TikTok has rapidly become one of the most influential social media platforms, attracting over 1 billion active users worldwide. Known for its short-form, engaging videos, it’s no longer just a space for trendy dances or viral challenges — it’s a powerhouse for businesses, creators, and brands looking to connect with their audience in innovative ways. Whether you’re a local shop in Portsmouth or a global brand, mastering TikTok can be a game-changer.

The platform’s unique algorithm levels the playing field, offering small creators and businesses the same opportunity for virality as established influencers. This makes TikTok an invaluable tool for those who want to build a following, boost engagement, and drive real-world results. From brand awareness to increased website traffic, TikTok’s potential extends far beyond the app itself.

At Delivered Social, we’ve seen firsthand how effective TikTok can be. Our own page showcases the power of consistent, creative content, and we help clients craft strategies tailored to this vibrant platform. Whether it’s leveraging trends, creating impactful video templates, or engaging with followers, TikTok offers an unparalleled opportunity to grow your online presence.

 

Understanding TikTok’s Algorithm

TikTok’s algorithm is the magic behind the platform’s viral success. At its core is the For You Page (FYP), a personalised feed that showcases content tailored to each user’s interests. Unlike other platforms where followers dictate visibility, TikTok’s FYP gives everyone a chance to shine, making it the ultimate tool for growth.

The algorithm evaluates multiple factors, such as user interactions, video information (captions, hashtags, and sounds), and device details, to decide which content to display. This means your videos don’t just reach your followers—they can land on the FYP of thousands, even millions, of potential new fans.

To optimise your content for discoverability:

• Engage early: TikTok prioritises videos with high engagement shortly after posting. Respond to comments quickly and encourage interaction.
• Leverage trends: Use trending sounds and hashtags to align with popular content.
• Create short, captivating videos: The first 3 seconds are crucial—hook your audience immediately.
• Post consistently: The algorithm rewards accounts that post frequently and at optimal times.
• Encourage re-watches and shares: Videos with strong watch times and shares are more likely to be pushed onto the FYP.

Understanding the algorithm is key to learning how to grow organically on TikTok. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to expanding your reach and building a loyal audience.

 

How to Grow Followers Organically on TikTok: Building a Strong Profile

Your TikTok profile is your digital first impression, and getting it right is crucial to how to grow followers on TikTok. A strong, professional profile not only attracts viewers but encourages them to hit that “Follow” button.

Start with an engaging bio. Keep it concise yet descriptive, highlighting who you are and what content people can expect. Use clear language and incorporate a touch of personality to make it memorable. For businesses, this could mean showcasing your niche or unique selling points. For example, “Helping small businesses thrive with social media magic .”

Next, optimise your profile picture. Whether it’s a professional logo or a friendly headshot, make sure it’s high quality and represents your brand or personality effectively. Consistency across platforms helps build brand recognition.

Leverage TikTok’s profile features to boost engagement. If eligible, add a link to your website or other social media platforms. This is a fantastic way to drive traffic and connect with followers across multiple channels.

Take advantage of the pinned videos feature to showcase your best content. Pin tutorials, your most viral videos, or content that reflects your mission. These videos act as a spotlight for new visitors, helping them understand your value quickly.

Finally, ensure your content aligns with your profile’s theme. Consistency in tone, style, and topics reassures viewers and encourages them to follow you for more of what they love.

Building a strong TikTok profile is the foundation of growing your following and engaging your audience effectively.

Content Creation Tips for TikTok Growth

Creating engaging content is the heart of TikTok success. If you want to master how to grow followers on TikTok, your videos need to stand out while keeping your audience coming back for more.

Consistency is Key
TikTok rewards creators who post regularly. Aim for 3–5 posts per week to keep your audience engaged and signal to the algorithm that you’re active. However, don’t sacrifice quality for quantity—each post should offer value, entertainment, or insight. Consistency also builds trust, encouraging viewers to follow you for more of what they enjoy.

Timing Matters
Posting at the right times can significantly boost your content’s reach. Review your TikTok analytics to identify when your audience is most active. Generally, mornings, lunchtimes, and early evenings work well. Trial and error can also help you find your sweet spot.

Embrace Trends and Challenges
TikTok thrives on trends, so keep an eye on your For You Page for inspiration. Whether it’s a popular sound, a viral challenge, or a trending hashtag, hopping on the latest trend gives your content a higher chance of visibility. Add your unique twist to stay authentic while increasing your chances of appearing on the FYP.

Create Custom Templates
Tailored content like personalised filters or templates can set your profile apart. Check out our detailed guide on Creating Your Own TikTok Templates to learn how to develop standout videos that resonate with your audience.

Experiment and Innovate
From storytelling skits to “how-to” tutorials, test different formats to see what works best. Don’t shy away from niche content—targeted, relatable videos can drive consistent engagement.

By staying consistent, leveraging trends, and crafting creative, high-quality videos, you’ll build a dynamic TikTok presence that encourages follower growth and long-term success.

 

Engaging with Your Audience to Build a Loyal Following

TikTok isn’t just about posting videos; it’s about fostering a connection with your audience. Engaging actively with viewers is one of the most effective strategies for how to grow followers on TikTok. When your followers feel valued, they’re more likely to interact with your content and become long-term supporters.

Replying to Comments
Take the time to respond to comments on your videos. Whether it’s answering a question, showing appreciation for positive feedback, or adding a touch of humour, replies can spark more conversation and engagement. Bonus tip: Use TikTok’s comment reply feature to create a video response—it’s a great way to connect with your audience while adding fresh content to your feed.

Duets and Stitches
These features let you collaborate directly with your audience or other creators. Duets allow you to place your video side-by-side with another, while Stitches let you integrate clips from other videos into your own. Using these tools not only engages your followers but also exposes your content to new audiences.

Fostering Community
Encourage viewers to participate in your content. Create challenges, ask questions, or prompt them to share their opinions. When your audience feels involved, they’re more likely to share your videos and spread the word.

Building a community through engagement turns casual viewers into loyal followers. By fostering genuine interactions, you’ll strengthen your presence on TikTok and set the foundation for long-term growth.

 

The Role of Hashtags and Trends in Growing Followers

Hashtags and trends are integral to how to grow followers on TikTok. They help your content reach the right audience and increase its chances of appearing on the For You Page (FYP). Using them effectively can give your videos the visibility they deserve.

Researching Hashtags
Start by exploring trending hashtags on TikTok’s Discover page or your For You feed. Pay attention to those relevant to your niche or the type of content you create. Tools like TikTok’s Creator Portal or external platforms like Hashtag Generator can also provide insights into popular and emerging hashtags. Combine general hashtags (#ForYou, #Viral) with niche-specific ones (#SocialMediaTips, #PortsmouthBusiness) to broaden your reach.

Using Hashtags Strategically
Avoid overloading your videos with too many hashtags. Aim for 3–5 highly relevant ones to maintain focus and increase the chances of being featured in searches or trends. Keep your captions short and engaging while seamlessly integrating hashtags.

Joining Trends and Challenges
Trends and challenges dominate TikTok, offering a golden opportunity to attract followers. Participate in popular challenges, but ensure they align with your brand. Add a unique twist to make your video stand out. This not only boosts engagement but also positions your content within trending conversations.

By leveraging hashtags and trends thoughtfully, you can extend your reach, connect with new audiences, and grow your TikTok followers organically.

 

Collaborations and Cross-Promotion

Partnering with others is a powerful way to accelerate how to grow followers on TikTok. Collaborations not only expand your reach but also introduce your content to entirely new audiences.

Partnering with Influencers and Brands
Influencers are a cornerstone of TikTok culture. Working with creators who align with your niche allows you to tap into their established follower base. Micro-influencers (those with 10k–100k followers) are particularly valuable as they often have a highly engaged audience. Reach out with personalised pitches that explain how the collaboration benefits both parties. Similarly, partnering with complementary brands can foster mutual growth by cross-promoting products or services.

Cross-Promoting on Other Platforms
Don’t limit your TikTok content to TikTok alone. Share your videos on Instagram Reels, Stories, and even YouTube Shorts to attract followers who may not yet be on TikTok. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter can also help redirect traffic to your TikTok page. Adding links to your TikTok in Instagram bios, email signatures, and other digital touchpoints is a simple but effective way to grow visibility.

Collaborative Trends and Challenges
Co-create videos or challenges with your partners to maximise engagement. When audiences see shared efforts, they’re more likely to interact and follow both parties.

Collaborations and cross-promotion are win-win strategies that build credibility, boost engagement, and grow your TikTok following organically.

 

Paid Promotions: When and How to Use TikTok Ads

For those seeking faster results, TikTok Ads are an effective tool for how to grow followers on TikTok. The platform’s advertising options allow you to reach targeted audiences, boost engagement, and accelerate growth.

Overview of TikTok Ads
TikTok offers various ad formats, including In-Feed Ads, Branded Hashtag Challenges, and TopView Ads. These allow you to showcase your content directly to users in creative and engaging ways. For smaller budgets, Spark Ads are a fantastic option—they boost your existing organic content to reach a larger audience.

Best Practices for Paid Promotions

1. Target the Right Audience: Use TikTok’s robust targeting tools to reach users based on demographics, interests, and behaviours.
2. Keep It Authentic: TikTok users value creativity and authenticity, so make sure your ads feel native to the platform.
3. Track Performance: Monitor your ad metrics to understand what works best and refine your campaigns accordingly.
4. Start Small: Experiment with a modest budget to test the waters before scaling up.

When used strategically, TikTok Ads can complement your organic efforts, helping you gain visibility and grow your followers efficiently.

FAQs: Answering Common Questions About How to Grow Followers on TikTok

1. What is the fastest way to grow followers on TikTok?
The fastest way to grow followers is by consistently posting high-quality, engaging content that aligns with TikTok trends. Use trending sounds, participate in challenges, and post during peak activity times. Collaborating with influencers or running TikTok Ads can also accelerate growth.

2. How many followers do you need to go viral on TikTok?
You don’t need a large following to go viral. TikTok’s algorithm focuses on engagement and watch time rather than follower count. Even new accounts can go viral if the content resonates with viewers.

3. Why am I not gaining followers on TikTok?
A lack of followers may stem from inconsistent posting, low engagement, or not optimising content for trends and the algorithm. Review your analytics to identify what isn’t working and experiment with new strategies.

4. What type of content grows followers on TikTok?
Content that is relatable, entertaining, or informative tends to perform well. Experiment with tutorials, behind-the-scenes videos, and storytelling. Jump on trends and use features like duets and stitches to engage with your audience.

5. How often should I post on TikTok to grow followers?
Posting 3–5 times per week is recommended to maintain consistency and keep your audience engaged. However, quality should always take precedence over quantity.

6. How can hashtags help grow followers on TikTok?
Hashtags make your content discoverable by categorising it for specific audiences. Use a mix of trending and niche-specific hashtags to maximise visibility.

7. Can paid ads help me grow followers on TikTok?
Yes, TikTok Ads, such as In-Feed Ads or Spark Ads, can increase visibility and attract new followers. Targeting specific demographics and interests ensures your ads reach the right audience.

8. How long does it take to grow followers on TikTok?
Growth on TikTok varies based on your content, consistency, and strategy. With the right approach, some accounts see rapid growth in weeks, while others may take months.

9. Is TikTok better than Instagram for follower growth?
TikTok’s algorithm provides equal opportunities for content to go viral, making it easier to grow followers organically compared to Instagram. However, the best platform depends on your target audience and goals.

10. How do I keep followers engaged on TikTok?
Interact with your audience by replying to comments, creating duets or stitches, and asking questions. Posting consistently and keeping up with trends ensures your followers stay interested in your content.