, you can maximize your content’s reach and performance.
1. The content algorithm doesn’t rely on the number of followers
TikTok doesn’t prioritize follower count when determining which content to recommend. This means even new or less-followed accounts can reach large audiences if the content is well-optimized.
2. Optimize keywords and video titles
Keywords in the title and description play a crucial role in the video’s visibility on TikTok search results. When keywords are used correctly, your video can increase organic reach by up to 80%. Choosing and optimizing the right keywords is a critical factor in TikTok SEO.
3. Keyword suggestions in comments
TikTok supports a feature that suggests keywords based on words appearing in the comments section. When users click on these keywords, they are directed to related content. This offers an opportunity for your video to gain additional exposure through comment interaction, expanding your reach.
4. User interaction algorithm
TikTok evaluates video quality based on user interaction, such as likes, comments, and shares. The algorithm promotes videos with consistent engagement to pages like ‘For You’. This encourages businesses to focus on creating engaging content and driving user interaction.
5. Importance of watch time
Watch time is another important factor in TikTok’s algorithm. The longer viewers stay on your video, the more the algorithm favors it. When viewers watch your video till the end, TikTok tends to recommend it to more users, enhancing SEO effectiveness.
IV. Conclusion
Above is all the information about TikTok SEO. Hopefully, with all the insights provided by MKT Software, you can successfully apply it to developing your TikTok channel. Wishing you success!
