Two Things to consider if you want to generate revenue from Tiktok as a new content creator
Insights from a Content Creator and SEO Professional
When I first started making TikToks, my videos were automatically pushed by the algorithm and typically received at least 4,000 views. If any of my videos hit a 10% engagement threshold (likes, comments, and shares making up 10% of the total views), it stayed in the algorithm’s loop—commonly known as the “For You Page” (FYP).
As a new TikTok creator, this is what you can expect: your videos will initially receive more views than those of users who have been on the platform for a while. Your videos will have a better chance of staying on the FYP longer.
My advice to new TikTok content creators is this: Don’t waste this opportunity. Before posting, make sure you know exactly who your target audience is and have clear, concise video formats ready to test. This will help you attract followers who truly connect with your content from the very beginning.
I officially joined TikTok in 2022, though I spent a few months observing beforehand. I can’t say for certain if the algorithm will work the same way when new users join now, in 2024. However, one thing I do know is that TikTok aims to help new creators “enjoy” the platform by maximizing their interactions. The idea is that if creators receive a lot of engagement early on, they’ll stick around. So, while I don’t think TikTok will drastically change this approach for new creators, there could be slight adjustments—like starting with 3,000 views instead of 4,000.
A Quick Guide for New Tiktok Content Creators
As I mentioned earlier, two key things are crucial before creating your first TikTok video—especially if your goal is to build a community or generate revenue. If you’re joining TikTok just for fun without the intention of making money, you don’t need to worry about these recommendations.
Two things to consider prior to creating your first Tiktok video
- Know your Target Audience — Part of understanding your target audience is knowing how to attract them using the right hashtags and keywords in your video content. Be intentional with your hashtag choices, as they help your videos appear on the For You Pages (FYP) of people who follow or engage with similar hashtags. Combining relevant hashtags with mentions in your video will increase its visibility to the right audience.For example, on my TikTok channel, I have two main target audiences: moms and health-conscious users. My primary hashtags are #moms and #healthyliving. From these main hashtags, I expand to others by using TikTok’s auto-complete feature or checking out what similar creators are using.
- Auto-complete: When you start typing a hashtag, TikTok will suggest related hashtags. If the suggestion fits your content, use it.
- Hashtags from Similar Creators: Your TikTok feed, commonly known as the “For You Page” (FYP), shows videos you interact with—whether by liking, commenting, or sharing. TikTok also considers how long you watch certain types of content. Pay attention to the hashtags used in videos similar to yours and adopt them if they are a good match.
- Tiktok Search Bar: Use the search bar to explore hashtags, it will give you a lot of great ideas, use the hashtags that fit your content and your target audience
- Have video formats ready to test — It took me over six months to get truly comfortable on TikTok. It might take you less time—or more. But if you’re on TikTok to generate revenue, you don’t have six months to spare. Before you even start posting, create a video format that you think will resonate with your audience and suits your content. As you post daily, you’ll naturally refine your style and find your flow, which is when things really start to take off.
For example, on my TikTok channel, I use three different formats:
- Sales Format: I put on my sales hat and talk directly about the product and its benefits.
- Information Format: I share insights related to my industry. After every three or four sales videos, I make an informational one.
- Food Format: This is similar to my informational content but focuses on food. For every three or four sales videos, I create a food-related one.
It took me awhile to settle on these formats. As someone using TikTok to generate income, I believe providing free, valuable information to your audience is key. It helps build a community of users who trust you, which is essential for long-term success.
If you’ve just started Tiktok, I hope these tips are helpful and if you need more insights, please let me know.
