A growth strategy from scratch
- Niche selection and positioning
- Content pillars
- Personal brand vs faceless
- Where to Find Ideas and Inspiration for TikTok Content in 2025
- The YouTube Shorts Goldmine: Finding & Adapting Ideas for TikTok
- The 10K Followers in a Month Formula: Your Action Plan
- You Don't Need to Be an Expert — You Need to Be Interesting
- Where to Uncover Your Audience's Deepest Needs
1. Niche selection and positioning
If you want to grow on TikTok, forget the idea of being everything for everyone. You need focus. Choosing a clear niche is the first real step toward building an audience — and building it fast.
Think of the algorithm like a matchmaker. The more specific your content is, the easier it is for TikTok to show it to the right people. In fact, studies show that creators who consistently post within a narrow niche are more likely to hit the FYP and build loyal followings early on.
Think of the algorithm like a matchmaker. The more specific your content is, the easier it is for TikTok to show it to the right people. In fact, studies show that creators who consistently post within a narrow niche are more likely to hit the FYP and build loyal followings early on.
- A secret? A systematic approach.
- Today I will tell you how to repeat this result, even if you are a beginner.
Understanding the TikTok Audience
- TikTok isn’t just for teens doing dances anymore. It’s grown into a global hub for all sorts of communities — from parents sharing cooking hacks to retirees talking about investing. People come here to laugh, learn, get inspired, or just kill time.
That’s the beauty of it. No matter what you’re into — fitness, DIY crafts, finance, skincare, or astrology — there’s likely a ready-made audience already on TikTok waiting for that kind of content.
- And if you hit the right note, the platform can push your video in front of thousands of viewers, even if you’re just starting from scratch.
But here's the twist: TikTok runs on trends.
Content moves fast. One week everyone’s obsessed with shadow work prompts, the next it’s about cleaning hacks or AI tools. If you catch a trend at the right moment, it can send your niche content skyrocketing. Miss it, and your video might just float in the void
So yes, picking a niche is about what you love — but it’s also about staying relevant and being ready to ride waves when they come.
Here you can see popular topics in TikTok
Anti-Example: The Perfectionist Spiral
This is a trap I’ve seen way too often — and maybe you’ve been there too.
You get super inspired, binge-watch successful TikTokers, and suddenly feel like this is it.
You batch record 10 videos in one weekend, full of energy. Then… you start overthinking. You rewatch each video a dozen times. You tweak the captions.
Rethink the lighting. Scrap and reshoot.
And in the end? You don’t post any of them. This kind of perfectionism kills momentum. TikTok is a quantity and quality game. You learn by doing — not by hoarding drafts.
This is a trap I’ve seen way too often — and maybe you’ve been there too.
You get super inspired, binge-watch successful TikTokers, and suddenly feel like this is it.
You batch record 10 videos in one weekend, full of energy. Then… you start overthinking. You rewatch each video a dozen times. You tweak the captions.
Rethink the lighting. Scrap and reshoot.
And in the end? You don’t post any of them. This kind of perfectionism kills momentum. TikTok is a quantity and quality game. You learn by doing — not by hoarding drafts.
Finding the Right (and Profitable) Niche
- Let’s be honest — if you’re reading this, chances are you’re not just here for fun. You want to grow an audience and make money doing it. So let’s talk about what actually works — and how to spot a niche that’s both engaging and profitable.
The best place to start? Market research.
Sounds boring, but here it just means opening TikTok and doing what you probably already do — scrolling. But this time, scroll with intention.
- Ask yourself:
- Which accounts consistently get tons of views and engagement?
- What topics keep showing up in your feed?
- Which hashtags are trending over and over again?
- Think of it like learning from people who’ve already cracked the code. You're not here to copy — you’re here to reverse-engineer.
What to Look For When Researching Niches
Trending hashtags
These are your signposts. If you notice certain tags popping up again and again — like #booktok, #smallbusinesstips, or #manifestation — that’s a clue the niche is active right now. It’s like seeing a long line outside a restaurant: maybe it's worth checking out.
High-performing content
Watch the structure. Are creators using voiceovers, subtitles, trending sounds? Do they stitch other creators or repost viral clips with a twist? These are the building blocks of viral TikTok content — and they can work in almost any niche.
Brand campaigns
Yes, you’re probably not a brand — yet. But big companies spend money testing what works. If you see certain types of videos being pushed by brands (like storytelling + product, or advice + discount), that’s a sign there’s buying behavior attached to that niche.
High-performing content
Watch the structure. Are creators using voiceovers, subtitles, trending sounds? Do they stitch other creators or repost viral clips with a twist? These are the building blocks of viral TikTok content — and they can work in almost any niche.
Brand campaigns
Yes, you’re probably not a brand — yet. But big companies spend money testing what works. If you see certain types of videos being pushed by brands (like storytelling + product, or advice + discount), that’s a sign there’s buying behavior attached to that niche.
High-performing content
Niche 1: MOTIVATION
Still booming. And not just "you got this" quotes — we’re talking original text overlays, AI voices, dark backgrounds, and bold messages that stop the scroll. For example, the account Motive Focus grew to over 50,000 followers with fewer than 20 posts by using unique filters and strong hooks.
Example of motivation videos
Niche 2: HEALTH AND WELLNESS
A goldmine for content diversity. One day it’s 10-minute workouts, the next — gut health hacks or mental health check-ins. And it's super monetizable:
- Affiliate links (like yoga mats or supplements)
- Sponsored posts for wellness brands
- Selling your own digital products (ebooks, fitness plans, etc.)
Example of health and wellness videos
Niche 3: FINANCE & WEALTH
Maybe the most evergreen niche of all. People always want to make, save, and manage money. Within this space, there are endless sub-niches:
- Budgeting & saving hacks
- High-income skills
- Side hustle ideas
- How to pay off debt
- Taxes for beginners
- Investing for Gen Z
Niche 4: Pets: Cute + Strategy = Goldmine
Yes, TikTok loves pets. But don’t let the fluff fool you — viral pet content often follows a formula.
- Short intros ("Meet my cat who acts like a dog")
- Quirky habits ("My dog fake coughs for attention")
- Voiceovers or text-to-speech (narrating the pet’s POV)
- Emotional arcs (rescued animals, transformations)
- Stat check:Videos with pets had on average 25% higher watch-through rates than general content — especially if there’s humor or story.
And monetization? It’s more than just views:- Affiliate links for pet products
- Sponsored posts with pet brands
- Merch (“my cat is the CEO” shirts)
- Even digital stickers or “fan club” donations for famous pets
Example of pets videos
Niche 5: Comedy: Still the King of Engagement
- Let’s not overthink it — people open TikTok to laugh. Comedy content has always been at the top of the food chain here. But the landscape has shifted.
It’s not about doing stand-up or being a natural-born comedian. It's about being relatable, weird, or even painfully awkward — in a way that makes people say, “OMG, this is so me.”
There are different flavors:- Situational skits (awkward Zoom meetings, toxic relationships, Gen Z vs Millennials)
- POVs with trending audio
- Dry, deadpan humor
- Parodies of niche communities (like “girl dinner” or “corporate speak”)
Example of comedy videos
Example: @CorporateNatalie grew a massive following by making short, dry corporate jokes — and turned it into a full-time brand with sponsorships and merch.
But here’s a common mistake: trying to “be funny” in a vacuum.
But here’s a common mistake: trying to “be funny” in a vacuum.
Anti-example: People who just lip-sync to trending audios without context. No setup, no twist, no personal angle — it falls flat. It’s not enough to use a trend; you have to own it.
Videos of @CorporateNatalie
Niche 6: Gifts & Tech: Viral If You Show, Not Tell
This niche is about “I didn’t know I needed this… but now I do.” Think aesthetic gadgets, unboxings, or “Amazon finds” — but again, with a twist.
What works:
Common pitfall?
Overcomplicating it.
What works:
- Clean visuals, no talking
- ASMR unboxings
- Text overlays with problem > solution format
- Speedy edits (nothing over-explained)
Common pitfall?
Overcomplicating it.
Anti-example: Talking head videos where someone rambles about a tech item for 90 seconds before showing it. TikTok users scroll fast — you’ve got 3 seconds to impress.
And remember — this niche is a monetization machine.
You can:
And remember — this niche is a monetization machine.
You can:
- Use affiliate links (Amazon Influencer Program, etc.)
- Partner with drop-shipping brands
- Launch your own Shopify store once you gain trust
Niche 7: Exploring the Unconventional
Not into finance, pets, or jokes? Good. TikTok thrives on the weird and oddly specific. Niches like:
Stat nugget: TikTok’s algorithm often boosts niche content more than general content — because it creates tight-knit communities. The smaller the niche, the more loyal the followers.
And the best part? These audiences love to buy from creators they trust. Digital products, journals, readings, planners, stickers — there’s real money in the margi
- WitchTok (crystals, spells, aesthetic tarot pulls)
- MushroomTok (yes, people are obsessed with fungi)
- Stoicism for Zoomers (quotes + memes + dark music)
- Tiny homes and van life aesthetics
- Stationery hauls, pen reviews, digital note setups
Stat nugget: TikTok’s algorithm often boosts niche content more than general content — because it creates tight-knit communities. The smaller the niche, the more loyal the followers.
And the best part? These audiences love to buy from creators they trust. Digital products, journals, readings, planners, stickers — there’s real money in the margi
So… How Do You Actually Find Your Niche?
- It starts with this mindset shift: Your niche isn’t something you pick. It’s something you grow into.
You don’t have to know exactly what it is on Day 1. Instead:- Start broad, test ideas, and see what gets traction
- Pay attention to which videos feel easy and fun to make
- Watch what people comment: “We need more of this,” “This is so helpful,” “You should make a series"
- The overlap between what people want to see and what you like to make? That’s your niche. It’s not a genre. It’s your lane.
Cheat code: Pick 2–3 content styles (like "storytime," "tutorial," or "aesthetic + text") and 2–3 topics you enjoy. Mix and match. See what clicks.
And don’t overthink it. Your first niche isn’t your final form. You can pivot. You should evolve.
Finalizing Your Niche Choice
So, you've explored different directions, maybe even posted a few videos — now it's time to lock in your niche (at least for the next stage). Here's a quick gut-check guide to make sure you're not walking into a dead-end.
1. Is There an Audience for This?
TikTok is built on attention — and you can’t get attention without people actually wanting the content you're making.
Let’s say you’re into copywriting tips. Great niche for Twitter. Maybe even LinkedIn. But on TikTok? That’s a tough sell. Most people are here for laughs, aesthetics, or quick dopamine hits. If you want to teach something, wrap it in entertainment — fun facts, challenges, skits, hooks that feel like gossip.
Test yourself: Can you imagine someone accidentally stumbling on your video, watching it all the way through, and sharing it with a friend? If not — your niche might be too narrow.
TikTok is built on attention — and you can’t get attention without people actually wanting the content you're making.
Let’s say you’re into copywriting tips. Great niche for Twitter. Maybe even LinkedIn. But on TikTok? That’s a tough sell. Most people are here for laughs, aesthetics, or quick dopamine hits. If you want to teach something, wrap it in entertainment — fun facts, challenges, skits, hooks that feel like gossip.
Test yourself: Can you imagine someone accidentally stumbling on your video, watching it all the way through, and sharing it with a friend? If not — your niche might be too narrow.
2. Is the Competition Healthy?
Some competition is good — it means there’s demand. Too little and you risk building in a ghost town. But too much and you'll drown in sameness.
What you want is:
A niche that’s active, but not saturated — where you can still add your spin.
Think of it like picking a party theme. Everyone’s done “2000s nostalgia,” but maybe no one’s done “2000s fashion fails — ranked brutally by Gen Z.” Same theme, different angle.
Some competition is good — it means there’s demand. Too little and you risk building in a ghost town. But too much and you'll drown in sameness.
What you want is:
A niche that’s active, but not saturated — where you can still add your spin.
Think of it like picking a party theme. Everyone’s done “2000s nostalgia,” but maybe no one’s done “2000s fashion fails — ranked brutally by Gen Z.” Same theme, different angle.
3. Can You Make Lots of Content from This?
Especially if you’re running a faceless account — versatility is everything.
Let’s say your niche is “cool tech gadgets.” Great — but can you:
Especially if you’re running a faceless account — versatility is everything.
Let’s say your niche is “cool tech gadgets.” Great — but can you:
- Review them?
- Show reactions?
- Do skits?
- Break them down visually?
- Compare “expensive vs cheap”?
If your niche only works in one format, you’ll burn out or bore people fast.
Faceless hack: Pick a niche where formats can vary. Think: list videos, reactions, how-tos, voiceovers, memes — all within the same topic space.
Faceless hack: Pick a niche where formats can vary. Think: list videos, reactions, how-tos, voiceovers, memes — all within the same topic space.
4. Do You Actually Like This?
Sounds obvious, but a lot of people skip this part. They chase trends or what “seems smart,” then quit in two weeks.
If the content doesn’t excite you — or at least keep you curious — it’ll show. Audiences can feel when someone’s just phoning it in.
Real talk: You don’t have to be obsessed with your niche. But you should at least enjoy making the content more than scrolling past it
Sounds obvious, but a lot of people skip this part. They chase trends or what “seems smart,” then quit in two weeks.
If the content doesn’t excite you — or at least keep you curious — it’ll show. Audiences can feel when someone’s just phoning it in.
Real talk: You don’t have to be obsessed with your niche. But you should at least enjoy making the content more than scrolling past it
5. Are You Ready to Stick With It (For Now)?
Choosing a niche doesn’t mean marrying it. But it does mean committing long enough to build momentum. If you’re hopping from pets to finance to anime every week, people won’t know what your page is for — and the algorithm won’t either.
Choosing a niche doesn’t mean marrying it. But it does mean committing long enough to build momentum. If you’re hopping from pets to finance to anime every week, people won’t know what your page is for — and the algorithm won’t either.
Treat your niche like your favorite restaurant. You go there because you know what you’re going to get — and you trust it’s going to hit every time.
Narrower niches
Here’s the thing: while in some regions creators are told to “keep it broad to attract more people,” TikTok’s algorithm works better when it knows exactly who to show your content to. Narrower niches often help you reach the right viewers faster — because the algorithm understands your lane.
Let’s break that down with a few examples:
- Love to cook? Don’t just post random food clips. Go specific — plant-based recipes, quick 15-minute meals, or just desserts.
- Into business? Don’t be “the business guy.” Focus on quick startup tips, productivity hacks, or motivational advice for solo founders.
In both cases, you’re giving your audience a reason to follow you. They know what to expect, and that’s exactly what helps you grow faster.
90% of new TikTok creators who pick a clear, focused niche reach their first 10,000 followers significantly faster than those who post random content or try to copy viral creators.
90% of new TikTok creators who pick a clear, focused niche reach their first 10,000 followers significantly faster than those who post random content or try to copy viral creators.
Common Trap Alert - “Okay, I’ll just make content about my life.”
Sounds easy, right? But unless you’re already famous or naturally hilarious, that’s a very slow path.
The “just vlogging” niche only works once you've built some kind of trust or intrigue. And copying big creators? That rarely works either — what blew up for them might flop for you, because their niche, timing, and storytelling style is uniquely theirs.
Sounds easy, right? But unless you’re already famous or naturally hilarious, that’s a very slow path.
The “just vlogging” niche only works once you've built some kind of trust or intrigue. And copying big creators? That rarely works either — what blew up for them might flop for you, because their niche, timing, and storytelling style is uniquely theirs.
CONTENT PILLARS — YOUR 3–5 CORE THEMES
Once you’ve picked your niche, it’s time to choose your content pillars — the 3–5 key topics you’ll consistently post about. Think of them as the foundation of your content strategy.
They give your profile structure, keep your audience engaged, and help you avoid burnout by bringing variety without losing focus.
They give your profile structure, keep your audience engaged, and help you avoid burnout by bringing variety without losing focus.
For example, your content pillars could be:
- Educational — tips, hacks, how-tos.
- Entertaining — humor, challenges, relatable skits.
- Personal stories — behind-the-scenes, real-life wins or fails.
- Trend-driven content — reacting to viral sounds or topics.
- Q&As — answering follower questions, starting conversations.
The best creators combine value and fun. That’s the formula that keeps people watching and following.
Examples:
- Ludus (@ludus) — breaks down complex math concepts with jokes and memes. He blends learning with entertainment, making it easy to understand and fun to watch — no wonder he built a massive audience of students.
- Humphrey Yang (@humphreytalks) — explains finance and investing in plain English, often adding humor and jumping on trends. His mix of clarity + personality makes his videos go viral regularly.
How to Choose Your Content Pillars
Use this step-by-step guide to define the direction for your blog, brand, or personal account:
-
- Identify Your Interests & Skills: Make a list of topics you're both passionate about and experienced in — anything from cooking and fitness to tech, money, or personal growth. If you’re not excited about it, you’ll burn out fast.
- Analyze the Market: Look at other creators or brands in your space. What topics are oversaturated? Where’s the opportunity to do something different or better? Find the gap you can fill.
- Understand Your Audience: Who are you creating for? What do they want, need, or struggle with? The better you know them — their age, habits, goals — the easier it’ll be to make content that clicks.
-
- Check Monetization Potential. Can you make money in this niche? Explore monetization options like product sales, services, affiliate marketing, brand deals, or paid subscriptions. You want your niche to be interesting and profitable.
- Test & Adjust: Before going all-in, test your idea. Post 5–10 pieces of content, watch what resonates, and iterate based on feedback. You don’t have to get it perfect from day one.
Popular Niches
Popular Niches in 2025
- Health & fitness
- Tech & gadgets
- Finance & investing
- Online education
- Sustainability & eco-living
- If You’re a BusinessGoal: Attract customers, boost awareness, increase sales.
Recommended content pillars:- Tutorials & how-tos — show how to use your product or service.
- Customer stories & results — real people, real wins.
- Behind the scenes — production, team, values.
- Trend-driven challenges — adapt viral formats to feature your brand.
- FAQ & trust-building content — answer objections, share your mission.
- A strong mix of educational and emotional content builds both trust and attention.
- If You’re a Creator or BloggerGoal: Build a personal brand, grow followers, boost engagement.
Recommended content pillars:- Personal stories — share your life, your wins, your fails.
- Educational tips — quick hacks or guides related to your niche (beauty, fitness, cooking, etc).
- Entertaining videos — humor, reactions, challenges.
- Trending topics — memes, duets, viral moments.
- Interactive Q&As — engage your community, build connection.
- This approach keeps your content dynamic while staying true to your brand.
- If You’re Focused on Entertainment & ReactionsGoal: Go viral, grow fast, showcase personality.
Recommended content pillars:- Reactions to trends — viral videos, challenges, pop culture moments.
- Pure entertainment — funny skits, dances, memes.
- Lifestyle snippets — daily life, beauty routines, fashion.
- Audience interaction — polls, duets, comment responses.
- Product reviews or trend commentary — add your voice to the conversation.
Final Tips for Defining Your Pillars
Get clear on your main goal (sales? reach? community?).
Get clear on your main goal (sales? reach? community?).
- Choose 3–5 topics that align with both your interests and your audience’s needs.
- Mix value and entertainment.
- Track what works — and evolve with the trends.
The 4 Core Content Pillars: How to Keep Your Audience Engaged
To grow consistently on TikTok, your content needs to do more than just entertain — it has to create a connection.
That’s where the concept of content pillars comes in. These are four key formats that help you build trust, stay relevant, and keep your audience coming back. No matter what your niche is, you can use all four.
Let’s break them down:
That’s where the concept of content pillars comes in. These are four key formats that help you build trust, stay relevant, and keep your audience coming back. No matter what your niche is, you can use all four.
Let’s break them down:
- 1. Educational
This type of content is all about providing value. You teach something useful, share insights, and help your audience solve real problems.
Some examples:- How-to videos and step-by-step tutorials
- Tips and hacks your audience can use right away
- Explaining concepts or skills in simple terms
- Product reviews and honest recommendations
- Answering common questions in your niche
- 👉 Why it works: Educational content positions you as an expert. People follow those who help them save time, money, or energy — and come back for more.
- 2. Business & Offer
This is where you talk about what you do, what you offer, and why it matters — but in a way that feels helpful, not salesy.
Some ideas:- What your product or service does (and why it’s valuable)
- Why someone should buy from you (not a competitor)
- Testimonials or success stories from clients
- Before-and-after transformations
- Behind the scenes of your business
- 👉 Tip: Avoid sounding like an ad. Instead, tell stories, show results, and focus on solving your customer’s problems.
- 3. Vulnerability & Real Talk
People don’t connect with perfect — they connect with real. This content shows the human side of your brand or journey.
Things you can share:- Why you started what you’re doing
- Honest life updates (the highs and the lows)
- Your growth story: where you were, and where you are now
- A quote or message that genuinely inspires you
- 👉 Why it works: Vulnerability builds trust. The more real you are, the more people relate to you — and the stronger the connection becomes.
- 4. Entertainment
Don’t underestimate the power of simply being fun or relatable. This kind of content helps you stay visible and ride the algorithm — while giving your audience a reason to smile.
Ideas that work:- “Day in the life” vlogs or casual behind-the-scenes
- Travel, shopping, or lifestyle content
- Funny or relatable moments your audience will connect with
- Jumping on TikTok trends or sounds (but making them your own)
- Quick, light videos that are just fun to watch
- 👉 Balance is key: Even if your main focus is educational or business content, sprinkling in entertainment keeps your page engaging and dynamic.
Personal Brand vs. Faceless: What Works Better on TikTok?
Before you dive into filming, there’s one big question every creator faces:
Should you show your face — or stay anonymous?
Both paths can lead to growth, but the strategy you choose will impact not only your engagement, but also how easily you’ll be able to monetize your content later on.
Let’s break down the pros and cons — and help you avoid the most common trap beginners fall into.
Should you show your face — or stay anonymous?
Both paths can lead to growth, but the strategy you choose will impact not only your engagement, but also how easily you’ll be able to monetize your content later on.
Let’s break down the pros and cons — and help you avoid the most common trap beginners fall into.
Option 1: Personal Brand (Showing Your Face)
Option 1: Personal Brand (Showing Your Face)
If you’re comfortable being on camera — do it. TikTok’s algorithm loves authentic creators.
Showing your face builds trust, creates emotional connection, and makes your content feel more human. It also leads to higher engagement — videos with the creator’s face consistently get more likes, shares, and comments.
If you’re comfortable being on camera — do it. TikTok’s algorithm loves authentic creators.
Showing your face builds trust, creates emotional connection, and makes your content feel more human. It also leads to higher engagement — videos with the creator’s face consistently get more likes, shares, and comments.
- According to internal TikTok analytics from 2024–2025, videos with a visible creator face generate 30–45% more engagement on average than faceless content in the same niche.
Another benefit? Monetization becomes much easier. When people trust you, they’re more likely to buy from you — whether it’s a product, a course, or a service.
Option 2: Faceless Accounts (Is It Worth It?)
Faceless accounts can work — but they require more effort to stand out.
You’ll need a strong hook, high-quality visuals, and something truly unique in your delivery. Voiceovers, animations, or curated theme pages can all build an audience — but they don’t create that same personal bond.
Take @quizz_pro as an example.
This account grew to 400.000 followers using only visuals and a distinct voiceover style — no face shown. But once the creator revealed their face, engagement jumped noticeably.
You’ll need a strong hook, high-quality visuals, and something truly unique in your delivery. Voiceovers, animations, or curated theme pages can all build an audience — but they don’t create that same personal bond.
Take @quizz_pro as an example.
This account grew to 400.000 followers using only visuals and a distinct voiceover style — no face shown. But once the creator revealed their face, engagement jumped noticeably.
- 👉 The reality? People follow faces, not just facts. If your goal is long-term growth and monetization, faceless content has real limitations.
And that leads to another anti-example:
Accounts that repost viral content without adding anything original might get quick views, but they rarely build a loyal community — and usually get stuck at early growth stages or face copyright issues.
4. Where to Find Ideas and Inspiration for TikTok Content in 2025
One of the most common challenges creators face — especially in the early stages — is running out of content ideas. You open TikTok, you want to post something, you sit in front of the camera... and nothing.
Or worse: you record ten videos in a wave of motivation, rewatch them with that annoying inner perfectionist voice — and post zero.
Or worse: you record ten videos in a wave of motivation, rewatch them with that annoying inner perfectionist voice — and post zero.
Let’s fix that
In this section, I’ll walk you through where to find fresh content ideas, what to look for in competitors, how to read the comments like a pro, and even how to turn your life experience into engaging videos.
This approach works whether you're just starting or already growing your audience.
This approach works whether you're just starting or already growing your audience.
- 1. TikTok Trends
If you're ever stuck, the easiest way to get inspired is by checking what’s trending. TikTok basically gives you a roadmap — sounds, formats, challenges, and memes that are already working.
Where to find them:- The “Discover” tab inside the TikTok app — this is where trending sounds and challenges live.
- TikTok’s official trend pages (for example: “TikTok Discover: Top Trends 2025”).
- Sites like Genius.space — they regularly publish curated lists of TikTok trends with examples and breakdowns.
- How to use trends smartly:
- Don’t just copy-paste — always add your own twist or personality to stand out.
- Use trending sounds and hashtags to increase your chances of getting discovered.
- Pay attention to the kind of visuals, editing style, and tone that are catching attention right now.
- 🧠 Pro tip: Trends are great for visibility — but not all of them will align with your niche. Prioritize the ones you can naturally tie into your topic.
- 2. Competitor Research
This is probably the most underrated way to come up with content ideas — and one of the most effective. It’s not about copying. It’s about spotting patterns and opportunities.
Here’s how to do it:- Search TikTok using keywords related to your niche.
- Find 5–10 creators with 10K to 1M followers and solid engagement.
- Each week, study 3–5 of their recent videos: topics, style, formats, hooks, call-to-actions.
- What kinds of videos get the most views and comments?
- What are people responding to in the comments?
- What’s missing — what didn’t they explain, or what could you do better?
- 🚫 Anti-example:
Don’t save 100 videos to your favorites and tell yourself, “I’ll analyze them later.” You won’t. Keep your list short and stay consistent.
- 3. Your Audience = Your Goldmine
You don’t always have to guess what your audience wants. Most of the time, they’re already telling you — in the comments.
Here’s how to mine ideas from feedback:- Read the comments under your own videos and your competitors’.
- Look for repeated questions, confusion, or strong opinions.
- Create content that answers those questions, expands on hot takes, or clears up confusion.
- 🎯 Bonus strategy:Go into viral videos in your niche → sort comments by “Most liked” → find questions like “Wait, but how do you...?” or “Why didn’t they explain...?” and make your next video the answer.
- 4. Your Own Stories = Content Gold
You might think, “My life’s not that interesting.” But that’s the point — real, honest, human stories hit different. Especially when they’re relatable or show a transformation.
Try this:- Share a “first time” story: “How I first tried X and totally messed it up.”
- Talk about failures and lessons: “My biggest mistake — and how it helped me grow.”
- Share tiny personal moments: “A small mindset shift that changed how I approach Y.”
- Use basic storytelling structure: setup → conflict → turning point → takeaway
- 🙅♀️ Anti-example:Don’t over-edit your story to sound perfect. People connect with vulnerability, not with a polished PR version of your life.
- 5. Use Tools (But Don’t Rely Only on Them)
If you want to optimize your content with the right hashtags and trends, there are plenty of free and paid tools out there.
Try these:
How to use them:- Type in a few niche keywords.
- Get a list of trending and related hashtags.
- Add 3–5 relevant hashtags to your video description to improve reach (don’t go overboard).
- 📌 Tip: Mix broad, trending tags with more specific niche ones for better targeting
Build Your Idea Flow
If you don’t want to run out of content ideas, make idea-hunting part of your routine. Here’s a quick recap of the system:
- Keep an eye on TikTok trends via Discover and third-party sites.
- Analyze 5–10 competitors weekly and adapt what’s working.
- Read the comments — they’re often better than focus groups.
- Tell real stories from your own experience.
- Use tools to boost your reach, not to replace your creativity.
🔍 Another great way to find content ideas: comments.
Sometimes the best ideas are hiding in plain sight — right there in the comments under viral videos in your niche.
Here’s how to mine them:
Here’s how to mine them:
- Go to top-performing videos in your niche.
- Open the comments section and sort by “Most liked” or “Most relevant.”
- Look for questions that the video didn’t answer.
- Watch for phrases like:
- “But how do you actually do this?”
- “Why didn’t they show this part?”
- “Can someone explain this more?”
- 🎯 That’s your next content idea— just give people the info they’re already asking for.
Your future topics are already waiting in those comments — you just need to notice them
Examples of interaction with the audience
The YouTube Shorts Goldmine: Finding & Adapting Ideas for TikTok
Alright, let's talk about a seriously underrated hack for an endless stream of content ideas: YouTube Shorts. Think of it as TikTok's slightly less chaotic cousin. And why is it a goldmine?
- Similar Algorithms: TikTok and YouTube Shorts algorithms are like siblings. They reward similar things – quick engagement, watch time, and shareability.
- Less Competition (Sometimes): In certain niches, Shorts might be less saturated than TikTok, meaning you can spot rising trends or unique angles before they blow up on TikTok.
An example of a video that was posted on tiktok and YouTube
How to Use This Method (The Smart Way):
-
- Dive into Shorts: Open YouTube Shorts and start searching for your topic or niche.
- Look for Hidden Gems: Pay attention to videos that are pulling in 100K+ views even if the channel has a relatively small number of subscribers. This is a huge indicator that the content itself is strong, not just the creator's existing fame.
- Adapt, Don't Just Copy, for TikTok: This is key. What works on Shorts needs a little TikTok-ification:
- Even More Dynamic Editing: TikTok generally demands a faster pace. Cut quicker, use more transitions.
- Stronger First Frame/Hook: You have even less time to grab attention on TikTok. Make that first second count with something visually arresting or a bold statement.
- Clear, Punchy Title/Text Overlay: TikTok viewers often rely more on on-screen text. Make your titles super clear and benefit-driven.
- The Payoff: Videos that have already proven themselves on Shorts often take off on TikTok when adapted correctly. You're essentially pre-validating your content ideas.
- Later in this guide, we'll walk through a specific example of finding a high-performing Short and adapting it step-by-step for TikTok, so you can see this in action.
Anti-Example: The "Rip and Re-upload" Fail
A common mistake is just downloading a popular Short and re-uploading it directly to TikTok without any changes. This rarely works well. Why?
The goal is inspiration and adaptation, not blatant copying
A common mistake is just downloading a popular Short and re-uploading it directly to TikTok without any changes. This rarely works well. Why?
- Platform Nuances: Each platform has its own vibe and what users expect. A direct re-upload can feel out of place.
- Algorithm Penalties: TikTok's algorithm can sometimes detect unoriginal, repurposed content and limit its reach.
- Missed Opportunity: You're missing the chance to add your unique spin, branding, or a call-to-action relevant to your TikTok audience.
The goal is inspiration and adaptation, not blatant copying
Your Idea Generation System: ChatGPT + TikTok Creative Center + YouTube Shorts
Think of these three tools as your personal content strategy team:
- YouTube Shorts: For finding proven video concepts and formats.
- TikTok Creative Center (and your FYP): For understanding current TikTok-specific trends, sounds, and what's resonating right now on the platform.
- ChatGPT (or any AI writing tool): For brainstorming variations, scripting, and overcoming creative blocks.
- Brainstorming Matrix Idea: Try a simple formula like: 3 Content Formats (e.g., tutorial, story, reaction) x 3 Audience Problems x 3 Desired Outcomes/States = 27 initial ideas to explore.
The result: Videos that go on Shorts often take off on TikTok. .Give an example of such a search and content adaptation later
The "Save and Analyze" Habit:
Whenever a video (on TikTok or Shorts) genuinely hooks you, save it. But don't just let it sit in your saved folder. Actively analyze its structure:
- Hook: What made you stop scrolling in the first 1-3 seconds? Was it a question, a shocking statement, a visual? How long did the hook last?
- Reason to Stay (Value Proposition): Why did you keep watching? What promise was made or implied?
- Unique Selling Proposition (USP) / Core Message: What was the main takeaway or unique angle?
- Call to Action (CTA): Was there one? Was it direct or subtle? (e.g., "follow for more," "comment below," "check the link in bio").
Your Action Plan
So, you want to hit that 10,000-follower milestone in about a month? It's ambitious, but definitely doable with the right strategy. It’s not just about posting randomly and hoping for the best. You need a clear, consistent approach that leverages how TikTok actually works.
Let's break down the formula. This isn't just a list of tips; it's a comprehensive strategy based on trend analysis, competitor insights, and genuine audience engagement.
Let's break down the formula. This isn't just a list of tips; it's a comprehensive strategy based on trend analysis, competitor insights, and genuine audience engagement.
- 1. Consistency is Non-Negotiable: Minimum 1 Video Per Day.
- Why? The TikTok algorithm favors active creators. Regular, daily uploads significantly increase your chances of landing on the For You Page and sparking organic growth. More quality content means more lottery tickets for virality.
- Example: Many creators, like Aizhan Nur (hypothetical example based on your text), hit 10K by committing to daily uploads and rapidly capitalizing on emerging trends
- 2. Strategic Content Plan: Your 3-5 Content Pillars.
- Why? Planning your core themes in advance helps you stay diverse without losing focus, and it prevents burnout. Rotate between educational, entertaining, personal, and trend-driven content to keep your feed fresh.
- Example: Finance expert Humphrey Yang masterfully blends valuable financial advice with humor and current trends, making his content highly shareable and viral. He doesn't just stick to one note; he plays the whole song.
- 3. Trend Integration: Ride the Wave, But Make It Yours.
- Why? Trends are TikTok's lifeblood. Using trending sounds, effects, and challenges gets your content in front of more eyes. However, the key is adaptation, not blind copying.
- How? Constantly monitor the "Discover" tab and specialized trend-watching sites. When you find a trend that fits, infuse it with your unique style, niche, and personality.
- Example: Successful TikTokers don't just replicate trends; they add their unique flavor, making them stand out from the crowd.
- 4. Competitor Analysis: Learn from What's Working (and What's Not).
- Why? Your competitors (or creators in similar niches) are a fantastic source of insight. Analyzing their wins and misses can save you a lot of trial and error.
- How? Identify 5-10 accounts in your niche with an engaged audience. Weekly, review their recent content: What topics, formats, and hashtags are performing best? What common questions are their audiences asking? Adapt the best ideas, always adding your unique value.
- Anti-Example: The "Post and Ghost" Mistake
Some creators post a video and then immediately close the app, never checking comments or analytics. This is a huge missed opportunity.- You miss valuable feedback: Comments can give you ideas for future content or highlight what your audience loves (or hates).
- You can't iterate: Without looking at what works, you're just guessing with each new video.
- You don't build community: Engagement is key to loyalty. Treat each video as a learning opportunity.
- 5. Collaborations and Cross-Promotion: Expand Your Reach.
- Why? Tapping into other creators' audiences is a powerful way to grow.
- How?
- Collaborate: Partner with creators in your niche or complementary niches for joint videos, duets, or shoutouts.
- Cross-Promote: Share your TikTok content on other platforms like Instagram (Reels, Stories), YouTube (Shorts), or even relevant Facebook groups to drive additional traffic.
- Analytics- look at statistics daily: which videos are coming in better, how much the audience is retained, and adjust the content.
Your 10K in 30 Days Checklist:
- Daily Posting: Are you committed to at least one quality video per day?
- Content Pillars: Do you have 3-5 core themes you're rotating?
- Trend Savvy: Are you actively finding and adapting trends to your niche?
- Competitor Insights: Are you regularly analyzing 5-10 relevant accounts for inspiration (not for copying)?
- Active Engagement: Are you responding to comments, asking questions, and making your audience feel heard?
- Analytics Review: Are you checking your stats daily and adjusting your strategy based on what the data tells you?
- Collaboration & Cross-Promotion: Are you looking for opportunities to collaborate and share your content on other platforms?
- Avoiding Pitfalls: Are you steering clear of direct copying and the "post and ghost" mentality?
Step | What to do specifically | Example / tip |
Regularity | 1 video per day | Aizhan Nur |
Content plan | 3-5 topics, alternate | Humphrey Yang |
Trends | Use up-to-date sounds and challenges, and adapt them | Add unique elements |
Competitor Analysis | Select 5-10 accounts and study successful videos | Weekly content analysis |
Interaction | Respond to comments, make video responses, and take surveys | Increased engagement |
Analytics | View daily statistics and adjust your strategy | Use TikTok Analytics |
Collaborations and cross-promos | Joint videos, promotion on other platforms | Expanding your audience |
🧩 TikTok is not about “I know everything,” but “I walk the path and share.”
People subscribe not to knowledge, but to attitude.
Better is “how I try to earn $100 in TikTok Shop“ than ”10 ways to monetize".
You Don't Need to Be an Expert — You Need to Be Interesting
One of the biggest mental blocks for new creators is the belief that you need to be a world-class expert in your chosen niche to succeed.
Let me bust that myth right now: on TikTok, it's far more important to be interesting, authentic, and a good storyteller than it is to be the most knowledgeable person in the room.
Think about it: many of the most popular TikTokers are regular people simply sharing their experiences, emotions, funny moments, or unique perspectives. They're not necessarily PhDs or industry gurus.
Let me bust that myth right now: on TikTok, it's far more important to be interesting, authentic, and a good storyteller than it is to be the most knowledgeable person in the room.
Think about it: many of the most popular TikTokers are regular people simply sharing their experiences, emotions, funny moments, or unique perspectives. They're not necessarily PhDs or industry gurus.
- Heads up: We'll dive into specific studies later, but research consistently shows that content with high emotional engagement – like humor, personal vulnerability, or relatable struggles – often gets significantly more views, comments, and shares than dry, overly "expert" videos. TikTok's algorithm thrives on content that makes people feel something.
Furthermore, TikTok is a platform that celebrates creativity and originality. Your unique personality and how you present information can be far more engaging than just reciting facts.
So, don't be afraid to experiment, show your true self, and create content that you genuinely enjoy making. That's how you'll attract an audience that truly connects with you.
So, don't be afraid to experiment, show your true self, and create content that you genuinely enjoy making. That's how you'll attract an audience that truly connects with you.
Anti-Example: The "Know-It-All" Bore
We've all seen those videos where someone drones on, using jargon and complex explanations, clearly trying to prove how much they know. Often, these videos have low watch time and few comments.
Why? Because they're not connecting on a human level. They might be informative, but they're not interesting in the way TikTok defines it. Remember, people scroll fast. You need to entertain or intrigue them, not just lecture them.
We've all seen those videos where someone drones on, using jargon and complex explanations, clearly trying to prove how much they know. Often, these videos have low watch time and few comments.
Why? Because they're not connecting on a human level. They might be informative, but they're not interesting in the way TikTok defines it. Remember, people scroll fast. You need to entertain or intrigue them, not just lecture them.
- Where to Uncover Your Audience's Deepest Needs (and Content Ideas):Beyond just looking at trends, you need to understand what your potential audience is actively searching for, struggling with, or curious about. Here are a few places to play detective:
-
- Instagram:
Look at the topic highlights/suggestions beneath the search bar that relate to your niche.
Analyze posts within those topics that have the highest engagement (likes, comments, shares). What questions are being asked? What pain points are being addressed?
-
- TikTok (Deeper Dive):
Crucially, filter your search results to "Last 30 days" to see what's currently resonating.
Pay attention to the "Others searched for" suggestions that TikTok provides – these are direct clues to what people are looking for
-
- Quora:
Search for your niche. Quora will generate a ton of real questions people are asking, often with detailed answers you can simplify or react to in a TikTok format.
The key is to listen more than you talk. Your audience's needs are the roadmap to content that truly serves them and, in turn, grows your account.
Conclusion: Your Blueprint for TikTok Growth
So, let's bring it all home. Growing on TikTok from scratch isn't about magic, luck, or having a massive budget. It’s the result of a systematic approach and consistent effort.
Choosing a narrow niche and establishing clear positioning helps the TikTok algorithm understand exactly who to show your content to, accelerating your initial reach. Building your strategy around 3-5 core content pillars, blending valuable information with entertainment, is key to keeping your audience engaged and growing steadily – as we've seen from countless successful creators.
Choosing a narrow niche and establishing clear positioning helps the TikTok algorithm understand exactly who to show your content to, accelerating your initial reach. Building your strategy around 3-5 core content pillars, blending valuable information with entertainment, is key to keeping your audience engaged and growing steadily – as we've seen from countless successful creators.
Don't be afraid to show your face and build a personal brand. It fosters trust and drives significantly higher engagement. While faceless accounts can work with exceptional content, they often face greater challenges with monetization because that personal connection is missing.
Ideas for your videos are everywhere if you know where to look: current TikTok trends, the comments section of your own and competitors' videos, and the often-overlooked goldmine of YouTube Shorts offer endless inspiration when adapted thoughtfully.
Ideas for your videos are everywhere if you know where to look: current TikTok trends, the comments section of your own and competitors' videos, and the often-overlooked goldmine of YouTube Shorts offer endless inspiration when adapted thoughtfully.
My formula for hitting 10K followers in a month is straightforward:
Consistency in posting (daily, if possible) + Smart adaptation of trends to YOUR niche + Genuine interaction with your audience + Constant analysis of your results.
And perhaps the most liberating principle of all: You don't have to be an expert to be interesting. Authenticity, creativity, and the ability to tell a compelling story are valued far more on TikTok than a formal title or years of experience.
Consistency in posting (daily, if possible) + Smart adaptation of trends to YOUR niche + Genuine interaction with your audience + Constant analysis of your results.
And perhaps the most liberating principle of all: You don't have to be an expert to be interesting. Authenticity, creativity, and the ability to tell a compelling story are valued far more on TikTok than a formal title or years of experience.
In 2025 and beyond, success on TikTok is about your ability to adapt quickly, experiment boldly, and create content that resonates with real people on a human level.
Follow these principles, put in the work, and those first 10,000 followers (and many more beyond that) won't be far behind.
You've got this!
Follow these principles, put in the work, and those first 10,000 followers (and many more beyond that) won't be far behind.
You've got this!