TikTok is the go-to platform for viral content, where sounds, hashtags, and challenges can skyrocket to global fame overnight. But have you ever wondered what makes a specific sound or hashtag go viral on TikTok? Understanding how trends work can help creators and brands capitalize on viral moments and boost engagement.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key factors that drive virality on TikTok, so you can jump on trends early and make your content stand out.
1. Catchy Sounds with Mass Appeal
The magic of TikTok often lies in its music. A catchy sound can quickly become the foundation for a viral trend. Whether it’s a popular song, a funny audio clip, or a remix, TikTok’s algorithm promotes content that uses trending sounds. If users start incorporating a specific sound into their videos, the algorithm boosts it, creating a snowball effect.
Songs that have an infectious beat, relatable lyrics, or just something quirky and memorable are perfect for TikTok. Many viral sounds are paired with specific dance moves or challenges, making them easy for users to join in on.
Tip: Pay attention to TikTok’s trending sounds in the Discover tab, and jump on them early. By using a trending sound in your video, you increase your chances of getting noticed.
2. Relatable and Shareable Content
Virality depends on how relatable or shareable the content is. Trends that resonate with everyday experiences—like jokes about work, relationships, or daily struggles—are more likely to spread. Users are more inclined to share content that makes them laugh, nod in agreement, or think, "That’s so me!"
Hashtags that connect with a broad audience or tap into universal experiences tend to gain traction quickly. The easier it is for people to relate to the trend and make their own version of it, the more likely it is to go viral.
Tip: Focus on creating content that speaks to universal experiences. The more your video can connect with users’ daily lives, the more likely they are to share it.
3. Simple, Repeatable Challenges
TikTok loves a good challenge, and one of the hallmarks of viral trends is simplicity. Challenges that are easy to replicate, require minimal props, or involve basic dance moves tend to catch on quickly. This allows users of all ages and skill levels to participate, which helps the trend spread like wildfire.
Challenges that are visually engaging and fun to do make users want to create their own versions, which means more people using the sound or hashtag, and thus more visibility.
Tip: When creating or participating in a challenge, keep it simple and engaging. Make sure the steps or actions are easy enough for anyone to replicate.
4. Strong Community Involvement
TikTok thrives on its sense of community, and trends that involve collaboration often go viral. This could be through duets, stitches, or challenges that encourage users to add their own twist. When a sound or hashtag encourages people to work together or build off each other's content, it increases engagement and helps the trend spread across the platform.
For example, a viral hashtag might start with one type of content and evolve as users put their own spin on it, leading to new iterations of the trend.
Tip: Create content that invites interaction—whether through duets, stitches, or by asking viewers to recreate or respond to your video.
5. Timing and Frequency
Timing is everything when it comes to TikTok trends. Jumping on a trend early significantly boosts your chances of going viral. Once a trend is too saturated, it’s harder for new videos to stand out. Monitoring TikTok daily for emerging sounds and hashtags gives you a head start in hopping onto a trend.
Additionally, posting frequently can increase your chances of getting on the For You Page (FYP), where trends are discovered. Consistency keeps your account active and ensures you're always in the loop for potential viral moments.
Tip: Keep a close eye on the Discover page and act fast when you notice new trends. The earlier you join, the more visibility you’ll get.
6. Effective Use of Hashtags
Hashtags play a huge role in how videos are discovered on TikTok. Popular or trending hashtags make it easier for users to find your content and allow the algorithm to categorize your video in a way that gets it in front of the right audience.
Using a mix of trending hashtags along with niche tags relevant to your content increases the chances of reaching both a broad and targeted audience.
Tip: Use a combination of trending and niche-specific hashtags in your videos. This boosts your chances of being seen by both general TikTok users and your target audience.
7. Emotional Connection
Viral content often stirs an emotional reaction, whether it’s laughter, nostalgia, excitement, or even empathy. Videos that evoke strong emotions are more likely to be shared and commented on, increasing engagement and extending the trend’s reach. TikTok trends that tug at the heartstrings or make users feel something are often the ones that go viral the quickest.
Tip: Aim to create content that elicits an emotional response—whether that’s humor, joy, or inspiration.
Final Thoughts
Going viral on TikTok isn’t just about luck. It’s about understanding what makes trends catch on and leveraging the right sound, hashtag, or challenge at the right time. By using catchy audio, relatable content, easy-to-replicate challenges, and fostering community involvement, you can increase your chances of riding the next big TikTok wave.
Now that you know what makes a sound or hashtag go viral, it’s time to start creating and get your content out there!
