TikTok is a fascinating phenomenon:
- Fastest app to 1 billion users ever
- Most globally downloaded app three years in a row
- 70% of Gen Z actively use it daily
- Ad revenue jumped from under $1B to over $13B in three years
But here’s what almost nobody talks about:
The real secret behind TikTok’s massive success is its lightning-fast adoption of AI-driven indexing. What exactly does that mean?
TikTok instantly “watches” and “listens” to every video uploaded. It automatically transcribes everything said, turning audio into text—like subtitles on steroids. It then “understands” exactly what’s in each video—is it funny cats, dance challenges, cooking hacks, gaming clips, or something else?
Next, TikTok clearly labels and catalogs each video into a massive database. This AI-powered catalog feeds directly into the famous For You algorithm, making it extraordinarily accurate at showing people exactly what they’ll love, instantly.
So, how can you leverage this?
- Create on TikTok—use a phone!
- Have a goal to post 2 to 3 relevant videos per day
- Create a compelling hook—clearly state your topic right away (verbally or visually)
- Use emotionally engaging language throughout
- Use straightforward, easily transcribable words and clear audio
- Repeat important keywords naturally (but don't spam!)
- Cut out filler (no "um" or "uhhs")
- Use data to double down (track what hits and iterate)
- Make sure to have relevant keywords in titles/descriptions
This is why TikTok is currently the most meritocratic social platform in existence. If your content is genuinely good—strong hook, taps into high-arousal emotions, and delivers payoff—it will thrive on TikTok, even if you only have two followers.
Don't forget to utilize all the "TikTokified" social platforms, as they are typically a few iterations behind TikTok: Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, Youtube Shorts, and to a lesser extent LinkedIn and X videos.