Category: Uncategorized

  • The Most Up-To-Date Social Media Data From Buffer

    The Most Up-To-Date Social Media Data From Buffer

    This living resource curates every original data report we’ve published, from platform-specific trends to posting strategies that actually work.10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Ever scrolled through Instagram Reels and thought, “Wait, everyone’s using that same sound… and I can’t get enough of it!”

    That’s actually how I discovered Makeba by Jain back in 2023. Even though the song was originally released in 2015, it exploded years later on Instagram Reels thanks to a now-iconic combo: that beat paired with Bill Hader’s perfectly timed dance moves

    I couldn’t stop watching. Every time that audio popped up, I had to see what someone had done with it. The track has lived rent-free in my head ever since — which speaks to the power of trending audio on Instagram.

    So, whether you’re a creator trying to grow your following, a social media manager aiming to boost engagement, or a small business owner looking to connect with more people, finding trending audio on Instagram can be a simple (and surprisingly fun) way to get your content in front of new eyes.

    Wondering how to find trending audio on Instagram? 

    In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 easy ways to find trending audio on Instagram, plus some tips to help you take the trend and make it your own.

    🚀
    Want to grow your Instagram without the guesswork? Check out these 13 smart, doable strategies to get more followers in 2025.

    Social media moves, so don’t sleep on these 10 ways to find the perfect sound for your next Insta post.

    Instagram’s trending audio list shows you the top trending sounds that are gaining popularity fast on Instagram, updated every few days. Think of it like a live leaderboard of sounds everyone’s loving right now.

    Here’s how to find it:

    1. Start creating a post, story, or reel and choose your media.
    2. Tap the music icon (at the bottom for posts and reels, at the top for stories).
    3. Tap Trending to browse the top 50 tracks currently topping the charts.
    4. You'll even see whether a sound is on the rise or starting to cool off based on the little green or red trending arrows.

    (As you can see, I posted this reel around Father’s Day.)

    Pro tip: Not ready to use a song just yet? Tap the bookmark icon to save it for later. When you’re ready to post, head to the Saved tab to find all your faves in one place.

    How to access saved songs on Instagram 

    1. Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
    2. Tap the ☰ menu in the top-right corner and select Saved.
    3. Inside the Saved section, switch to the Audio tab, where all your bookmarked tracks are neatly stored.

    If a sound disappears from your Saved list, it’s probably due to licensing changes, or it’s been removed from Instagram. In that case, check the creator’s original reel to either save it again or use an alternative.

    2. Check the professional dashboard

    If you're not ready to create your post yet, another way to get the list of trending audio on Instagram is through the professional dashboard.

    Note: For now, this feature is only available for professional Instagram accounts on the Instagram mobile app in the US.

    Here’s how to find trending audio on Instagram with a professional account:

    1. Tap the Professional dashboard button on your profile.
    2. Scroll down to the Tips and resources section.
    3. Tap Trending audio.
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    3. Look for the arrow icon

    Just scrolling for now? Here’s another great way to identify the latest trending sounds on Instagram if you’re not in posting mode: If you see an upward arrow (↗️) instead of the usual music notes next to an audio track, that means it’s trending.

    Tap the track to explore

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    4. Tap on the audio title to learn more

    When you’re watching a reel, tap the audio name to view how many people are using it and get the option to use or save it.

    You have no idea how happy it made my millennial heart to discover that Alice DJ’s Better Off Alone is trending.*stops writing blog post for spontaneous dance break.*

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Pro tip: You can also add the song on Spotify using the little Add button. (Of course, this one is already in my Liked Songs.)

    While this method of finding trending sounds on Instagram isn’t a perfect science, it’s a good way to find trending audio that’s popular outside your usual feed, and maybe even discover something a little unexpected.

    Here’s how:

    1. Tap the magnifying glass to open the Explore page.
    2. Use the search bar at the top to type in something like “trending audio.”
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)
    1. Want to get more specific? Try keywords that match the vibe of your video, like “summer cocktails,” to see what other creators have used for similar videos. 
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    But, as mentioned earlier, this method isn’t foolproof. 

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    6. Follow Instagram’s Creators account

    Instagram’s @creators account is a wealth of great info and ideas for Instagram growth. They regularly publish a reels trends carousel that shares not only the latest and greatest top trending sounds creators are using, but editing tips and tricks, too. 

    Check out the IG Anthems story highlight. 

    Pro tip: Join the Creators broadcast channel to get news of Instagram’s latest features and trends sent straight to your Instagram inbox. Sign up here. 

    7. Browse the Instagram Reels feed for repeat sounds

    Looking for a guilt-free reason to scroll?. As you swipe through Instagram Reels, keep an ear out for audio you hear more than once. If a sound keeps popping up (especially in totally different types of content), it’s a good sign it’s trending. 

    Bonus points if creators are putting their own spin on the sounds — that usually means the sound has some staying power and flexibility.

    So go ahead, call it research. 😉

    [call out] Take your reels game to the next level. Here are some Instagram tips, strategies, and hacks to create, edit, and distribute your Instagram Reels in 2025. 

    8. Try third-party apps like ReelTrends or TrendTok

    Want a shortcut to what’s hot across social platforms? Tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok Analytics track trending audio across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, showing you:

    • Which sounds on Instagram and other platforms are picking up steam
    • How they’re performing over time.
    • What type of content they’re being used in
    • Predictions for what’s about to trend

    Many of these tools also let you filter by region, category, or niche, so you can tailor what’s trending to your audience.

    Note: Both apps are only available on the App Store for iPhone.

    A lot of trending audio starts on TikTok or YouTube Shorts before landing on Instagram, so keep an eye out there to give you a head start.

    To find trending reels audio on YouTube Shorts:

    1. Click the + button in the YouTube app to start creating a post.
    2. Tap Add sound at the top of the screen.
    3. Browse recommended songs and genres, or scroll down to find the Top sounds on shorts.
    4. Take note of the trending track's title and artist, and head back to Instagram to see if you can find the same sound.

    Let us do the trend-hunting for you. We keep a running list of the hottest Instagram sounds so you don’t have to chase trends from scratch every time you post.

    Whether you’re batch-creating content, stuck in a scroll spiral, or just want to stay inspired, our list is here to help.

    Pro tip: Bookmark the page so you can pop back in anytime you need a little trending audio inspo.

    Ready to work smarter (not harder) on Instagram this year? Grab these 26 free tools to help you grow your account and show up like a pro in 2025. 

    Finding trending audio on Instagram is one of the best ways to boost your content’s reach and stay current with what’s capturing people’s attention. 

    When you use a sound that’s gaining traction, your Instagram content has a better chance of being shown to more users, especially if the algorithm sees others interacting with that same viral audio. 

    People love watching different takes on the same sound

    One of the joys of Instagram Reels is seeing how different Instagram creators interpret the same audio in their own way. Whether it’s funny, heartfelt, or clever, your version adds to the conversation, and viewers love the variety.

    It gives you an easy creative starting point

    Staring at a blank screen? Finding trending audio on Instagram can be the perfect spark to get your creativity flowing, offering some structure without boxing you in.

    Pro tip: You can also save time (and prevent the blank screen effect) by using Buffer’s customizable templates. They’re a great starting point for posts, stories, and more.

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    I’ve been using templates in the latest Creator Camp challenge. Even if I end up tweaking the template, it still gets me out of writer’s block and into creator mode.  

    Joining a trend makes your brand feel more relatable and in the moment

    Using current sounds on Instagram shows that you’re paying attention, participating, and present. 

    When you use trending music, you’re potentially joining a larger conversation, challenge, or even a viral moment. It’s a chance to collaborate, connect, and be seen by new audiences.

    It shows Instagram you’re active and using the platform’s latest features

    Instagram rewards users who engage with its newest tools. It’s a subtle signal to the algorithm that you’re here, you’re creating, and you’re playing by their rules (in the best way).

    You get to have some fun

    Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just fun to jump in on a trend, try something silly, or flex your creativity. Not everything has to be strategic. Enjoying the process makes your content more engaging, too.

    Want to make the most of trending audio on Instagram? These top tips will help you use it in a way that feels authentic, creative, and gets your content seen.

    Make it your own

    Instagram loves originality, even when you’re jumping on a trend. Use trending audio, but add your own spin, story, or style to make it feel uniquely you. 

    Try a remix

    Use the remix feature to create a side-by-side video with existing content. It’s a fun way to react, add context, or show your take with humour, insight, or personality.

    Stick to the specs

    Make sure your content follows Instagram’s recommended dimensions (9:16 for Instagram Reels) and specs. It keeps your videos looking crisp and professional across devices.

    Stay true to your niche

    Not every trend is the right fit, and that’s OK. Focus on audio that aligns with your brand, message, or audience, so your content still feels on-brand and relevant.

    Add text for context

    On-screen text helps grab attention, explain your angle, and keep people watching. It’s especially helpful if your audio doesn’t immediately explain what the video is about. Use it alongside a snappy caption

    Credit where it’s due

    If you’re inspired by another creator, show some love with a tag or mention. It builds community and keeps your creative karma in good standing.

    Jump in early

    Trends move fast. Using audio early in its rise to the top gives you the best chance to reach a wider audience before it becomes overplayed. 

    Pro tip: For added reach, don’t forget to share your Instagram posts to your stories. 

    Post at the optimal time

    Post your content on Instagram when your audience is most active to give your content the best chance of being seen and engaged with. We analyzed over 2 million posts to help you do just that. 

    Keep it fun

    At the end of the day, Instagram Reels and Stories are meant to be playful and creative. Don’t stress about perfection; rather, enjoy the process and let your personality shine through. If you’re feeling a little apprehensive, try a trial reel and see how it lands. 

    Pro tip: Use Buffer’s Create Space to store trending sounds or Instagram Reels ideas for later, and when you’re ready to post, our notification publishing makes it easy to schedule everything ahead of time and add the audio natively in Instagram with just a few taps.

    [call out] Posting stories on the fly? There’s a better way. Schedule them like a pro in 2025 — we’ll show you how (it’s easier than you think). Here’s how to schedule Instagram Stories in 2025.

    Not every trend is the right fit. To make the most of what’s trending (and avoid any cringey missteps), watch out for these common mistakes.

    Using off-brand or controversial audio

    Just because a sound is trending doesn’t mean it aligns with your brand. Some trending audio might contain lyrics, memes, or associations that don’t sit well with your audience, or that could come off as insensitive, offensive, or wildly out of step with your usual tone.

    Before you hit post, do a quick vibe check:

    • Does the sound trend reflect your brand’s values and voice?
    • Will your audience understand or relate to the reference?
    • Could the lyrics or context be misunderstood?

    Jumping on a trend too late

    Timing matters. If a sound is already overused or has started to feel stale, using it might make your content feel behind the curve, not ahead of it.

    Instead:

    • Look for emerging trends on the rise (not already peaking).
    • Save sounds early so you’re ready to post quickly when inspiration hits.

    Not checking licensing (especially for business Instagram accounts)

    Business accounts on Instagram face different rules around audio. Some popular or trending songs may be restricted due to licensing, meaning you either won’t be able to use them, or your video could be muted or taken down after posting.

    To stay safe:

    • Use audio from Instagram’s royalty-free music library for businesses.
    • Look for the music note icon; if it's greyed out or missing, that sound may not be usable on your account.
    • Double-check any music used for sponsored posts or ads, where the rules are stricter.

    Not putting your own spin on it

    One of the biggest missed opportunities is using a trending sound exactly the same way as everyone else.

    Instead of copy-pasting what you’ve seen:

    • Add your own perspective, story, or humour.
    • Flip the trend on its head.
    • Pair it with visuals that reflect your audience’s world.

    And, get this, sometimes not using trending audio is the trend! Check out this reel from @reelstips, which advocates stripping things back to the basics with your content’s original audio and background sound.

    Whether you're aiming for more reach, building community, or just having fun with your content, trending audio can give your Instagram strategy a fresh boost. And you don’t have to do it all on your own (or all at once).

    A third-party social media scheduling tool like Buffer helps you take care of the admin side—like planning, scheduling, organizing your ideas, and analyzing your results—so you can stay focused on the creative stuff. 

    You bring the personality, let Buffer handle the planning. 

    Yes, business accounts can use some trending sounds, but other trending music tracks may have restrictions due to licensing. However, Instagram offers a wide library of audio for businesses, including trending sounds cleared for commercial use.

    When you find a sound you like, just tap the audio title and hit the bookmark icon to save it. You can access all your saved sounds in the Saved tab when creating a new post.

    Some sounds are restricted based on your account type, location, or copyright rules. If a sound isn’t available, try switching to a personal account or looking for royalty-free alternatives using the Meta Sound Collection

    Instagram’s trending audio list updates daily or every few days, so keep checking to find trending sounds before they peak.

    Absolutely! Using trending sounds can boost your content’s reach by tapping into popular audio with the algorithm and audience. Just remember to keep it authentic and relevant to your brand.

    For ads, it’s safest to use music licensed for commercial use. Some trending audio may not be cleared for ads, so check Instagram’s guidelines or use royalty-free tracks to avoid issues.

    There's no magic number, and it’s best not to use trending audio just for the sake of it. Browse the top songs and trending sounds, and see what inspires and resonates with you. 

    Pro tip: Leave room for original audio or voice-overs that showcase your unique brand voice.

    You can check the Trending tab in Instagram’s music picker when creating Instagram Reels or posts, or use third-party tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok to track trending sounds.

    Using a trending song can definitely boost your reel’s visibility, but it’s not a guaranteed ticket to going viral. Even if you know the Instagram algorithm inside and out, there are just no guarantees!  

    You’re in luck; we have a quick cheat sheet for you with current trending audio and viral sounds. Head over to our regularly updated list to find trending songs for your content. 

    More Instagram resources 

  • How to Make Money on Instagram in 2025: 13 Ideas for Creators and Small Businesses

    How to Make Money on Instagram in 2025: 13 Ideas for Creators and Small Businesses

    From subscriptions to UGC to merch — discover 13 ways to monetize your Instagram following, even if you don’t have a large following.10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Ever scrolled through Instagram Reels and thought, “Wait, everyone’s using that same sound… and I can’t get enough of it!”

    That’s actually how I discovered Makeba by Jain back in 2023. Even though the song was originally released in 2015, it exploded years later on Instagram Reels thanks to a now-iconic combo: that beat paired with Bill Hader’s perfectly timed dance moves

    I couldn’t stop watching. Every time that audio popped up, I had to see what someone had done with it. The track has lived rent-free in my head ever since — which speaks to the power of trending audio on Instagram.

    So, whether you’re a creator trying to grow your following, a social media manager aiming to boost engagement, or a small business owner looking to connect with more people, finding trending audio on Instagram can be a simple (and surprisingly fun) way to get your content in front of new eyes.

    Wondering how to find trending audio on Instagram? 

    In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 easy ways to find trending audio on Instagram, plus some tips to help you take the trend and make it your own.

    🚀
    Want to grow your Instagram without the guesswork? Check out these 13 smart, doable strategies to get more followers in 2025.

    Social media moves, so don’t sleep on these 10 ways to find the perfect sound for your next Insta post.

    Instagram’s trending audio list shows you the top trending sounds that are gaining popularity fast on Instagram, updated every few days. Think of it like a live leaderboard of sounds everyone’s loving right now.

    Here’s how to find it:

    1. Start creating a post, story, or reel and choose your media.
    2. Tap the music icon (at the bottom for posts and reels, at the top for stories).
    3. Tap Trending to browse the top 50 tracks currently topping the charts.
    4. You'll even see whether a sound is on the rise or starting to cool off based on the little green or red trending arrows.

    (As you can see, I posted this reel around Father’s Day.)

    Pro tip: Not ready to use a song just yet? Tap the bookmark icon to save it for later. When you’re ready to post, head to the Saved tab to find all your faves in one place.

    How to access saved songs on Instagram 

    1. Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
    2. Tap the ☰ menu in the top-right corner and select Saved.
    3. Inside the Saved section, switch to the Audio tab, where all your bookmarked tracks are neatly stored.

    If a sound disappears from your Saved list, it’s probably due to licensing changes, or it’s been removed from Instagram. In that case, check the creator’s original reel to either save it again or use an alternative.

    2. Check the professional dashboard

    If you're not ready to create your post yet, another way to get the list of trending audio on Instagram is through the professional dashboard.

    Note: For now, this feature is only available for professional Instagram accounts on the Instagram mobile app in the US.

    Here’s how to find trending audio on Instagram with a professional account:

    1. Tap the Professional dashboard button on your profile.
    2. Scroll down to the Tips and resources section.
    3. Tap Trending audio.
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    3. Look for the arrow icon

    Just scrolling for now? Here’s another great way to identify the latest trending sounds on Instagram if you’re not in posting mode: If you see an upward arrow (↗️) instead of the usual music notes next to an audio track, that means it’s trending.

    Tap the track to explore

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    4. Tap on the audio title to learn more

    When you’re watching a reel, tap the audio name to view how many people are using it and get the option to use or save it.

    You have no idea how happy it made my millennial heart to discover that Alice DJ’s Better Off Alone is trending.*stops writing blog post for spontaneous dance break.*

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Pro tip: You can also add the song on Spotify using the little Add button. (Of course, this one is already in my Liked Songs.)

    While this method of finding trending sounds on Instagram isn’t a perfect science, it’s a good way to find trending audio that’s popular outside your usual feed, and maybe even discover something a little unexpected.

    Here’s how:

    1. Tap the magnifying glass to open the Explore page.
    2. Use the search bar at the top to type in something like “trending audio.”
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)
    1. Want to get more specific? Try keywords that match the vibe of your video, like “summer cocktails,” to see what other creators have used for similar videos. 
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    But, as mentioned earlier, this method isn’t foolproof. 

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    6. Follow Instagram’s Creators account

    Instagram’s @creators account is a wealth of great info and ideas for Instagram growth. They regularly publish a reels trends carousel that shares not only the latest and greatest top trending sounds creators are using, but editing tips and tricks, too. 

    Check out the IG Anthems story highlight. 

    Pro tip: Join the Creators broadcast channel to get news of Instagram’s latest features and trends sent straight to your Instagram inbox. Sign up here. 

    7. Browse the Instagram Reels feed for repeat sounds

    Looking for a guilt-free reason to scroll?. As you swipe through Instagram Reels, keep an ear out for audio you hear more than once. If a sound keeps popping up (especially in totally different types of content), it’s a good sign it’s trending. 

    Bonus points if creators are putting their own spin on the sounds — that usually means the sound has some staying power and flexibility.

    So go ahead, call it research. 😉

    [call out] Take your reels game to the next level. Here are some Instagram tips, strategies, and hacks to create, edit, and distribute your Instagram Reels in 2025. 

    8. Try third-party apps like ReelTrends or TrendTok

    Want a shortcut to what’s hot across social platforms? Tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok Analytics track trending audio across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, showing you:

    • Which sounds on Instagram and other platforms are picking up steam
    • How they’re performing over time.
    • What type of content they’re being used in
    • Predictions for what’s about to trend

    Many of these tools also let you filter by region, category, or niche, so you can tailor what’s trending to your audience.

    Note: Both apps are only available on the App Store for iPhone.

    A lot of trending audio starts on TikTok or YouTube Shorts before landing on Instagram, so keep an eye out there to give you a head start.

    To find trending reels audio on YouTube Shorts:

    1. Click the + button in the YouTube app to start creating a post.
    2. Tap Add sound at the top of the screen.
    3. Browse recommended songs and genres, or scroll down to find the Top sounds on shorts.
    4. Take note of the trending track's title and artist, and head back to Instagram to see if you can find the same sound.

    Let us do the trend-hunting for you. We keep a running list of the hottest Instagram sounds so you don’t have to chase trends from scratch every time you post.

    Whether you’re batch-creating content, stuck in a scroll spiral, or just want to stay inspired, our list is here to help.

    Pro tip: Bookmark the page so you can pop back in anytime you need a little trending audio inspo.

    Ready to work smarter (not harder) on Instagram this year? Grab these 26 free tools to help you grow your account and show up like a pro in 2025. 

    Finding trending audio on Instagram is one of the best ways to boost your content’s reach and stay current with what’s capturing people’s attention. 

    When you use a sound that’s gaining traction, your Instagram content has a better chance of being shown to more users, especially if the algorithm sees others interacting with that same viral audio. 

    People love watching different takes on the same sound

    One of the joys of Instagram Reels is seeing how different Instagram creators interpret the same audio in their own way. Whether it’s funny, heartfelt, or clever, your version adds to the conversation, and viewers love the variety.

    It gives you an easy creative starting point

    Staring at a blank screen? Finding trending audio on Instagram can be the perfect spark to get your creativity flowing, offering some structure without boxing you in.

    Pro tip: You can also save time (and prevent the blank screen effect) by using Buffer’s customizable templates. They’re a great starting point for posts, stories, and more.

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    I’ve been using templates in the latest Creator Camp challenge. Even if I end up tweaking the template, it still gets me out of writer’s block and into creator mode.  

    Joining a trend makes your brand feel more relatable and in the moment

    Using current sounds on Instagram shows that you’re paying attention, participating, and present. 

    When you use trending music, you’re potentially joining a larger conversation, challenge, or even a viral moment. It’s a chance to collaborate, connect, and be seen by new audiences.

    It shows Instagram you’re active and using the platform’s latest features

    Instagram rewards users who engage with its newest tools. It’s a subtle signal to the algorithm that you’re here, you’re creating, and you’re playing by their rules (in the best way).

    You get to have some fun

    Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just fun to jump in on a trend, try something silly, or flex your creativity. Not everything has to be strategic. Enjoying the process makes your content more engaging, too.

    Want to make the most of trending audio on Instagram? These top tips will help you use it in a way that feels authentic, creative, and gets your content seen.

    Make it your own

    Instagram loves originality, even when you’re jumping on a trend. Use trending audio, but add your own spin, story, or style to make it feel uniquely you. 

    Try a remix

    Use the remix feature to create a side-by-side video with existing content. It’s a fun way to react, add context, or show your take with humour, insight, or personality.

    Stick to the specs

    Make sure your content follows Instagram’s recommended dimensions (9:16 for Instagram Reels) and specs. It keeps your videos looking crisp and professional across devices.

    Stay true to your niche

    Not every trend is the right fit, and that’s OK. Focus on audio that aligns with your brand, message, or audience, so your content still feels on-brand and relevant.

    Add text for context

    On-screen text helps grab attention, explain your angle, and keep people watching. It’s especially helpful if your audio doesn’t immediately explain what the video is about. Use it alongside a snappy caption

    Credit where it’s due

    If you’re inspired by another creator, show some love with a tag or mention. It builds community and keeps your creative karma in good standing.

    Jump in early

    Trends move fast. Using audio early in its rise to the top gives you the best chance to reach a wider audience before it becomes overplayed. 

    Pro tip: For added reach, don’t forget to share your Instagram posts to your stories. 

    Post at the optimal time

    Post your content on Instagram when your audience is most active to give your content the best chance of being seen and engaged with. We analyzed over 2 million posts to help you do just that. 

    Keep it fun

    At the end of the day, Instagram Reels and Stories are meant to be playful and creative. Don’t stress about perfection; rather, enjoy the process and let your personality shine through. If you’re feeling a little apprehensive, try a trial reel and see how it lands. 

    Pro tip: Use Buffer’s Create Space to store trending sounds or Instagram Reels ideas for later, and when you’re ready to post, our notification publishing makes it easy to schedule everything ahead of time and add the audio natively in Instagram with just a few taps.

    [call out] Posting stories on the fly? There’s a better way. Schedule them like a pro in 2025 — we’ll show you how (it’s easier than you think). Here’s how to schedule Instagram Stories in 2025.

    Not every trend is the right fit. To make the most of what’s trending (and avoid any cringey missteps), watch out for these common mistakes.

    Using off-brand or controversial audio

    Just because a sound is trending doesn’t mean it aligns with your brand. Some trending audio might contain lyrics, memes, or associations that don’t sit well with your audience, or that could come off as insensitive, offensive, or wildly out of step with your usual tone.

    Before you hit post, do a quick vibe check:

    • Does the sound trend reflect your brand’s values and voice?
    • Will your audience understand or relate to the reference?
    • Could the lyrics or context be misunderstood?

    Jumping on a trend too late

    Timing matters. If a sound is already overused or has started to feel stale, using it might make your content feel behind the curve, not ahead of it.

    Instead:

    • Look for emerging trends on the rise (not already peaking).
    • Save sounds early so you’re ready to post quickly when inspiration hits.

    Not checking licensing (especially for business Instagram accounts)

    Business accounts on Instagram face different rules around audio. Some popular or trending songs may be restricted due to licensing, meaning you either won’t be able to use them, or your video could be muted or taken down after posting.

    To stay safe:

    • Use audio from Instagram’s royalty-free music library for businesses.
    • Look for the music note icon; if it's greyed out or missing, that sound may not be usable on your account.
    • Double-check any music used for sponsored posts or ads, where the rules are stricter.

    Not putting your own spin on it

    One of the biggest missed opportunities is using a trending sound exactly the same way as everyone else.

    Instead of copy-pasting what you’ve seen:

    • Add your own perspective, story, or humour.
    • Flip the trend on its head.
    • Pair it with visuals that reflect your audience’s world.

    And, get this, sometimes not using trending audio is the trend! Check out this reel from @reelstips, which advocates stripping things back to the basics with your content’s original audio and background sound.

    Whether you're aiming for more reach, building community, or just having fun with your content, trending audio can give your Instagram strategy a fresh boost. And you don’t have to do it all on your own (or all at once).

    A third-party social media scheduling tool like Buffer helps you take care of the admin side—like planning, scheduling, organizing your ideas, and analyzing your results—so you can stay focused on the creative stuff. 

    You bring the personality, let Buffer handle the planning. 

    Yes, business accounts can use some trending sounds, but other trending music tracks may have restrictions due to licensing. However, Instagram offers a wide library of audio for businesses, including trending sounds cleared for commercial use.

    When you find a sound you like, just tap the audio title and hit the bookmark icon to save it. You can access all your saved sounds in the Saved tab when creating a new post.

    Some sounds are restricted based on your account type, location, or copyright rules. If a sound isn’t available, try switching to a personal account or looking for royalty-free alternatives using the Meta Sound Collection

    Instagram’s trending audio list updates daily or every few days, so keep checking to find trending sounds before they peak.

    Absolutely! Using trending sounds can boost your content’s reach by tapping into popular audio with the algorithm and audience. Just remember to keep it authentic and relevant to your brand.

    For ads, it’s safest to use music licensed for commercial use. Some trending audio may not be cleared for ads, so check Instagram’s guidelines or use royalty-free tracks to avoid issues.

    There's no magic number, and it’s best not to use trending audio just for the sake of it. Browse the top songs and trending sounds, and see what inspires and resonates with you. 

    Pro tip: Leave room for original audio or voice-overs that showcase your unique brand voice.

    You can check the Trending tab in Instagram’s music picker when creating Instagram Reels or posts, or use third-party tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok to track trending sounds.

    Using a trending song can definitely boost your reel’s visibility, but it’s not a guaranteed ticket to going viral. Even if you know the Instagram algorithm inside and out, there are just no guarantees!  

    You’re in luck; we have a quick cheat sheet for you with current trending audio and viral sounds. Head over to our regularly updated list to find trending songs for your content. 

    More Instagram resources 

  • I’ve Tried 50+ Productivity Tools — Here are My Top 9

    I’ve Tried 50+ Productivity Tools — Here are My Top 9

    I’ve tried 57 productivity tools in the past year. These are the ones I keep coming back to.10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Ever scrolled through Instagram Reels and thought, “Wait, everyone’s using that same sound… and I can’t get enough of it!”

    That’s actually how I discovered Makeba by Jain back in 2023. Even though the song was originally released in 2015, it exploded years later on Instagram Reels thanks to a now-iconic combo: that beat paired with Bill Hader’s perfectly timed dance moves

    I couldn’t stop watching. Every time that audio popped up, I had to see what someone had done with it. The track has lived rent-free in my head ever since — which speaks to the power of trending audio on Instagram.

    So, whether you’re a creator trying to grow your following, a social media manager aiming to boost engagement, or a small business owner looking to connect with more people, finding trending audio on Instagram can be a simple (and surprisingly fun) way to get your content in front of new eyes.

    Wondering how to find trending audio on Instagram? 

    In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 easy ways to find trending audio on Instagram, plus some tips to help you take the trend and make it your own.

    🚀
    Want to grow your Instagram without the guesswork? Check out these 13 smart, doable strategies to get more followers in 2025.

    Social media moves, so don’t sleep on these 10 ways to find the perfect sound for your next Insta post.

    Instagram’s trending audio list shows you the top trending sounds that are gaining popularity fast on Instagram, updated every few days. Think of it like a live leaderboard of sounds everyone’s loving right now.

    Here’s how to find it:

    1. Start creating a post, story, or reel and choose your media.
    2. Tap the music icon (at the bottom for posts and reels, at the top for stories).
    3. Tap Trending to browse the top 50 tracks currently topping the charts.
    4. You'll even see whether a sound is on the rise or starting to cool off based on the little green or red trending arrows.

    (As you can see, I posted this reel around Father’s Day.)

    Pro tip: Not ready to use a song just yet? Tap the bookmark icon to save it for later. When you’re ready to post, head to the Saved tab to find all your faves in one place.

    How to access saved songs on Instagram 

    1. Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
    2. Tap the ☰ menu in the top-right corner and select Saved.
    3. Inside the Saved section, switch to the Audio tab, where all your bookmarked tracks are neatly stored.

    If a sound disappears from your Saved list, it’s probably due to licensing changes, or it’s been removed from Instagram. In that case, check the creator’s original reel to either save it again or use an alternative.

    2. Check the professional dashboard

    If you're not ready to create your post yet, another way to get the list of trending audio on Instagram is through the professional dashboard.

    Note: For now, this feature is only available for professional Instagram accounts on the Instagram mobile app in the US.

    Here’s how to find trending audio on Instagram with a professional account:

    1. Tap the Professional dashboard button on your profile.
    2. Scroll down to the Tips and resources section.
    3. Tap Trending audio.
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    3. Look for the arrow icon

    Just scrolling for now? Here’s another great way to identify the latest trending sounds on Instagram if you’re not in posting mode: If you see an upward arrow (↗️) instead of the usual music notes next to an audio track, that means it’s trending.

    Tap the track to explore

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    4. Tap on the audio title to learn more

    When you’re watching a reel, tap the audio name to view how many people are using it and get the option to use or save it.

    You have no idea how happy it made my millennial heart to discover that Alice DJ’s Better Off Alone is trending.*stops writing blog post for spontaneous dance break.*

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Pro tip: You can also add the song on Spotify using the little Add button. (Of course, this one is already in my Liked Songs.)

    While this method of finding trending sounds on Instagram isn’t a perfect science, it’s a good way to find trending audio that’s popular outside your usual feed, and maybe even discover something a little unexpected.

    Here’s how:

    1. Tap the magnifying glass to open the Explore page.
    2. Use the search bar at the top to type in something like “trending audio.”
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)
    1. Want to get more specific? Try keywords that match the vibe of your video, like “summer cocktails,” to see what other creators have used for similar videos. 
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    But, as mentioned earlier, this method isn’t foolproof. 

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    6. Follow Instagram’s Creators account

    Instagram’s @creators account is a wealth of great info and ideas for Instagram growth. They regularly publish a reels trends carousel that shares not only the latest and greatest top trending sounds creators are using, but editing tips and tricks, too. 

    Check out the IG Anthems story highlight. 

    Pro tip: Join the Creators broadcast channel to get news of Instagram’s latest features and trends sent straight to your Instagram inbox. Sign up here. 

    7. Browse the Instagram Reels feed for repeat sounds

    Looking for a guilt-free reason to scroll?. As you swipe through Instagram Reels, keep an ear out for audio you hear more than once. If a sound keeps popping up (especially in totally different types of content), it’s a good sign it’s trending. 

    Bonus points if creators are putting their own spin on the sounds — that usually means the sound has some staying power and flexibility.

    So go ahead, call it research. 😉

    [call out] Take your reels game to the next level. Here are some Instagram tips, strategies, and hacks to create, edit, and distribute your Instagram Reels in 2025. 

    8. Try third-party apps like ReelTrends or TrendTok

    Want a shortcut to what’s hot across social platforms? Tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok Analytics track trending audio across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, showing you:

    • Which sounds on Instagram and other platforms are picking up steam
    • How they’re performing over time.
    • What type of content they’re being used in
    • Predictions for what’s about to trend

    Many of these tools also let you filter by region, category, or niche, so you can tailor what’s trending to your audience.

    Note: Both apps are only available on the App Store for iPhone.

    A lot of trending audio starts on TikTok or YouTube Shorts before landing on Instagram, so keep an eye out there to give you a head start.

    To find trending reels audio on YouTube Shorts:

    1. Click the + button in the YouTube app to start creating a post.
    2. Tap Add sound at the top of the screen.
    3. Browse recommended songs and genres, or scroll down to find the Top sounds on shorts.
    4. Take note of the trending track's title and artist, and head back to Instagram to see if you can find the same sound.

    Let us do the trend-hunting for you. We keep a running list of the hottest Instagram sounds so you don’t have to chase trends from scratch every time you post.

    Whether you’re batch-creating content, stuck in a scroll spiral, or just want to stay inspired, our list is here to help.

    Pro tip: Bookmark the page so you can pop back in anytime you need a little trending audio inspo.

    Ready to work smarter (not harder) on Instagram this year? Grab these 26 free tools to help you grow your account and show up like a pro in 2025. 

    Finding trending audio on Instagram is one of the best ways to boost your content’s reach and stay current with what’s capturing people’s attention. 

    When you use a sound that’s gaining traction, your Instagram content has a better chance of being shown to more users, especially if the algorithm sees others interacting with that same viral audio. 

    People love watching different takes on the same sound

    One of the joys of Instagram Reels is seeing how different Instagram creators interpret the same audio in their own way. Whether it’s funny, heartfelt, or clever, your version adds to the conversation, and viewers love the variety.

    It gives you an easy creative starting point

    Staring at a blank screen? Finding trending audio on Instagram can be the perfect spark to get your creativity flowing, offering some structure without boxing you in.

    Pro tip: You can also save time (and prevent the blank screen effect) by using Buffer’s customizable templates. They’re a great starting point for posts, stories, and more.

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    I’ve been using templates in the latest Creator Camp challenge. Even if I end up tweaking the template, it still gets me out of writer’s block and into creator mode.  

    Joining a trend makes your brand feel more relatable and in the moment

    Using current sounds on Instagram shows that you’re paying attention, participating, and present. 

    When you use trending music, you’re potentially joining a larger conversation, challenge, or even a viral moment. It’s a chance to collaborate, connect, and be seen by new audiences.

    It shows Instagram you’re active and using the platform’s latest features

    Instagram rewards users who engage with its newest tools. It’s a subtle signal to the algorithm that you’re here, you’re creating, and you’re playing by their rules (in the best way).

    You get to have some fun

    Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just fun to jump in on a trend, try something silly, or flex your creativity. Not everything has to be strategic. Enjoying the process makes your content more engaging, too.

    Want to make the most of trending audio on Instagram? These top tips will help you use it in a way that feels authentic, creative, and gets your content seen.

    Make it your own

    Instagram loves originality, even when you’re jumping on a trend. Use trending audio, but add your own spin, story, or style to make it feel uniquely you. 

    Try a remix

    Use the remix feature to create a side-by-side video with existing content. It’s a fun way to react, add context, or show your take with humour, insight, or personality.

    Stick to the specs

    Make sure your content follows Instagram’s recommended dimensions (9:16 for Instagram Reels) and specs. It keeps your videos looking crisp and professional across devices.

    Stay true to your niche

    Not every trend is the right fit, and that’s OK. Focus on audio that aligns with your brand, message, or audience, so your content still feels on-brand and relevant.

    Add text for context

    On-screen text helps grab attention, explain your angle, and keep people watching. It’s especially helpful if your audio doesn’t immediately explain what the video is about. Use it alongside a snappy caption

    Credit where it’s due

    If you’re inspired by another creator, show some love with a tag or mention. It builds community and keeps your creative karma in good standing.

    Jump in early

    Trends move fast. Using audio early in its rise to the top gives you the best chance to reach a wider audience before it becomes overplayed. 

    Pro tip: For added reach, don’t forget to share your Instagram posts to your stories. 

    Post at the optimal time

    Post your content on Instagram when your audience is most active to give your content the best chance of being seen and engaged with. We analyzed over 2 million posts to help you do just that. 

    Keep it fun

    At the end of the day, Instagram Reels and Stories are meant to be playful and creative. Don’t stress about perfection; rather, enjoy the process and let your personality shine through. If you’re feeling a little apprehensive, try a trial reel and see how it lands. 

    Pro tip: Use Buffer’s Create Space to store trending sounds or Instagram Reels ideas for later, and when you’re ready to post, our notification publishing makes it easy to schedule everything ahead of time and add the audio natively in Instagram with just a few taps.

    [call out] Posting stories on the fly? There’s a better way. Schedule them like a pro in 2025 — we’ll show you how (it’s easier than you think). Here’s how to schedule Instagram Stories in 2025.

    Not every trend is the right fit. To make the most of what’s trending (and avoid any cringey missteps), watch out for these common mistakes.

    Using off-brand or controversial audio

    Just because a sound is trending doesn’t mean it aligns with your brand. Some trending audio might contain lyrics, memes, or associations that don’t sit well with your audience, or that could come off as insensitive, offensive, or wildly out of step with your usual tone.

    Before you hit post, do a quick vibe check:

    • Does the sound trend reflect your brand’s values and voice?
    • Will your audience understand or relate to the reference?
    • Could the lyrics or context be misunderstood?

    Jumping on a trend too late

    Timing matters. If a sound is already overused or has started to feel stale, using it might make your content feel behind the curve, not ahead of it.

    Instead:

    • Look for emerging trends on the rise (not already peaking).
    • Save sounds early so you’re ready to post quickly when inspiration hits.

    Not checking licensing (especially for business Instagram accounts)

    Business accounts on Instagram face different rules around audio. Some popular or trending songs may be restricted due to licensing, meaning you either won’t be able to use them, or your video could be muted or taken down after posting.

    To stay safe:

    • Use audio from Instagram’s royalty-free music library for businesses.
    • Look for the music note icon; if it's greyed out or missing, that sound may not be usable on your account.
    • Double-check any music used for sponsored posts or ads, where the rules are stricter.

    Not putting your own spin on it

    One of the biggest missed opportunities is using a trending sound exactly the same way as everyone else.

    Instead of copy-pasting what you’ve seen:

    • Add your own perspective, story, or humour.
    • Flip the trend on its head.
    • Pair it with visuals that reflect your audience’s world.

    And, get this, sometimes not using trending audio is the trend! Check out this reel from @reelstips, which advocates stripping things back to the basics with your content’s original audio and background sound.

    Whether you're aiming for more reach, building community, or just having fun with your content, trending audio can give your Instagram strategy a fresh boost. And you don’t have to do it all on your own (or all at once).

    A third-party social media scheduling tool like Buffer helps you take care of the admin side—like planning, scheduling, organizing your ideas, and analyzing your results—so you can stay focused on the creative stuff. 

    You bring the personality, let Buffer handle the planning. 

    Yes, business accounts can use some trending sounds, but other trending music tracks may have restrictions due to licensing. However, Instagram offers a wide library of audio for businesses, including trending sounds cleared for commercial use.

    When you find a sound you like, just tap the audio title and hit the bookmark icon to save it. You can access all your saved sounds in the Saved tab when creating a new post.

    Some sounds are restricted based on your account type, location, or copyright rules. If a sound isn’t available, try switching to a personal account or looking for royalty-free alternatives using the Meta Sound Collection

    Instagram’s trending audio list updates daily or every few days, so keep checking to find trending sounds before they peak.

    Absolutely! Using trending sounds can boost your content’s reach by tapping into popular audio with the algorithm and audience. Just remember to keep it authentic and relevant to your brand.

    For ads, it’s safest to use music licensed for commercial use. Some trending audio may not be cleared for ads, so check Instagram’s guidelines or use royalty-free tracks to avoid issues.

    There's no magic number, and it’s best not to use trending audio just for the sake of it. Browse the top songs and trending sounds, and see what inspires and resonates with you. 

    Pro tip: Leave room for original audio or voice-overs that showcase your unique brand voice.

    You can check the Trending tab in Instagram’s music picker when creating Instagram Reels or posts, or use third-party tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok to track trending sounds.

    Using a trending song can definitely boost your reel’s visibility, but it’s not a guaranteed ticket to going viral. Even if you know the Instagram algorithm inside and out, there are just no guarantees!  

    You’re in luck; we have a quick cheat sheet for you with current trending audio and viral sounds. Head over to our regularly updated list to find trending songs for your content. 

    More Instagram resources 

  • 14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    TikTok is bursting with potential. Learn 14 no-fluff strategies to get more followers authentically, build trust, and connect with your community.10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Ever scrolled through Instagram Reels and thought, “Wait, everyone’s using that same sound… and I can’t get enough of it!”

    That’s actually how I discovered Makeba by Jain back in 2023. Even though the song was originally released in 2015, it exploded years later on Instagram Reels thanks to a now-iconic combo: that beat paired with Bill Hader’s perfectly timed dance moves

    I couldn’t stop watching. Every time that audio popped up, I had to see what someone had done with it. The track has lived rent-free in my head ever since — which speaks to the power of trending audio on Instagram.

    So, whether you’re a creator trying to grow your following, a social media manager aiming to boost engagement, or a small business owner looking to connect with more people, finding trending audio on Instagram can be a simple (and surprisingly fun) way to get your content in front of new eyes.

    Wondering how to find trending audio on Instagram? 

    In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 easy ways to find trending audio on Instagram, plus some tips to help you take the trend and make it your own.

    🚀
    Want to grow your Instagram without the guesswork? Check out these 13 smart, doable strategies to get more followers in 2025.

    Social media moves, so don’t sleep on these 10 ways to find the perfect sound for your next Insta post.

    Instagram’s trending audio list shows you the top trending sounds that are gaining popularity fast on Instagram, updated every few days. Think of it like a live leaderboard of sounds everyone’s loving right now.

    Here’s how to find it:

    1. Start creating a post, story, or reel and choose your media.
    2. Tap the music icon (at the bottom for posts and reels, at the top for stories).
    3. Tap Trending to browse the top 50 tracks currently topping the charts.
    4. You'll even see whether a sound is on the rise or starting to cool off based on the little green or red trending arrows.

    (As you can see, I posted this reel around Father’s Day.)

    Pro tip: Not ready to use a song just yet? Tap the bookmark icon to save it for later. When you’re ready to post, head to the Saved tab to find all your faves in one place.

    How to access saved songs on Instagram 

    1. Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
    2. Tap the ☰ menu in the top-right corner and select Saved.
    3. Inside the Saved section, switch to the Audio tab, where all your bookmarked tracks are neatly stored.

    If a sound disappears from your Saved list, it’s probably due to licensing changes, or it’s been removed from Instagram. In that case, check the creator’s original reel to either save it again or use an alternative.

    2. Check the professional dashboard

    If you're not ready to create your post yet, another way to get the list of trending audio on Instagram is through the professional dashboard.

    Note: For now, this feature is only available for professional Instagram accounts on the Instagram mobile app in the US.

    Here’s how to find trending audio on Instagram with a professional account:

    1. Tap the Professional dashboard button on your profile.
    2. Scroll down to the Tips and resources section.
    3. Tap Trending audio.
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    3. Look for the arrow icon

    Just scrolling for now? Here’s another great way to identify the latest trending sounds on Instagram if you’re not in posting mode: If you see an upward arrow (↗️) instead of the usual music notes next to an audio track, that means it’s trending.

    Tap the track to explore

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    4. Tap on the audio title to learn more

    When you’re watching a reel, tap the audio name to view how many people are using it and get the option to use or save it.

    You have no idea how happy it made my millennial heart to discover that Alice DJ’s Better Off Alone is trending.*stops writing blog post for spontaneous dance break.*

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Pro tip: You can also add the song on Spotify using the little Add button. (Of course, this one is already in my Liked Songs.)

    While this method of finding trending sounds on Instagram isn’t a perfect science, it’s a good way to find trending audio that’s popular outside your usual feed, and maybe even discover something a little unexpected.

    Here’s how:

    1. Tap the magnifying glass to open the Explore page.
    2. Use the search bar at the top to type in something like “trending audio.”
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)
    1. Want to get more specific? Try keywords that match the vibe of your video, like “summer cocktails,” to see what other creators have used for similar videos. 
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    But, as mentioned earlier, this method isn’t foolproof. 

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    6. Follow Instagram’s Creators account

    Instagram’s @creators account is a wealth of great info and ideas for Instagram growth. They regularly publish a reels trends carousel that shares not only the latest and greatest top trending sounds creators are using, but editing tips and tricks, too. 

    Check out the IG Anthems story highlight. 

    Pro tip: Join the Creators broadcast channel to get news of Instagram’s latest features and trends sent straight to your Instagram inbox. Sign up here. 

    7. Browse the Instagram Reels feed for repeat sounds

    Looking for a guilt-free reason to scroll?. As you swipe through Instagram Reels, keep an ear out for audio you hear more than once. If a sound keeps popping up (especially in totally different types of content), it’s a good sign it’s trending. 

    Bonus points if creators are putting their own spin on the sounds — that usually means the sound has some staying power and flexibility.

    So go ahead, call it research. 😉

    [call out] Take your reels game to the next level. Here are some Instagram tips, strategies, and hacks to create, edit, and distribute your Instagram Reels in 2025. 

    8. Try third-party apps like ReelTrends or TrendTok

    Want a shortcut to what’s hot across social platforms? Tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok Analytics track trending audio across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, showing you:

    • Which sounds on Instagram and other platforms are picking up steam
    • How they’re performing over time.
    • What type of content they’re being used in
    • Predictions for what’s about to trend

    Many of these tools also let you filter by region, category, or niche, so you can tailor what’s trending to your audience.

    Note: Both apps are only available on the App Store for iPhone.

    A lot of trending audio starts on TikTok or YouTube Shorts before landing on Instagram, so keep an eye out there to give you a head start.

    To find trending reels audio on YouTube Shorts:

    1. Click the + button in the YouTube app to start creating a post.
    2. Tap Add sound at the top of the screen.
    3. Browse recommended songs and genres, or scroll down to find the Top sounds on shorts.
    4. Take note of the trending track's title and artist, and head back to Instagram to see if you can find the same sound.

    Let us do the trend-hunting for you. We keep a running list of the hottest Instagram sounds so you don’t have to chase trends from scratch every time you post.

    Whether you’re batch-creating content, stuck in a scroll spiral, or just want to stay inspired, our list is here to help.

    Pro tip: Bookmark the page so you can pop back in anytime you need a little trending audio inspo.

    Ready to work smarter (not harder) on Instagram this year? Grab these 26 free tools to help you grow your account and show up like a pro in 2025. 

    Finding trending audio on Instagram is one of the best ways to boost your content’s reach and stay current with what’s capturing people’s attention. 

    When you use a sound that’s gaining traction, your Instagram content has a better chance of being shown to more users, especially if the algorithm sees others interacting with that same viral audio. 

    People love watching different takes on the same sound

    One of the joys of Instagram Reels is seeing how different Instagram creators interpret the same audio in their own way. Whether it’s funny, heartfelt, or clever, your version adds to the conversation, and viewers love the variety.

    It gives you an easy creative starting point

    Staring at a blank screen? Finding trending audio on Instagram can be the perfect spark to get your creativity flowing, offering some structure without boxing you in.

    Pro tip: You can also save time (and prevent the blank screen effect) by using Buffer’s customizable templates. They’re a great starting point for posts, stories, and more.

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    I’ve been using templates in the latest Creator Camp challenge. Even if I end up tweaking the template, it still gets me out of writer’s block and into creator mode.  

    Joining a trend makes your brand feel more relatable and in the moment

    Using current sounds on Instagram shows that you’re paying attention, participating, and present. 

    When you use trending music, you’re potentially joining a larger conversation, challenge, or even a viral moment. It’s a chance to collaborate, connect, and be seen by new audiences.

    It shows Instagram you’re active and using the platform’s latest features

    Instagram rewards users who engage with its newest tools. It’s a subtle signal to the algorithm that you’re here, you’re creating, and you’re playing by their rules (in the best way).

    You get to have some fun

    Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just fun to jump in on a trend, try something silly, or flex your creativity. Not everything has to be strategic. Enjoying the process makes your content more engaging, too.

    Want to make the most of trending audio on Instagram? These top tips will help you use it in a way that feels authentic, creative, and gets your content seen.

    Make it your own

    Instagram loves originality, even when you’re jumping on a trend. Use trending audio, but add your own spin, story, or style to make it feel uniquely you. 

    Try a remix

    Use the remix feature to create a side-by-side video with existing content. It’s a fun way to react, add context, or show your take with humour, insight, or personality.

    Stick to the specs

    Make sure your content follows Instagram’s recommended dimensions (9:16 for Instagram Reels) and specs. It keeps your videos looking crisp and professional across devices.

    Stay true to your niche

    Not every trend is the right fit, and that’s OK. Focus on audio that aligns with your brand, message, or audience, so your content still feels on-brand and relevant.

    Add text for context

    On-screen text helps grab attention, explain your angle, and keep people watching. It’s especially helpful if your audio doesn’t immediately explain what the video is about. Use it alongside a snappy caption

    Credit where it’s due

    If you’re inspired by another creator, show some love with a tag or mention. It builds community and keeps your creative karma in good standing.

    Jump in early

    Trends move fast. Using audio early in its rise to the top gives you the best chance to reach a wider audience before it becomes overplayed. 

    Pro tip: For added reach, don’t forget to share your Instagram posts to your stories. 

    Post at the optimal time

    Post your content on Instagram when your audience is most active to give your content the best chance of being seen and engaged with. We analyzed over 2 million posts to help you do just that. 

    Keep it fun

    At the end of the day, Instagram Reels and Stories are meant to be playful and creative. Don’t stress about perfection; rather, enjoy the process and let your personality shine through. If you’re feeling a little apprehensive, try a trial reel and see how it lands. 

    Pro tip: Use Buffer’s Create Space to store trending sounds or Instagram Reels ideas for later, and when you’re ready to post, our notification publishing makes it easy to schedule everything ahead of time and add the audio natively in Instagram with just a few taps.

    [call out] Posting stories on the fly? There’s a better way. Schedule them like a pro in 2025 — we’ll show you how (it’s easier than you think). Here’s how to schedule Instagram Stories in 2025.

    Not every trend is the right fit. To make the most of what’s trending (and avoid any cringey missteps), watch out for these common mistakes.

    Using off-brand or controversial audio

    Just because a sound is trending doesn’t mean it aligns with your brand. Some trending audio might contain lyrics, memes, or associations that don’t sit well with your audience, or that could come off as insensitive, offensive, or wildly out of step with your usual tone.

    Before you hit post, do a quick vibe check:

    • Does the sound trend reflect your brand’s values and voice?
    • Will your audience understand or relate to the reference?
    • Could the lyrics or context be misunderstood?

    Jumping on a trend too late

    Timing matters. If a sound is already overused or has started to feel stale, using it might make your content feel behind the curve, not ahead of it.

    Instead:

    • Look for emerging trends on the rise (not already peaking).
    • Save sounds early so you’re ready to post quickly when inspiration hits.

    Not checking licensing (especially for business Instagram accounts)

    Business accounts on Instagram face different rules around audio. Some popular or trending songs may be restricted due to licensing, meaning you either won’t be able to use them, or your video could be muted or taken down after posting.

    To stay safe:

    • Use audio from Instagram’s royalty-free music library for businesses.
    • Look for the music note icon; if it's greyed out or missing, that sound may not be usable on your account.
    • Double-check any music used for sponsored posts or ads, where the rules are stricter.

    Not putting your own spin on it

    One of the biggest missed opportunities is using a trending sound exactly the same way as everyone else.

    Instead of copy-pasting what you’ve seen:

    • Add your own perspective, story, or humour.
    • Flip the trend on its head.
    • Pair it with visuals that reflect your audience’s world.

    And, get this, sometimes not using trending audio is the trend! Check out this reel from @reelstips, which advocates stripping things back to the basics with your content’s original audio and background sound.

    Whether you're aiming for more reach, building community, or just having fun with your content, trending audio can give your Instagram strategy a fresh boost. And you don’t have to do it all on your own (or all at once).

    A third-party social media scheduling tool like Buffer helps you take care of the admin side—like planning, scheduling, organizing your ideas, and analyzing your results—so you can stay focused on the creative stuff. 

    You bring the personality, let Buffer handle the planning. 

    Yes, business accounts can use some trending sounds, but other trending music tracks may have restrictions due to licensing. However, Instagram offers a wide library of audio for businesses, including trending sounds cleared for commercial use.

    When you find a sound you like, just tap the audio title and hit the bookmark icon to save it. You can access all your saved sounds in the Saved tab when creating a new post.

    Some sounds are restricted based on your account type, location, or copyright rules. If a sound isn’t available, try switching to a personal account or looking for royalty-free alternatives using the Meta Sound Collection

    Instagram’s trending audio list updates daily or every few days, so keep checking to find trending sounds before they peak.

    Absolutely! Using trending sounds can boost your content’s reach by tapping into popular audio with the algorithm and audience. Just remember to keep it authentic and relevant to your brand.

    For ads, it’s safest to use music licensed for commercial use. Some trending audio may not be cleared for ads, so check Instagram’s guidelines or use royalty-free tracks to avoid issues.

    There's no magic number, and it’s best not to use trending audio just for the sake of it. Browse the top songs and trending sounds, and see what inspires and resonates with you. 

    Pro tip: Leave room for original audio or voice-overs that showcase your unique brand voice.

    You can check the Trending tab in Instagram’s music picker when creating Instagram Reels or posts, or use third-party tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok to track trending sounds.

    Using a trending song can definitely boost your reel’s visibility, but it’s not a guaranteed ticket to going viral. Even if you know the Instagram algorithm inside and out, there are just no guarantees!  

    You’re in luck; we have a quick cheat sheet for you with current trending audio and viral sounds. Head over to our regularly updated list to find trending songs for your content. 

    More Instagram resources 

  • 10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Finding trending songs on Instagram doesn’t have to be a guessing game. Use these tips to stay in the loop and boost your reach. 10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Ever scrolled through Instagram Reels and thought, “Wait, everyone’s using that same sound… and I can’t get enough of it!”

    That’s actually how I discovered Makeba by Jain back in 2023. Even though the song was originally released in 2015, it exploded years later on Instagram Reels thanks to a now-iconic combo: that beat paired with Bill Hader’s perfectly timed dance moves

    I couldn’t stop watching. Every time that audio popped up, I had to see what someone had done with it. The track has lived rent-free in my head ever since — which speaks to the power of trending audio on Instagram.

    So, whether you’re a creator trying to grow your following, a social media manager aiming to boost engagement, or a small business owner looking to connect with more people, finding trending audio on Instagram can be a simple (and surprisingly fun) way to get your content in front of new eyes.

    Wondering how to find trending audio on Instagram? 

    In this post, I’ll walk you through 10 easy ways to find trending audio on Instagram, plus some tips to help you take the trend and make it your own.

    🚀
    Want to grow your Instagram without the guesswork? Check out these 13 smart, doable strategies to get more followers in 2025.

    Social media moves, so don’t sleep on these 10 ways to find the perfect sound for your next Insta post.

    Instagram’s trending audio list shows you the top trending sounds that are gaining popularity fast on Instagram, updated every few days. Think of it like a live leaderboard of sounds everyone’s loving right now.

    Here’s how to find it:

    1. Start creating a post, story, or reel and choose your media.
    2. Tap the music icon (at the bottom for posts and reels, at the top for stories).
    3. Tap Trending to browse the top 50 tracks currently topping the charts.
    4. You'll even see whether a sound is on the rise or starting to cool off based on the little green or red trending arrows.

    (As you can see, I posted this reel around Father’s Day.)

    Pro tip: Not ready to use a song just yet? Tap the bookmark icon to save it for later. When you’re ready to post, head to the Saved tab to find all your faves in one place.

    How to access saved songs on Instagram 

    1. Open the Instagram app and go to your profile.
    2. Tap the ☰ menu in the top-right corner and select Saved.
    3. Inside the Saved section, switch to the Audio tab, where all your bookmarked tracks are neatly stored.

    If a sound disappears from your Saved list, it’s probably due to licensing changes, or it’s been removed from Instagram. In that case, check the creator’s original reel to either save it again or use an alternative.

    2. Check the professional dashboard

    If you're not ready to create your post yet, another way to get the list of trending audio on Instagram is through the professional dashboard.

    Note: For now, this feature is only available for professional Instagram accounts on the Instagram mobile app in the US.

    Here’s how to find trending audio on Instagram with a professional account:

    1. Tap the Professional dashboard button on your profile.
    2. Scroll down to the Tips and resources section.
    3. Tap Trending audio.
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    3. Look for the arrow icon

    Just scrolling for now? Here’s another great way to identify the latest trending sounds on Instagram if you’re not in posting mode: If you see an upward arrow (↗️) instead of the usual music notes next to an audio track, that means it’s trending.

    Tap the track to explore

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    4. Tap on the audio title to learn more

    When you’re watching a reel, tap the audio name to view how many people are using it and get the option to use or save it.

    You have no idea how happy it made my millennial heart to discover that Alice DJ’s Better Off Alone is trending.*stops writing blog post for spontaneous dance break.*

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    Pro tip: You can also add the song on Spotify using the little Add button. (Of course, this one is already in my Liked Songs.)

    While this method of finding trending sounds on Instagram isn’t a perfect science, it’s a good way to find trending audio that’s popular outside your usual feed, and maybe even discover something a little unexpected.

    Here’s how:

    1. Tap the magnifying glass to open the Explore page.
    2. Use the search bar at the top to type in something like “trending audio.”
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)
    1. Want to get more specific? Try keywords that match the vibe of your video, like “summer cocktails,” to see what other creators have used for similar videos. 
    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    But, as mentioned earlier, this method isn’t foolproof. 

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    6. Follow Instagram’s Creators account

    Instagram’s @creators account is a wealth of great info and ideas for Instagram growth. They regularly publish a reels trends carousel that shares not only the latest and greatest top trending sounds creators are using, but editing tips and tricks, too. 

    Check out the IG Anthems story highlight. 

    Pro tip: Join the Creators broadcast channel to get news of Instagram’s latest features and trends sent straight to your Instagram inbox. Sign up here. 

    7. Browse the Instagram Reels feed for repeat sounds

    Looking for a guilt-free reason to scroll?. As you swipe through Instagram Reels, keep an ear out for audio you hear more than once. If a sound keeps popping up (especially in totally different types of content), it’s a good sign it’s trending. 

    Bonus points if creators are putting their own spin on the sounds — that usually means the sound has some staying power and flexibility.

    So go ahead, call it research. 😉

    [call out] Take your reels game to the next level. Here are some Instagram tips, strategies, and hacks to create, edit, and distribute your Instagram Reels in 2025. 

    8. Try third-party apps like ReelTrends or TrendTok

    Want a shortcut to what’s hot across social platforms? Tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok Analytics track trending audio across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, showing you:

    • Which sounds on Instagram and other platforms are picking up steam
    • How they’re performing over time.
    • What type of content they’re being used in
    • Predictions for what’s about to trend

    Many of these tools also let you filter by region, category, or niche, so you can tailor what’s trending to your audience.

    Note: Both apps are only available on the App Store for iPhone.

    A lot of trending audio starts on TikTok or YouTube Shorts before landing on Instagram, so keep an eye out there to give you a head start.

    To find trending reels audio on YouTube Shorts:

    1. Click the + button in the YouTube app to start creating a post.
    2. Tap Add sound at the top of the screen.
    3. Browse recommended songs and genres, or scroll down to find the Top sounds on shorts.
    4. Take note of the trending track's title and artist, and head back to Instagram to see if you can find the same sound.

    Let us do the trend-hunting for you. We keep a running list of the hottest Instagram sounds so you don’t have to chase trends from scratch every time you post.

    Whether you’re batch-creating content, stuck in a scroll spiral, or just want to stay inspired, our list is here to help.

    Pro tip: Bookmark the page so you can pop back in anytime you need a little trending audio inspo.

    Ready to work smarter (not harder) on Instagram this year? Grab these 26 free tools to help you grow your account and show up like a pro in 2025. 

    Finding trending audio on Instagram is one of the best ways to boost your content’s reach and stay current with what’s capturing people’s attention. 

    When you use a sound that’s gaining traction, your Instagram content has a better chance of being shown to more users, especially if the algorithm sees others interacting with that same viral audio. 

    People love watching different takes on the same sound

    One of the joys of Instagram Reels is seeing how different Instagram creators interpret the same audio in their own way. Whether it’s funny, heartfelt, or clever, your version adds to the conversation, and viewers love the variety.

    It gives you an easy creative starting point

    Staring at a blank screen? Finding trending audio on Instagram can be the perfect spark to get your creativity flowing, offering some structure without boxing you in.

    Pro tip: You can also save time (and prevent the blank screen effect) by using Buffer’s customizable templates. They’re a great starting point for posts, stories, and more.

    10 Simple Ways to Find Trending Instagram Audio in 2025 (+ Get More Views)

    I’ve been using templates in the latest Creator Camp challenge. Even if I end up tweaking the template, it still gets me out of writer’s block and into creator mode.  

    Joining a trend makes your brand feel more relatable and in the moment

    Using current sounds on Instagram shows that you’re paying attention, participating, and present. 

    When you use trending music, you’re potentially joining a larger conversation, challenge, or even a viral moment. It’s a chance to collaborate, connect, and be seen by new audiences.

    It shows Instagram you’re active and using the platform’s latest features

    Instagram rewards users who engage with its newest tools. It’s a subtle signal to the algorithm that you’re here, you’re creating, and you’re playing by their rules (in the best way).

    You get to have some fun

    Let’s be honest, sometimes it’s just fun to jump in on a trend, try something silly, or flex your creativity. Not everything has to be strategic. Enjoying the process makes your content more engaging, too.

    Want to make the most of trending audio on Instagram? These top tips will help you use it in a way that feels authentic, creative, and gets your content seen.

    Make it your own

    Instagram loves originality, even when you’re jumping on a trend. Use trending audio, but add your own spin, story, or style to make it feel uniquely you. 

    Try a remix

    Use the remix feature to create a side-by-side video with existing content. It’s a fun way to react, add context, or show your take with humour, insight, or personality.

    Stick to the specs

    Make sure your content follows Instagram’s recommended dimensions (9:16 for Instagram Reels) and specs. It keeps your videos looking crisp and professional across devices.

    Stay true to your niche

    Not every trend is the right fit, and that’s OK. Focus on audio that aligns with your brand, message, or audience, so your content still feels on-brand and relevant.

    Add text for context

    On-screen text helps grab attention, explain your angle, and keep people watching. It’s especially helpful if your audio doesn’t immediately explain what the video is about. Use it alongside a snappy caption

    Credit where it’s due

    If you’re inspired by another creator, show some love with a tag or mention. It builds community and keeps your creative karma in good standing.

    Jump in early

    Trends move fast. Using audio early in its rise to the top gives you the best chance to reach a wider audience before it becomes overplayed. 

    Pro tip: For added reach, don’t forget to share your Instagram posts to your stories. 

    Post at the optimal time

    Post your content on Instagram when your audience is most active to give your content the best chance of being seen and engaged with. We analyzed over 2 million posts to help you do just that. 

    Keep it fun

    At the end of the day, Instagram Reels and Stories are meant to be playful and creative. Don’t stress about perfection; rather, enjoy the process and let your personality shine through. If you’re feeling a little apprehensive, try a trial reel and see how it lands. 

    Pro tip: Use Buffer’s Create Space to store trending sounds or Instagram Reels ideas for later, and when you’re ready to post, our notification publishing makes it easy to schedule everything ahead of time and add the audio natively in Instagram with just a few taps.

    [call out] Posting stories on the fly? There’s a better way. Schedule them like a pro in 2025 — we’ll show you how (it’s easier than you think). Here’s how to schedule Instagram Stories in 2025.

    Not every trend is the right fit. To make the most of what’s trending (and avoid any cringey missteps), watch out for these common mistakes.

    Using off-brand or controversial audio

    Just because a sound is trending doesn’t mean it aligns with your brand. Some trending audio might contain lyrics, memes, or associations that don’t sit well with your audience, or that could come off as insensitive, offensive, or wildly out of step with your usual tone.

    Before you hit post, do a quick vibe check:

    • Does the sound trend reflect your brand’s values and voice?
    • Will your audience understand or relate to the reference?
    • Could the lyrics or context be misunderstood?

    Jumping on a trend too late

    Timing matters. If a sound is already overused or has started to feel stale, using it might make your content feel behind the curve, not ahead of it.

    Instead:

    • Look for emerging trends on the rise (not already peaking).
    • Save sounds early so you’re ready to post quickly when inspiration hits.

    Not checking licensing (especially for business Instagram accounts)

    Business accounts on Instagram face different rules around audio. Some popular or trending songs may be restricted due to licensing, meaning you either won’t be able to use them, or your video could be muted or taken down after posting.

    To stay safe:

    • Use audio from Instagram’s royalty-free music library for businesses.
    • Look for the music note icon; if it's greyed out or missing, that sound may not be usable on your account.
    • Double-check any music used for sponsored posts or ads, where the rules are stricter.

    Not putting your own spin on it

    One of the biggest missed opportunities is using a trending sound exactly the same way as everyone else.

    Instead of copy-pasting what you’ve seen:

    • Add your own perspective, story, or humour.
    • Flip the trend on its head.
    • Pair it with visuals that reflect your audience’s world.

    And, get this, sometimes not using trending audio is the trend! Check out this reel from @reelstips, which advocates stripping things back to the basics with your content’s original audio and background sound.

    Whether you're aiming for more reach, building community, or just having fun with your content, trending audio can give your Instagram strategy a fresh boost. And you don’t have to do it all on your own (or all at once).

    A third-party social media scheduling tool like Buffer helps you take care of the admin side—like planning, scheduling, organizing your ideas, and analyzing your results—so you can stay focused on the creative stuff. 

    You bring the personality, let Buffer handle the planning. 

    Yes, business accounts can use some trending sounds, but other trending music tracks may have restrictions due to licensing. However, Instagram offers a wide library of audio for businesses, including trending sounds cleared for commercial use.

    When you find a sound you like, just tap the audio title and hit the bookmark icon to save it. You can access all your saved sounds in the Saved tab when creating a new post.

    Some sounds are restricted based on your account type, location, or copyright rules. If a sound isn’t available, try switching to a personal account or looking for royalty-free alternatives using the Meta Sound Collection

    Instagram’s trending audio list updates daily or every few days, so keep checking to find trending sounds before they peak.

    Absolutely! Using trending sounds can boost your content’s reach by tapping into popular audio with the algorithm and audience. Just remember to keep it authentic and relevant to your brand.

    For ads, it’s safest to use music licensed for commercial use. Some trending audio may not be cleared for ads, so check Instagram’s guidelines or use royalty-free tracks to avoid issues.

    There's no magic number, and it’s best not to use trending audio just for the sake of it. Browse the top songs and trending sounds, and see what inspires and resonates with you. 

    Pro tip: Leave room for original audio or voice-overs that showcase your unique brand voice.

    You can check the Trending tab in Instagram’s music picker when creating Instagram Reels or posts, or use third-party tools like ReelTrends and TrendTok to track trending sounds.

    Using a trending song can definitely boost your reel’s visibility, but it’s not a guaranteed ticket to going viral. Even if you know the Instagram algorithm inside and out, there are just no guarantees!  

    You’re in luck; we have a quick cheat sheet for you with current trending audio and viral sounds. Head over to our regularly updated list to find trending songs for your content. 

    More Instagram resources 

  • User-Generated Content: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Add It to Your Strategy

    User-Generated Content: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Add It to Your Strategy

    Learn all about user-generated content — what it is, why you should use it, and how to leverage it in your marketing channels.14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    One of my favorite things about TikTok is that it doesn’t play favorites. Even the newest accounts have a fair shot at reaching thousands (or millions!) of people.

    The idea of a “welcoming” algorithm might feel strange to long-time creators and social media managers, but if there ever was one, it would be TikTok’s. 

    The social media platform is bursting with potential. With over 1.58 billion users spending nearly an hour every day on the app, chances are your audience is already waiting to discover — and follow — you.

    Now, follower count isn’t everything. But it does open doors. It helps you build trust, unlock cool features like the TikTok Shop, and grow a loyal community that vibes with your content.

    In this guide, you’ll learn how to get more followers on TikTok using 14 solid, no-fluff, actionable tips.

    Just real, practical strategies that work. If you prefer watching over reading, we’ve summarized the top five tips for you in video form, too:

    1. Choose a niche — and stick to it

    It’s tempting to throw stuff on the wall and see what sticks — especially on TikTok, where the vibes are more chilled thaon n other social media platforms. But having a niche — even a broad one — has plenty of benefits:

    • It tells the TikTok algorithm what your content is about
    • It helps you filter your content ideas to a specific topic
    • It helps you build authority and trust in your industry
    • It makes you more memorable to TikTok users

    Kirsti Lang, a Senior Content Writer at Buffer, grew her following by over 1,000% in 30 days. One of her core learnings was that a niche (or a handful of connected niches) is immensely valuable for growing a loyal following.

    “If you do find a video you enjoy or find helpful in your FYP, you may tap over to the creator’s profile to see if there are more,” she says. “And if what you find there is a hot mess of all sorts of unrelated things, you’re going to bounce back to the FYP without tapping ‘follow’ real fast.”

    Annie-Mai Hodge, founder of Girl Power Marketing, agrees: “People are wanting and searching for spaces and communities where they belong, where they can relate, and where they feel understood,” she says. “So they’re actively looking for creators who get them, or provide an experience for them like escaping — it’s why #BookTok is so huge.”

    If you feel constricted by having a singular niche, have a broad one that can fit multiple content pillars — quenching your desire for spontaneity and creativity without violating the algorithm’s preference for cohesiveness.

    For example, Kirsti first posted about various topics: her job at Buffer, her love of Taylor Swift, and her fitness routine. But despite one of her Swiftie videos going viral, her watcher-to-follower conversion rate remained low.

    Her other videos about how to land a remote job did much better for that metric, even if they didn’t go viral.

    @itsmekirsti

    Replying to @NikitaJade This is the exact process I would use to find a remote job from outside the U.S. if I was starting from scratch today! I wanted to follow up on my chaotic grwm video yesterday with something a little more structured — this is my step-by-step guide to finding and landing a remote job, particularly in the tech industry. Screenshot my notes at the end of the video! Let me know if you have any questions. 😊 #remotejob #remotework #jobsearch #jobsearchtips #remotejobs #wfh

    ♬ My Frequency – Rickert Ponce

    “The Swifties were tapping over to my profile and didn’t find a Taylor Swift fan account,” she says. “The remote work video netted a very pleasing 70K views, and I earned a huge chunk of new followers — 757, to be exact — and a much healthier conversation rate.”

    Lessons learned: Going viral doesn’t guarantee higher follower counts. You need a niche to establish yourself as an authority on the topic to gain followers and tell TikTok users (and the algorithm) what your TikTok account is about.

    If you’re having too much trouble deciding what your niche will be, shift gears a little bit and think about who you’re creating TikTok videos for. Which brings me to my next point.

    2. Understand your target audience

    Having a solid understanding of who your target audience is and what they’re looking for is the bedrock of getting more followers on all social media platforms, TikTok included.

    CEO of Fashivly, Ashlyn Greer, has grown the brand’s TikTok account to over 100k followers. Her core principle has always been to use TikTok to resonate with her audience by understanding (and catering to) her audience’s struggles. Take her video about sizing discrepancies in the fashion industry — it went viral because it struck a chord.

    @fashivly

    the chokehold these jeans had on us #greenscreen #greenscreenvideo #millennial

    ♬ original sound – fashivly

    “We’ve continued to create inclusive content based on [audience] insights,” she says. “Understanding their pain points has guided our content creation and ensured we stay as inclusive as possible because we know this approach resonates with our audience.”

    Solidifying your niche will lay the groundwork to help you pinpoint the segment of TikTok users you want to reach. The second step is doing your research to figure out your target audience’s pain points and content preferences.

    Audience research tools like SparkToro or AnswerThePublic can help you find your audience’s burning questions. But you can also work on understanding your target audience by spending time on TikTok and conducting a competitor analysis. For example, if you’re a creator focusing on creating healthy vegan recipes:

    • Search for “healthy vegan recipes” on TikTok and see what pops up
    • Analyze the best-performing TikTok videos and creators to understand what topics they’re creating videos on and which are resonating
    • Pay attention to the comments on your fellow creators’ videos to dive even further into your audience’s questions, preferences, and recommendations

    Understanding your target audience is an ongoing endeavor rather than a one-off task. The more you post (and experiment!), the more feedback you get — in comments, direct messages (DMs), and your TikTok analytics.

    3. Write a clear and compelling bio

    Your potential followers on TikTok will likely discover your content in the For You Page (FYP). But they might often navigate to your TikTok profile to learn more about who you are and what you post about.

    If your TikTok bio is empty, you’re leaving valuable space that could work to get you more followers.

    Your bio should tell what content you create — establish your niche and your unique selling point. Instead of making it about you though, focus on your audience and make it about them.

    For example, Parker York Smith’s bio says, “Helping you look good and feel confident,” which is an instant value prop for why you should follow him.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While you’re at it, also ensure that your TikTok profile is up to date — have a clear profile picture and an easy-to-read username. All of the factors in your profile will work together to help build trust and make it tempting to follow you.

    4. Build a content calendar to post consistently

    TikTok, like all other social media platforms, loves consistency. The ideal posting frequency for TikTok is two short-form videos a day. 

    But take that number with a grain of salt. You can adjust this based on your capacity — more important to maintain the quality of your TikTok videos. 

    Kirsti, for example, has seen solid audience growth with two or three videos a month.

    A smart way to increase your posting cadence without burning out is to repurpose your content. If you already have a YouTube channel, for instance, you can chop up some videos from there to post on your TikTok account. You can also shoot b-roll in bulk (hello, content batching) and reuse it for future videos.

    Alice Kim, founder of PerfectDD, used TikTok to generate $25,000 in sales for her business in a month. She found that many of her old videos would resurface to new TikTok users, thanks to the algorithm. Having a consistent branding (alongside regular posting) helped her immensely in this scenario.

    “I’ve found consistency in messaging is more important than consistency of posting,” she says. “This means that any of my videos could be seen by a new potential customer at any time."

    "That’s why I’m unafraid to reiterate my brand promise and message over and over again, so people who are new to my videos always know what PerfectDD is all about.”

    The easiest way to maintain a consistent posting schedule is by creating a content calendar and using a tool like Buffer to automate posting (Buffer also doubles as a content calendar — so you don’t need both!). This way, you can visually spot your content gaps and fill them.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Remember to leave some room in that content calendar for trending content.

    Let’s be clear: Trending content isn’t a magic bullet to increase your TikTok followers. But it can help you become more visible on the For You Page — which can, by extension, help you get more followers on TikTok.

    While creating your content calendar, leave some gaps for trending videos. Or you could treat them as bonus posts! There can be three kinds of trends:

    • TikTok trends: A trend that’s unique to the TikTok app, like challenge videos.
    • Trending songs: You can often find trending songs used behind TikTok videos.
    • Industry-specific trends: Trends related to a specific news or event in your niche.

    If you scroll on TikTok regularly, you’ll automatically start finding these trends on your FYP. Some trends are also tied to a specific period, like the holidays or the fall season. Most trending content will be time-sensitive, so you need to jump on trends before they fade.

    Keep two things in mind before hopping on trends:

    • Your trending videos still need to fit your niche. Don’t participate in a trend if it’s not true to your brand values or can’t be molded for your industry.
    • Balance trending content with evergreen content. Trending posts can provide you with viral moments and boost visibility, but the real gold is the evergreen content that makes people follow you and stick around.

    Alice experienced this herself:

    “Sometimes, trendy TikToks didn’t work because the trend wasn’t authentic enough to me and my brand. The trends that have most benefited my business are the ones I personally had an emotional reaction to,” she said. 

    “I still try the trends when they’re easy and fun for me, but what people really pick up on are the videos in which I’m authentically sharing my experience and talking about my brand.”

    Your TikTok strategy should include a healthy mix of trending and evergreen content. Trending videos might bring in a large TikTok audience to your profile, but evergreen content is what will make them stick around.

    And while you’re creating that content calendar (hopefully using a smart tool like Buffer!), you also want to select the right time to post.

    6. Post at the right time

    There’s no such thing as the right time to start working on your goals. Or meet your soulmate. Or having a sweet treat. But posting on TikTok? Yep, there’s a right time for that one.

    You don’t want to post when your engagement will be low. Or when there’ll be too much competition and your video will drown in the noise. Or when your audience is fast asleep.

    The goal is to post when video discoverability is at an all-time high so you get more engagement. Based on our analysis of one million TikTok posts, that time is between 4-5 p.m. mid-week.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Posting at the right time might sound like a small, insignificant thing. And it is a relatively small piece of the puzzle of how to get more followers on TikTok. But it can help your TikTok content get that initial boost it needs to get in front of the right audience at the perfect time.

    7. Focus on scroll-stopping hooks

    Short-form video content (whether it’s TikTok videos, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts) thrives when the first few seconds of your video can quickly grab attention.

    Take this video by Erin McGoff: The “I got the job!” phrase quickly piques interest and curiosity. The following line, “Ugh, that salary is way too low,” holds it. You want to know what the character would do next.

    @erinmcgoff

    🔬 According to Forbes, people who negotiate their salary (especially their first job!) make significantly more money throughout their life. 🇺🇸 In the U.S., negotiating your salary is common etiquette! Companies expect you to counter the first offer. The first offer is rarely their best offer. If it is, they’ll usually tell you that. Yet, 55% of candidates don’t negotiate. 😭 BUT, out of those who do? 85% get some or ALL of what they asked for. 🤑 🤷🏼‍♀️ Negotiating doesn’t have to be confrontational, awkward, or uncomfortable. If you use the right words, tone, and approach, you’ll have the company saying “you’ve got a deal!” in no time. 🫶🏼 I’m SUPER passionate about helping people advocate for themselves and make more money. 📝 That’s why I wrote a complete salary negotiation guide and sell it for $49.99! …jk, IT’S FREE! Link in bio 🙂 You got this 👏 money salary negotiation careeradvice

    ♬ original sound – AdviceWithErin✨ – AdviceWithErin✨

    Your hook can be the audio, the visual, the text on the screen, or all three combined. The goal is to stop the scroll. Think: What would my audience see or hear and immediately stop in their tracks?

    Use copywriting formulas and closely observe the hooks that make you want to watch more. Slowly but surely, you’ll learn to craft impeccable hooks.

    Hooks might not seem like a TikTok strategy for follower growth, but a strong hook is what gets your foot in the door. Once someone is hooked (pun intended) to your TikTok content, they’ll stick around till the end to see it through. And if they like what they see, they’ll tap the follow button to see more of it.

    💡
    Note: It’s important to avoid clickbait in your hooks while creating TikTok content. They might reel TikTok users in, but they won’t keep viewers engaged till the end. Genuine engagement will only come from hooks that are well-crafted and true.

    8. End your videos with a strong call-to-action

    Here’s something I learned in therapy that applies to TikTok marketing, too (the parallels of life remain unparalleled, amirite?): You gotta ask for what you need.

    Maybe your TikTok videos are epic, but are you asking viewers to follow you? It could be something as simple as “Follow me for more [your niche] tips!”

    Another thing you could do is tease what you’re going to post about in the future that might also interest your potential TikTok followers. For example, Kallie Baker ends with a call-to-action of “Tomorrow, I’ll teach you [this new thing],” in one of her videos.

    @.kalliedanielle

    When you have to tackle the entire house, it’s best to have a step by step plan in order to get it done. Cleaning your house in 8 Steps: 1. Start one load of laundry 2. Trash 3. Two laundry baskets(one for dirty laundry one for clutter) 4. Put everything away and make beds 5. Dishes 6. Dusting and glass 7. Bathrooms 8. Sweep/vacuum and mop #cleanhouse #cleaninghacks #cleaningmotivation #cleaningroutine

    ♬ original sound – .kalliedanielle

    If you’ve watched her video till the end, she’s already succeeded in making you see the value in her content. The call to action gives you a great reason to follow (‘I can learn this too if I follow Kallie!’), too.

    You don’t need to overcomplicate it. If you can’t say the ‘follow me’ using a voiceover because you’re using music, use overlay text somewhere at the bottom or top of your video to nudge the same behavior and get more followers on TikTok.

    9. Start a content series

    A content series is when you create episodic content on a specific topic. It has the binge-able value that keeps your audience returning for more. Plus, a series makes it easier for you to come up with new video ideas.

    Tiffany Yu — who landed $160k in brand partnerships and a book deal using her TikTok account — says her anti-ableism series put her on the map.

    @imtiffanyyu

    My disability does stop me from doing certain things and that’s ok. #AntiAbleism #Disability #DisabilityPride #DisabilityAwareness #TikTokTaughtMe #TikTokPartner

    ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

    “Since launching it, I was named to the inaugural API TikTok Trailblazers list alongside creators like Bella Poarch, and a literary agent who saw it reached out about writing a book,” she said. “The series has nearly 300 posts and over 5 million views.”

    She also explains why she thinks the series helped her with follower growth: “For one, it helps new followers engage more deeply in my content,” she said. “When someone discovers a video and sees it’s ‘part 273,’ they’ll likely be curious to explore other content from the series.”

    Annie-Mai also believes in the power of content series: “Audiences are craving something to latch onto, something that feels familiar, consistent and worth returning to,” she says. “That’s why series content works so well.”

    A series can also help you stay consistent because you can create content on a broad topic without starting from scratch each time. Choose a topic that’s broad enough to require multiple videos and one that your audience is interested in.

    10. Use relevant hashtags and SEO terms

    The TikTok algorithm uses hashtags and keywords within your post to understand what your post is about and put it in front of people who like watching similar videos. SEO also comes into the picture because more and more people are using the TikTok app as a search engine.

    This is why it’s important to use the right hashtags and SEO terms. Use three to five relevant hashtags with each post alongside naturally-woven keywords your audience might be searching for.

    Follow this evergreen TikTok checklist each time before posting:

    • Did your caption contain relevant keywords?
    • Have you included 3-5 hashtags?
    • Did you film within TikTok or use their affiliated app, CapCut?
    • Have you included a TikTok audio?
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025
    💡
    Note: Don’t add irrelevant keywords or hashtags in your TikTok posts. That can hurt more than it would help. 

    According to TikTok’s Creator Academy: “Avoid including irrelevant or misleading keywords based solely on popularity — irrelevant text stacking will actually negatively affect your video traffic,” they say.

    “If you want your video to do well in search, describe your video content accurately and objectively.”

    11. Engage with your community

    Someone who commented on your video might not follow you. Engaging with them by responding to their comment is an easy way to make them return to your video and become more memorable — leading to an eventual follow.

    The TikTok algorithm — like many other platforms — pushes posts with more engagement at the frontline. If you regularly create engaging content that makes people comment and you reply back, you play in favor of the TikTok game.

    But it’s not just about playing the game; it’s also the foundation of building a strong community: Social media is a two-way street. Instead of posting and ghosting, engage with your followers and learn from their feedback.

    Tiffany focused on going the extra mile and giving video replies to her audience:

    @imtiffanyyu

    Reply to @toguboguroblox – how I drive #WelcomeWeek #driverslicense #driversed #brachialplexusinjury #disability #disabilitytiktok #onehand #howidrive

    ♬ Sunset Lover – Petit Biscuit

    “Early on in growing my channel, I not only made sure to try to respond to most of the comments, but I would also respond to questions with video replies,” she says.

    “Not only does that person get notified that you replied, but it also signals to your audience that you are reading the comments and willing to engage with them, making them more excited to stick around.”

    Gaining followers is not in a silo, after all. You don’t want an inflated follower count alone, you want a loyal and engaged community. And responding to every comment you can is the first step to make your followers feel valued and heard.

    12. Collaborate with fellow creators or influencers

    If you’re a creator, collaborating with other creators in the same industry can be a win-win for both parties: Both of you can cross-promote your content in front of new, vetted audiences who will like your content (and potentially follow you).

    There are also TikTok features like a duet or stitch — where you can add your own spin to a popular video. This can be helpful when you want to add to a conversation that’s already a hot topic on TikTok.

    Alice says many of her popular videos were created using stitches.

    @perfectdd

    #stitch with @ashleigh Don’t worry, we’ve got you! No more looking like a tent because of our b!g b00b$. Our clothes have more room by the chest, not everywhere else! Fits up to an M cup. 🍒 👚 fu#fullerbustfashion#midsize#bigchestproblems #fullerbust #icup

    ♬ original sound – PerfectDD

    “Some of our most popular videos lately have been duets or stitches with other women complaining about the exact problems that we’re trying to solve,” she says.

    If you’re a business owner, you can also collaborate with TikTok influencers using influencer marketing and sharing user-generated content.

    • Via influencer marketing, you want to choose relevant creators with a tight-knit, loyal audience to talk about your brand authentically. You can gift them your products with no strings attached or do a paid partnership if you have the budget.
    • Via user-generated content, you can reshare your customers' organic posts and testimonials on your TikTok account. These serve to build trust and help you gain more followers.

    Whether you use duets, stitches, or user-generated content, remember to credit the original creator before reposting (along with asking for permission to repost).

    13. Experiment with video length

    We analyzed over one million posts and found TikTok videos over one minute in length get:

    • 43.2% more reach than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 70.3% more reach than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 95.7% more reach than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    The numbers were similar for average watch time (a crucial ingredient of the TikTok algorithm). TikToks longer than a minute got:

    • 63.8% more watch time than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 175.6% more watch time than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 264.5% more watch time than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While TikTok became famous for short-form video content, videos under 10 seconds are no longer the only way to keep your audience engaged. Instead, create content that focuses on providing value and experiment with various video lengths to find the one that works best for you.

    Engaging content has no ideal length — it all depends on the topic at hand, your video editing chops, and your audience’s preferences.

    14. Don’t buy TikTok followers

    You’ll see loads of companies trying to sell bots as TikTok followers. But taking this shortcut isn’t just against TikTok’s Community Guidelines, it also doesn’t fulfill your larger purpose: building a loyal following.

    In fact, gaining followers this way could hurt your TikTok presence because it harms your personal brand and overall reputation.

    Your actual TikTok followers might put two and two together when they don’t see your engagement and follower count number adding up (or when bots comment generic compliments on all your videos). This will hurt your brand presence immensely in the long run.

    There’s no denying that getting more followers on TikTok is hard work — it requires a lot of patience.

    But buying followers isn’t going to make that any easier. Focusing on creating high-quality content for your target audience — without fussing too much over that follower count — might make it a bit more enjoyable.

    Growing on TikTok isn’t a one-time affair

    TikTok marketing is a whole host of things — increasing your follower count is a small, ongoing part of it.

    What you don’t need in addition to creating content regularly, engaging with your followers, and keeping up with new features (along with algorithmic changes and potential ban fears), is also taking up the admin work of posting everything manually and tracking the results of your efforts.

    Outsource those tasks to Buffer so you can focus on the important things that’ll give you a better ROI on your time. Take it for a free spin today.

    More TikTok resources:

    My TikTok Experiment: How I Grew My Following by More Than 1,000% in 30 Days

    TikTok Has Landed Me $160K in Brand Partnerships and a 6-Figure Book Deal — Here’s How I Did ItHow to Use TikTok Studio: A Handy Tool for Growing on the Platform15 Trending Songs on TikTok in 2025 (+ How to Use Them)

  • How to Schedule Instagram Stories in 2025 (2 Easy Methods + Tips)

    How to Schedule Instagram Stories in 2025 (2 Easy Methods + Tips)

    Two ways to schedule and publish Instagram Stories, step-by-step, plus tips and tricks to get the most out of your stories and content. 14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    One of my favorite things about TikTok is that it doesn’t play favorites. Even the newest accounts have a fair shot at reaching thousands (or millions!) of people.

    The idea of a “welcoming” algorithm might feel strange to long-time creators and social media managers, but if there ever was one, it would be TikTok’s. 

    The social media platform is bursting with potential. With over 1.58 billion users spending nearly an hour every day on the app, chances are your audience is already waiting to discover — and follow — you.

    Now, follower count isn’t everything. But it does open doors. It helps you build trust, unlock cool features like the TikTok Shop, and grow a loyal community that vibes with your content.

    In this guide, you’ll learn how to get more followers on TikTok using 14 solid, no-fluff, actionable tips.

    Just real, practical strategies that work. If you prefer watching over reading, we’ve summarized the top five tips for you in video form, too:

    1. Choose a niche — and stick to it

    It’s tempting to throw stuff on the wall and see what sticks — especially on TikTok, where the vibes are more chilled thaon n other social media platforms. But having a niche — even a broad one — has plenty of benefits:

    • It tells the TikTok algorithm what your content is about
    • It helps you filter your content ideas to a specific topic
    • It helps you build authority and trust in your industry
    • It makes you more memorable to TikTok users

    Kirsti Lang, a Senior Content Writer at Buffer, grew her following by over 1,000% in 30 days. One of her core learnings was that a niche (or a handful of connected niches) is immensely valuable for growing a loyal following.

    “If you do find a video you enjoy or find helpful in your FYP, you may tap over to the creator’s profile to see if there are more,” she says. “And if what you find there is a hot mess of all sorts of unrelated things, you’re going to bounce back to the FYP without tapping ‘follow’ real fast.”

    Annie-Mai Hodge, founder of Girl Power Marketing, agrees: “People are wanting and searching for spaces and communities where they belong, where they can relate, and where they feel understood,” she says. “So they’re actively looking for creators who get them, or provide an experience for them like escaping — it’s why #BookTok is so huge.”

    If you feel constricted by having a singular niche, have a broad one that can fit multiple content pillars — quenching your desire for spontaneity and creativity without violating the algorithm’s preference for cohesiveness.

    For example, Kirsti first posted about various topics: her job at Buffer, her love of Taylor Swift, and her fitness routine. But despite one of her Swiftie videos going viral, her watcher-to-follower conversion rate remained low.

    Her other videos about how to land a remote job did much better for that metric, even if they didn’t go viral.

    @itsmekirsti

    Replying to @NikitaJade This is the exact process I would use to find a remote job from outside the U.S. if I was starting from scratch today! I wanted to follow up on my chaotic grwm video yesterday with something a little more structured — this is my step-by-step guide to finding and landing a remote job, particularly in the tech industry. Screenshot my notes at the end of the video! Let me know if you have any questions. 😊 #remotejob #remotework #jobsearch #jobsearchtips #remotejobs #wfh

    ♬ My Frequency – Rickert Ponce

    “The Swifties were tapping over to my profile and didn’t find a Taylor Swift fan account,” she says. “The remote work video netted a very pleasing 70K views, and I earned a huge chunk of new followers — 757, to be exact — and a much healthier conversation rate.”

    Lessons learned: Going viral doesn’t guarantee higher follower counts. You need a niche to establish yourself as an authority on the topic to gain followers and tell TikTok users (and the algorithm) what your TikTok account is about.

    If you’re having too much trouble deciding what your niche will be, shift gears a little bit and think about who you’re creating TikTok videos for. Which brings me to my next point.

    2. Understand your target audience

    Having a solid understanding of who your target audience is and what they’re looking for is the bedrock of getting more followers on all social media platforms, TikTok included.

    CEO of Fashivly, Ashlyn Greer, has grown the brand’s TikTok account to over 100k followers. Her core principle has always been to use TikTok to resonate with her audience by understanding (and catering to) her audience’s struggles. Take her video about sizing discrepancies in the fashion industry — it went viral because it struck a chord.

    @fashivly

    the chokehold these jeans had on us #greenscreen #greenscreenvideo #millennial

    ♬ original sound – fashivly

    “We’ve continued to create inclusive content based on [audience] insights,” she says. “Understanding their pain points has guided our content creation and ensured we stay as inclusive as possible because we know this approach resonates with our audience.”

    Solidifying your niche will lay the groundwork to help you pinpoint the segment of TikTok users you want to reach. The second step is doing your research to figure out your target audience’s pain points and content preferences.

    Audience research tools like SparkToro or AnswerThePublic can help you find your audience’s burning questions. But you can also work on understanding your target audience by spending time on TikTok and conducting a competitor analysis. For example, if you’re a creator focusing on creating healthy vegan recipes:

    • Search for “healthy vegan recipes” on TikTok and see what pops up
    • Analyze the best-performing TikTok videos and creators to understand what topics they’re creating videos on and which are resonating
    • Pay attention to the comments on your fellow creators’ videos to dive even further into your audience’s questions, preferences, and recommendations

    Understanding your target audience is an ongoing endeavor rather than a one-off task. The more you post (and experiment!), the more feedback you get — in comments, direct messages (DMs), and your TikTok analytics.

    3. Write a clear and compelling bio

    Your potential followers on TikTok will likely discover your content in the For You Page (FYP). But they might often navigate to your TikTok profile to learn more about who you are and what you post about.

    If your TikTok bio is empty, you’re leaving valuable space that could work to get you more followers.

    Your bio should tell what content you create — establish your niche and your unique selling point. Instead of making it about you though, focus on your audience and make it about them.

    For example, Parker York Smith’s bio says, “Helping you look good and feel confident,” which is an instant value prop for why you should follow him.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While you’re at it, also ensure that your TikTok profile is up to date — have a clear profile picture and an easy-to-read username. All of the factors in your profile will work together to help build trust and make it tempting to follow you.

    4. Build a content calendar to post consistently

    TikTok, like all other social media platforms, loves consistency. The ideal posting frequency for TikTok is two short-form videos a day. 

    But take that number with a grain of salt. You can adjust this based on your capacity — more important to maintain the quality of your TikTok videos. 

    Kirsti, for example, has seen solid audience growth with two or three videos a month.

    A smart way to increase your posting cadence without burning out is to repurpose your content. If you already have a YouTube channel, for instance, you can chop up some videos from there to post on your TikTok account. You can also shoot b-roll in bulk (hello, content batching) and reuse it for future videos.

    Alice Kim, founder of PerfectDD, used TikTok to generate $25,000 in sales for her business in a month. She found that many of her old videos would resurface to new TikTok users, thanks to the algorithm. Having a consistent branding (alongside regular posting) helped her immensely in this scenario.

    “I’ve found consistency in messaging is more important than consistency of posting,” she says. “This means that any of my videos could be seen by a new potential customer at any time."

    "That’s why I’m unafraid to reiterate my brand promise and message over and over again, so people who are new to my videos always know what PerfectDD is all about.”

    The easiest way to maintain a consistent posting schedule is by creating a content calendar and using a tool like Buffer to automate posting (Buffer also doubles as a content calendar — so you don’t need both!). This way, you can visually spot your content gaps and fill them.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Remember to leave some room in that content calendar for trending content.

    Let’s be clear: Trending content isn’t a magic bullet to increase your TikTok followers. But it can help you become more visible on the For You Page — which can, by extension, help you get more followers on TikTok.

    While creating your content calendar, leave some gaps for trending videos. Or you could treat them as bonus posts! There can be three kinds of trends:

    • TikTok trends: A trend that’s unique to the TikTok app, like challenge videos.
    • Trending songs: You can often find trending songs used behind TikTok videos.
    • Industry-specific trends: Trends related to a specific news or event in your niche.

    If you scroll on TikTok regularly, you’ll automatically start finding these trends on your FYP. Some trends are also tied to a specific period, like the holidays or the fall season. Most trending content will be time-sensitive, so you need to jump on trends before they fade.

    Keep two things in mind before hopping on trends:

    • Your trending videos still need to fit your niche. Don’t participate in a trend if it’s not true to your brand values or can’t be molded for your industry.
    • Balance trending content with evergreen content. Trending posts can provide you with viral moments and boost visibility, but the real gold is the evergreen content that makes people follow you and stick around.

    Alice experienced this herself:

    “Sometimes, trendy TikToks didn’t work because the trend wasn’t authentic enough to me and my brand. The trends that have most benefited my business are the ones I personally had an emotional reaction to,” she said. 

    “I still try the trends when they’re easy and fun for me, but what people really pick up on are the videos in which I’m authentically sharing my experience and talking about my brand.”

    Your TikTok strategy should include a healthy mix of trending and evergreen content. Trending videos might bring in a large TikTok audience to your profile, but evergreen content is what will make them stick around.

    And while you’re creating that content calendar (hopefully using a smart tool like Buffer!), you also want to select the right time to post.

    6. Post at the right time

    There’s no such thing as the right time to start working on your goals. Or meet your soulmate. Or having a sweet treat. But posting on TikTok? Yep, there’s a right time for that one.

    You don’t want to post when your engagement will be low. Or when there’ll be too much competition and your video will drown in the noise. Or when your audience is fast asleep.

    The goal is to post when video discoverability is at an all-time high so you get more engagement. Based on our analysis of one million TikTok posts, that time is between 4-5 p.m. mid-week.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Posting at the right time might sound like a small, insignificant thing. And it is a relatively small piece of the puzzle of how to get more followers on TikTok. But it can help your TikTok content get that initial boost it needs to get in front of the right audience at the perfect time.

    7. Focus on scroll-stopping hooks

    Short-form video content (whether it’s TikTok videos, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts) thrives when the first few seconds of your video can quickly grab attention.

    Take this video by Erin McGoff: The “I got the job!” phrase quickly piques interest and curiosity. The following line, “Ugh, that salary is way too low,” holds it. You want to know what the character would do next.

    @erinmcgoff

    🔬 According to Forbes, people who negotiate their salary (especially their first job!) make significantly more money throughout their life. 🇺🇸 In the U.S., negotiating your salary is common etiquette! Companies expect you to counter the first offer. The first offer is rarely their best offer. If it is, they’ll usually tell you that. Yet, 55% of candidates don’t negotiate. 😭 BUT, out of those who do? 85% get some or ALL of what they asked for. 🤑 🤷🏼‍♀️ Negotiating doesn’t have to be confrontational, awkward, or uncomfortable. If you use the right words, tone, and approach, you’ll have the company saying “you’ve got a deal!” in no time. 🫶🏼 I’m SUPER passionate about helping people advocate for themselves and make more money. 📝 That’s why I wrote a complete salary negotiation guide and sell it for $49.99! …jk, IT’S FREE! Link in bio 🙂 You got this 👏 money salary negotiation careeradvice

    ♬ original sound – AdviceWithErin✨ – AdviceWithErin✨

    Your hook can be the audio, the visual, the text on the screen, or all three combined. The goal is to stop the scroll. Think: What would my audience see or hear and immediately stop in their tracks?

    Use copywriting formulas and closely observe the hooks that make you want to watch more. Slowly but surely, you’ll learn to craft impeccable hooks.

    Hooks might not seem like a TikTok strategy for follower growth, but a strong hook is what gets your foot in the door. Once someone is hooked (pun intended) to your TikTok content, they’ll stick around till the end to see it through. And if they like what they see, they’ll tap the follow button to see more of it.

    💡
    Note: It’s important to avoid clickbait in your hooks while creating TikTok content. They might reel TikTok users in, but they won’t keep viewers engaged till the end. Genuine engagement will only come from hooks that are well-crafted and true.

    8. End your videos with a strong call-to-action

    Here’s something I learned in therapy that applies to TikTok marketing, too (the parallels of life remain unparalleled, amirite?): You gotta ask for what you need.

    Maybe your TikTok videos are epic, but are you asking viewers to follow you? It could be something as simple as “Follow me for more [your niche] tips!”

    Another thing you could do is tease what you’re going to post about in the future that might also interest your potential TikTok followers. For example, Kallie Baker ends with a call-to-action of “Tomorrow, I’ll teach you [this new thing],” in one of her videos.

    @.kalliedanielle

    When you have to tackle the entire house, it’s best to have a step by step plan in order to get it done. Cleaning your house in 8 Steps: 1. Start one load of laundry 2. Trash 3. Two laundry baskets(one for dirty laundry one for clutter) 4. Put everything away and make beds 5. Dishes 6. Dusting and glass 7. Bathrooms 8. Sweep/vacuum and mop #cleanhouse #cleaninghacks #cleaningmotivation #cleaningroutine

    ♬ original sound – .kalliedanielle

    If you’ve watched her video till the end, she’s already succeeded in making you see the value in her content. The call to action gives you a great reason to follow (‘I can learn this too if I follow Kallie!’), too.

    You don’t need to overcomplicate it. If you can’t say the ‘follow me’ using a voiceover because you’re using music, use overlay text somewhere at the bottom or top of your video to nudge the same behavior and get more followers on TikTok.

    9. Start a content series

    A content series is when you create episodic content on a specific topic. It has the binge-able value that keeps your audience returning for more. Plus, a series makes it easier for you to come up with new video ideas.

    Tiffany Yu — who landed $160k in brand partnerships and a book deal using her TikTok account — says her anti-ableism series put her on the map.

    @imtiffanyyu

    My disability does stop me from doing certain things and that’s ok. #AntiAbleism #Disability #DisabilityPride #DisabilityAwareness #TikTokTaughtMe #TikTokPartner

    ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

    “Since launching it, I was named to the inaugural API TikTok Trailblazers list alongside creators like Bella Poarch, and a literary agent who saw it reached out about writing a book,” she said. “The series has nearly 300 posts and over 5 million views.”

    She also explains why she thinks the series helped her with follower growth: “For one, it helps new followers engage more deeply in my content,” she said. “When someone discovers a video and sees it’s ‘part 273,’ they’ll likely be curious to explore other content from the series.”

    Annie-Mai also believes in the power of content series: “Audiences are craving something to latch onto, something that feels familiar, consistent and worth returning to,” she says. “That’s why series content works so well.”

    A series can also help you stay consistent because you can create content on a broad topic without starting from scratch each time. Choose a topic that’s broad enough to require multiple videos and one that your audience is interested in.

    10. Use relevant hashtags and SEO terms

    The TikTok algorithm uses hashtags and keywords within your post to understand what your post is about and put it in front of people who like watching similar videos. SEO also comes into the picture because more and more people are using the TikTok app as a search engine.

    This is why it’s important to use the right hashtags and SEO terms. Use three to five relevant hashtags with each post alongside naturally-woven keywords your audience might be searching for.

    Follow this evergreen TikTok checklist each time before posting:

    • Did your caption contain relevant keywords?
    • Have you included 3-5 hashtags?
    • Did you film within TikTok or use their affiliated app, CapCut?
    • Have you included a TikTok audio?
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025
    💡
    Note: Don’t add irrelevant keywords or hashtags in your TikTok posts. That can hurt more than it would help. 

    According to TikTok’s Creator Academy: “Avoid including irrelevant or misleading keywords based solely on popularity — irrelevant text stacking will actually negatively affect your video traffic,” they say.

    “If you want your video to do well in search, describe your video content accurately and objectively.”

    11. Engage with your community

    Someone who commented on your video might not follow you. Engaging with them by responding to their comment is an easy way to make them return to your video and become more memorable — leading to an eventual follow.

    The TikTok algorithm — like many other platforms — pushes posts with more engagement at the frontline. If you regularly create engaging content that makes people comment and you reply back, you play in favor of the TikTok game.

    But it’s not just about playing the game; it’s also the foundation of building a strong community: Social media is a two-way street. Instead of posting and ghosting, engage with your followers and learn from their feedback.

    Tiffany focused on going the extra mile and giving video replies to her audience:

    @imtiffanyyu

    Reply to @toguboguroblox – how I drive #WelcomeWeek #driverslicense #driversed #brachialplexusinjury #disability #disabilitytiktok #onehand #howidrive

    ♬ Sunset Lover – Petit Biscuit

    “Early on in growing my channel, I not only made sure to try to respond to most of the comments, but I would also respond to questions with video replies,” she says.

    “Not only does that person get notified that you replied, but it also signals to your audience that you are reading the comments and willing to engage with them, making them more excited to stick around.”

    Gaining followers is not in a silo, after all. You don’t want an inflated follower count alone, you want a loyal and engaged community. And responding to every comment you can is the first step to make your followers feel valued and heard.

    12. Collaborate with fellow creators or influencers

    If you’re a creator, collaborating with other creators in the same industry can be a win-win for both parties: Both of you can cross-promote your content in front of new, vetted audiences who will like your content (and potentially follow you).

    There are also TikTok features like a duet or stitch — where you can add your own spin to a popular video. This can be helpful when you want to add to a conversation that’s already a hot topic on TikTok.

    Alice says many of her popular videos were created using stitches.

    @perfectdd

    #stitch with @ashleigh Don’t worry, we’ve got you! No more looking like a tent because of our b!g b00b$. Our clothes have more room by the chest, not everywhere else! Fits up to an M cup. 🍒 👚 fu#fullerbustfashion#midsize#bigchestproblems #fullerbust #icup

    ♬ original sound – PerfectDD

    “Some of our most popular videos lately have been duets or stitches with other women complaining about the exact problems that we’re trying to solve,” she says.

    If you’re a business owner, you can also collaborate with TikTok influencers using influencer marketing and sharing user-generated content.

    • Via influencer marketing, you want to choose relevant creators with a tight-knit, loyal audience to talk about your brand authentically. You can gift them your products with no strings attached or do a paid partnership if you have the budget.
    • Via user-generated content, you can reshare your customers' organic posts and testimonials on your TikTok account. These serve to build trust and help you gain more followers.

    Whether you use duets, stitches, or user-generated content, remember to credit the original creator before reposting (along with asking for permission to repost).

    13. Experiment with video length

    We analyzed over one million posts and found TikTok videos over one minute in length get:

    • 43.2% more reach than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 70.3% more reach than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 95.7% more reach than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    The numbers were similar for average watch time (a crucial ingredient of the TikTok algorithm). TikToks longer than a minute got:

    • 63.8% more watch time than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 175.6% more watch time than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 264.5% more watch time than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While TikTok became famous for short-form video content, videos under 10 seconds are no longer the only way to keep your audience engaged. Instead, create content that focuses on providing value and experiment with various video lengths to find the one that works best for you.

    Engaging content has no ideal length — it all depends on the topic at hand, your video editing chops, and your audience’s preferences.

    14. Don’t buy TikTok followers

    You’ll see loads of companies trying to sell bots as TikTok followers. But taking this shortcut isn’t just against TikTok’s Community Guidelines, it also doesn’t fulfill your larger purpose: building a loyal following.

    In fact, gaining followers this way could hurt your TikTok presence because it harms your personal brand and overall reputation.

    Your actual TikTok followers might put two and two together when they don’t see your engagement and follower count number adding up (or when bots comment generic compliments on all your videos). This will hurt your brand presence immensely in the long run.

    There’s no denying that getting more followers on TikTok is hard work — it requires a lot of patience.

    But buying followers isn’t going to make that any easier. Focusing on creating high-quality content for your target audience — without fussing too much over that follower count — might make it a bit more enjoyable.

    Growing on TikTok isn’t a one-time affair

    TikTok marketing is a whole host of things — increasing your follower count is a small, ongoing part of it.

    What you don’t need in addition to creating content regularly, engaging with your followers, and keeping up with new features (along with algorithmic changes and potential ban fears), is also taking up the admin work of posting everything manually and tracking the results of your efforts.

    Outsource those tasks to Buffer so you can focus on the important things that’ll give you a better ROI on your time. Take it for a free spin today.

    More TikTok resources:

    My TikTok Experiment: How I Grew My Following by More Than 1,000% in 30 Days

    TikTok Has Landed Me $160K in Brand Partnerships and a 6-Figure Book Deal — Here’s How I Did ItHow to Use TikTok Studio: A Handy Tool for Growing on the Platform15 Trending Songs on TikTok in 2025 (+ How to Use Them)

  • The Best Social Media Scheduling Tools in 2025 (+ How to Find the Perfect Fit)

    The Best Social Media Scheduling Tools in 2025 (+ How to Find the Perfect Fit)

    Schedule smarter, not harder. Compare the top social media scheduling tools of 2025, see side-by-side features & pricing, and learn how to choose the right scheduler for your workflow. 14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    One of my favorite things about TikTok is that it doesn’t play favorites. Even the newest accounts have a fair shot at reaching thousands (or millions!) of people.

    The idea of a “welcoming” algorithm might feel strange to long-time creators and social media managers, but if there ever was one, it would be TikTok’s. 

    The social media platform is bursting with potential. With over 1.58 billion users spending nearly an hour every day on the app, chances are your audience is already waiting to discover — and follow — you.

    Now, follower count isn’t everything. But it does open doors. It helps you build trust, unlock cool features like the TikTok Shop, and grow a loyal community that vibes with your content.

    In this guide, you’ll learn how to get more followers on TikTok using 14 solid, no-fluff, actionable tips.

    Just real, practical strategies that work. If you prefer watching over reading, we’ve summarized the top five tips for you in video form, too:

    1. Choose a niche — and stick to it

    It’s tempting to throw stuff on the wall and see what sticks — especially on TikTok, where the vibes are more chilled thaon n other social media platforms. But having a niche — even a broad one — has plenty of benefits:

    • It tells the TikTok algorithm what your content is about
    • It helps you filter your content ideas to a specific topic
    • It helps you build authority and trust in your industry
    • It makes you more memorable to TikTok users

    Kirsti Lang, a Senior Content Writer at Buffer, grew her following by over 1,000% in 30 days. One of her core learnings was that a niche (or a handful of connected niches) is immensely valuable for growing a loyal following.

    “If you do find a video you enjoy or find helpful in your FYP, you may tap over to the creator’s profile to see if there are more,” she says. “And if what you find there is a hot mess of all sorts of unrelated things, you’re going to bounce back to the FYP without tapping ‘follow’ real fast.”

    Annie-Mai Hodge, founder of Girl Power Marketing, agrees: “People are wanting and searching for spaces and communities where they belong, where they can relate, and where they feel understood,” she says. “So they’re actively looking for creators who get them, or provide an experience for them like escaping — it’s why #BookTok is so huge.”

    If you feel constricted by having a singular niche, have a broad one that can fit multiple content pillars — quenching your desire for spontaneity and creativity without violating the algorithm’s preference for cohesiveness.

    For example, Kirsti first posted about various topics: her job at Buffer, her love of Taylor Swift, and her fitness routine. But despite one of her Swiftie videos going viral, her watcher-to-follower conversion rate remained low.

    Her other videos about how to land a remote job did much better for that metric, even if they didn’t go viral.

    @itsmekirsti

    Replying to @NikitaJade This is the exact process I would use to find a remote job from outside the U.S. if I was starting from scratch today! I wanted to follow up on my chaotic grwm video yesterday with something a little more structured — this is my step-by-step guide to finding and landing a remote job, particularly in the tech industry. Screenshot my notes at the end of the video! Let me know if you have any questions. 😊 #remotejob #remotework #jobsearch #jobsearchtips #remotejobs #wfh

    ♬ My Frequency – Rickert Ponce

    “The Swifties were tapping over to my profile and didn’t find a Taylor Swift fan account,” she says. “The remote work video netted a very pleasing 70K views, and I earned a huge chunk of new followers — 757, to be exact — and a much healthier conversation rate.”

    Lessons learned: Going viral doesn’t guarantee higher follower counts. You need a niche to establish yourself as an authority on the topic to gain followers and tell TikTok users (and the algorithm) what your TikTok account is about.

    If you’re having too much trouble deciding what your niche will be, shift gears a little bit and think about who you’re creating TikTok videos for. Which brings me to my next point.

    2. Understand your target audience

    Having a solid understanding of who your target audience is and what they’re looking for is the bedrock of getting more followers on all social media platforms, TikTok included.

    CEO of Fashivly, Ashlyn Greer, has grown the brand’s TikTok account to over 100k followers. Her core principle has always been to use TikTok to resonate with her audience by understanding (and catering to) her audience’s struggles. Take her video about sizing discrepancies in the fashion industry — it went viral because it struck a chord.

    @fashivly

    the chokehold these jeans had on us #greenscreen #greenscreenvideo #millennial

    ♬ original sound – fashivly

    “We’ve continued to create inclusive content based on [audience] insights,” she says. “Understanding their pain points has guided our content creation and ensured we stay as inclusive as possible because we know this approach resonates with our audience.”

    Solidifying your niche will lay the groundwork to help you pinpoint the segment of TikTok users you want to reach. The second step is doing your research to figure out your target audience’s pain points and content preferences.

    Audience research tools like SparkToro or AnswerThePublic can help you find your audience’s burning questions. But you can also work on understanding your target audience by spending time on TikTok and conducting a competitor analysis. For example, if you’re a creator focusing on creating healthy vegan recipes:

    • Search for “healthy vegan recipes” on TikTok and see what pops up
    • Analyze the best-performing TikTok videos and creators to understand what topics they’re creating videos on and which are resonating
    • Pay attention to the comments on your fellow creators’ videos to dive even further into your audience’s questions, preferences, and recommendations

    Understanding your target audience is an ongoing endeavor rather than a one-off task. The more you post (and experiment!), the more feedback you get — in comments, direct messages (DMs), and your TikTok analytics.

    3. Write a clear and compelling bio

    Your potential followers on TikTok will likely discover your content in the For You Page (FYP). But they might often navigate to your TikTok profile to learn more about who you are and what you post about.

    If your TikTok bio is empty, you’re leaving valuable space that could work to get you more followers.

    Your bio should tell what content you create — establish your niche and your unique selling point. Instead of making it about you though, focus on your audience and make it about them.

    For example, Parker York Smith’s bio says, “Helping you look good and feel confident,” which is an instant value prop for why you should follow him.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While you’re at it, also ensure that your TikTok profile is up to date — have a clear profile picture and an easy-to-read username. All of the factors in your profile will work together to help build trust and make it tempting to follow you.

    4. Build a content calendar to post consistently

    TikTok, like all other social media platforms, loves consistency. The ideal posting frequency for TikTok is two short-form videos a day. 

    But take that number with a grain of salt. You can adjust this based on your capacity — more important to maintain the quality of your TikTok videos. 

    Kirsti, for example, has seen solid audience growth with two or three videos a month.

    A smart way to increase your posting cadence without burning out is to repurpose your content. If you already have a YouTube channel, for instance, you can chop up some videos from there to post on your TikTok account. You can also shoot b-roll in bulk (hello, content batching) and reuse it for future videos.

    Alice Kim, founder of PerfectDD, used TikTok to generate $25,000 in sales for her business in a month. She found that many of her old videos would resurface to new TikTok users, thanks to the algorithm. Having a consistent branding (alongside regular posting) helped her immensely in this scenario.

    “I’ve found consistency in messaging is more important than consistency of posting,” she says. “This means that any of my videos could be seen by a new potential customer at any time."

    "That’s why I’m unafraid to reiterate my brand promise and message over and over again, so people who are new to my videos always know what PerfectDD is all about.”

    The easiest way to maintain a consistent posting schedule is by creating a content calendar and using a tool like Buffer to automate posting (Buffer also doubles as a content calendar — so you don’t need both!). This way, you can visually spot your content gaps and fill them.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Remember to leave some room in that content calendar for trending content.

    Let’s be clear: Trending content isn’t a magic bullet to increase your TikTok followers. But it can help you become more visible on the For You Page — which can, by extension, help you get more followers on TikTok.

    While creating your content calendar, leave some gaps for trending videos. Or you could treat them as bonus posts! There can be three kinds of trends:

    • TikTok trends: A trend that’s unique to the TikTok app, like challenge videos.
    • Trending songs: You can often find trending songs used behind TikTok videos.
    • Industry-specific trends: Trends related to a specific news or event in your niche.

    If you scroll on TikTok regularly, you’ll automatically start finding these trends on your FYP. Some trends are also tied to a specific period, like the holidays or the fall season. Most trending content will be time-sensitive, so you need to jump on trends before they fade.

    Keep two things in mind before hopping on trends:

    • Your trending videos still need to fit your niche. Don’t participate in a trend if it’s not true to your brand values or can’t be molded for your industry.
    • Balance trending content with evergreen content. Trending posts can provide you with viral moments and boost visibility, but the real gold is the evergreen content that makes people follow you and stick around.

    Alice experienced this herself:

    “Sometimes, trendy TikToks didn’t work because the trend wasn’t authentic enough to me and my brand. The trends that have most benefited my business are the ones I personally had an emotional reaction to,” she said. 

    “I still try the trends when they’re easy and fun for me, but what people really pick up on are the videos in which I’m authentically sharing my experience and talking about my brand.”

    Your TikTok strategy should include a healthy mix of trending and evergreen content. Trending videos might bring in a large TikTok audience to your profile, but evergreen content is what will make them stick around.

    And while you’re creating that content calendar (hopefully using a smart tool like Buffer!), you also want to select the right time to post.

    6. Post at the right time

    There’s no such thing as the right time to start working on your goals. Or meet your soulmate. Or having a sweet treat. But posting on TikTok? Yep, there’s a right time for that one.

    You don’t want to post when your engagement will be low. Or when there’ll be too much competition and your video will drown in the noise. Or when your audience is fast asleep.

    The goal is to post when video discoverability is at an all-time high so you get more engagement. Based on our analysis of one million TikTok posts, that time is between 4-5 p.m. mid-week.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Posting at the right time might sound like a small, insignificant thing. And it is a relatively small piece of the puzzle of how to get more followers on TikTok. But it can help your TikTok content get that initial boost it needs to get in front of the right audience at the perfect time.

    7. Focus on scroll-stopping hooks

    Short-form video content (whether it’s TikTok videos, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts) thrives when the first few seconds of your video can quickly grab attention.

    Take this video by Erin McGoff: The “I got the job!” phrase quickly piques interest and curiosity. The following line, “Ugh, that salary is way too low,” holds it. You want to know what the character would do next.

    @erinmcgoff

    🔬 According to Forbes, people who negotiate their salary (especially their first job!) make significantly more money throughout their life. 🇺🇸 In the U.S., negotiating your salary is common etiquette! Companies expect you to counter the first offer. The first offer is rarely their best offer. If it is, they’ll usually tell you that. Yet, 55% of candidates don’t negotiate. 😭 BUT, out of those who do? 85% get some or ALL of what they asked for. 🤑 🤷🏼‍♀️ Negotiating doesn’t have to be confrontational, awkward, or uncomfortable. If you use the right words, tone, and approach, you’ll have the company saying “you’ve got a deal!” in no time. 🫶🏼 I’m SUPER passionate about helping people advocate for themselves and make more money. 📝 That’s why I wrote a complete salary negotiation guide and sell it for $49.99! …jk, IT’S FREE! Link in bio 🙂 You got this 👏 money salary negotiation careeradvice

    ♬ original sound – AdviceWithErin✨ – AdviceWithErin✨

    Your hook can be the audio, the visual, the text on the screen, or all three combined. The goal is to stop the scroll. Think: What would my audience see or hear and immediately stop in their tracks?

    Use copywriting formulas and closely observe the hooks that make you want to watch more. Slowly but surely, you’ll learn to craft impeccable hooks.

    Hooks might not seem like a TikTok strategy for follower growth, but a strong hook is what gets your foot in the door. Once someone is hooked (pun intended) to your TikTok content, they’ll stick around till the end to see it through. And if they like what they see, they’ll tap the follow button to see more of it.

    💡
    Note: It’s important to avoid clickbait in your hooks while creating TikTok content. They might reel TikTok users in, but they won’t keep viewers engaged till the end. Genuine engagement will only come from hooks that are well-crafted and true.

    8. End your videos with a strong call-to-action

    Here’s something I learned in therapy that applies to TikTok marketing, too (the parallels of life remain unparalleled, amirite?): You gotta ask for what you need.

    Maybe your TikTok videos are epic, but are you asking viewers to follow you? It could be something as simple as “Follow me for more [your niche] tips!”

    Another thing you could do is tease what you’re going to post about in the future that might also interest your potential TikTok followers. For example, Kallie Baker ends with a call-to-action of “Tomorrow, I’ll teach you [this new thing],” in one of her videos.

    @.kalliedanielle

    When you have to tackle the entire house, it’s best to have a step by step plan in order to get it done. Cleaning your house in 8 Steps: 1. Start one load of laundry 2. Trash 3. Two laundry baskets(one for dirty laundry one for clutter) 4. Put everything away and make beds 5. Dishes 6. Dusting and glass 7. Bathrooms 8. Sweep/vacuum and mop #cleanhouse #cleaninghacks #cleaningmotivation #cleaningroutine

    ♬ original sound – .kalliedanielle

    If you’ve watched her video till the end, she’s already succeeded in making you see the value in her content. The call to action gives you a great reason to follow (‘I can learn this too if I follow Kallie!’), too.

    You don’t need to overcomplicate it. If you can’t say the ‘follow me’ using a voiceover because you’re using music, use overlay text somewhere at the bottom or top of your video to nudge the same behavior and get more followers on TikTok.

    9. Start a content series

    A content series is when you create episodic content on a specific topic. It has the binge-able value that keeps your audience returning for more. Plus, a series makes it easier for you to come up with new video ideas.

    Tiffany Yu — who landed $160k in brand partnerships and a book deal using her TikTok account — says her anti-ableism series put her on the map.

    @imtiffanyyu

    My disability does stop me from doing certain things and that’s ok. #AntiAbleism #Disability #DisabilityPride #DisabilityAwareness #TikTokTaughtMe #TikTokPartner

    ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

    “Since launching it, I was named to the inaugural API TikTok Trailblazers list alongside creators like Bella Poarch, and a literary agent who saw it reached out about writing a book,” she said. “The series has nearly 300 posts and over 5 million views.”

    She also explains why she thinks the series helped her with follower growth: “For one, it helps new followers engage more deeply in my content,” she said. “When someone discovers a video and sees it’s ‘part 273,’ they’ll likely be curious to explore other content from the series.”

    Annie-Mai also believes in the power of content series: “Audiences are craving something to latch onto, something that feels familiar, consistent and worth returning to,” she says. “That’s why series content works so well.”

    A series can also help you stay consistent because you can create content on a broad topic without starting from scratch each time. Choose a topic that’s broad enough to require multiple videos and one that your audience is interested in.

    10. Use relevant hashtags and SEO terms

    The TikTok algorithm uses hashtags and keywords within your post to understand what your post is about and put it in front of people who like watching similar videos. SEO also comes into the picture because more and more people are using the TikTok app as a search engine.

    This is why it’s important to use the right hashtags and SEO terms. Use three to five relevant hashtags with each post alongside naturally-woven keywords your audience might be searching for.

    Follow this evergreen TikTok checklist each time before posting:

    • Did your caption contain relevant keywords?
    • Have you included 3-5 hashtags?
    • Did you film within TikTok or use their affiliated app, CapCut?
    • Have you included a TikTok audio?
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025
    💡
    Note: Don’t add irrelevant keywords or hashtags in your TikTok posts. That can hurt more than it would help. 

    According to TikTok’s Creator Academy: “Avoid including irrelevant or misleading keywords based solely on popularity — irrelevant text stacking will actually negatively affect your video traffic,” they say.

    “If you want your video to do well in search, describe your video content accurately and objectively.”

    11. Engage with your community

    Someone who commented on your video might not follow you. Engaging with them by responding to their comment is an easy way to make them return to your video and become more memorable — leading to an eventual follow.

    The TikTok algorithm — like many other platforms — pushes posts with more engagement at the frontline. If you regularly create engaging content that makes people comment and you reply back, you play in favor of the TikTok game.

    But it’s not just about playing the game; it’s also the foundation of building a strong community: Social media is a two-way street. Instead of posting and ghosting, engage with your followers and learn from their feedback.

    Tiffany focused on going the extra mile and giving video replies to her audience:

    @imtiffanyyu

    Reply to @toguboguroblox – how I drive #WelcomeWeek #driverslicense #driversed #brachialplexusinjury #disability #disabilitytiktok #onehand #howidrive

    ♬ Sunset Lover – Petit Biscuit

    “Early on in growing my channel, I not only made sure to try to respond to most of the comments, but I would also respond to questions with video replies,” she says.

    “Not only does that person get notified that you replied, but it also signals to your audience that you are reading the comments and willing to engage with them, making them more excited to stick around.”

    Gaining followers is not in a silo, after all. You don’t want an inflated follower count alone, you want a loyal and engaged community. And responding to every comment you can is the first step to make your followers feel valued and heard.

    12. Collaborate with fellow creators or influencers

    If you’re a creator, collaborating with other creators in the same industry can be a win-win for both parties: Both of you can cross-promote your content in front of new, vetted audiences who will like your content (and potentially follow you).

    There are also TikTok features like a duet or stitch — where you can add your own spin to a popular video. This can be helpful when you want to add to a conversation that’s already a hot topic on TikTok.

    Alice says many of her popular videos were created using stitches.

    @perfectdd

    #stitch with @ashleigh Don’t worry, we’ve got you! No more looking like a tent because of our b!g b00b$. Our clothes have more room by the chest, not everywhere else! Fits up to an M cup. 🍒 👚 fu#fullerbustfashion#midsize#bigchestproblems #fullerbust #icup

    ♬ original sound – PerfectDD

    “Some of our most popular videos lately have been duets or stitches with other women complaining about the exact problems that we’re trying to solve,” she says.

    If you’re a business owner, you can also collaborate with TikTok influencers using influencer marketing and sharing user-generated content.

    • Via influencer marketing, you want to choose relevant creators with a tight-knit, loyal audience to talk about your brand authentically. You can gift them your products with no strings attached or do a paid partnership if you have the budget.
    • Via user-generated content, you can reshare your customers' organic posts and testimonials on your TikTok account. These serve to build trust and help you gain more followers.

    Whether you use duets, stitches, or user-generated content, remember to credit the original creator before reposting (along with asking for permission to repost).

    13. Experiment with video length

    We analyzed over one million posts and found TikTok videos over one minute in length get:

    • 43.2% more reach than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 70.3% more reach than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 95.7% more reach than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    The numbers were similar for average watch time (a crucial ingredient of the TikTok algorithm). TikToks longer than a minute got:

    • 63.8% more watch time than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 175.6% more watch time than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 264.5% more watch time than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While TikTok became famous for short-form video content, videos under 10 seconds are no longer the only way to keep your audience engaged. Instead, create content that focuses on providing value and experiment with various video lengths to find the one that works best for you.

    Engaging content has no ideal length — it all depends on the topic at hand, your video editing chops, and your audience’s preferences.

    14. Don’t buy TikTok followers

    You’ll see loads of companies trying to sell bots as TikTok followers. But taking this shortcut isn’t just against TikTok’s Community Guidelines, it also doesn’t fulfill your larger purpose: building a loyal following.

    In fact, gaining followers this way could hurt your TikTok presence because it harms your personal brand and overall reputation.

    Your actual TikTok followers might put two and two together when they don’t see your engagement and follower count number adding up (or when bots comment generic compliments on all your videos). This will hurt your brand presence immensely in the long run.

    There’s no denying that getting more followers on TikTok is hard work — it requires a lot of patience.

    But buying followers isn’t going to make that any easier. Focusing on creating high-quality content for your target audience — without fussing too much over that follower count — might make it a bit more enjoyable.

    Growing on TikTok isn’t a one-time affair

    TikTok marketing is a whole host of things — increasing your follower count is a small, ongoing part of it.

    What you don’t need in addition to creating content regularly, engaging with your followers, and keeping up with new features (along with algorithmic changes and potential ban fears), is also taking up the admin work of posting everything manually and tracking the results of your efforts.

    Outsource those tasks to Buffer so you can focus on the important things that’ll give you a better ROI on your time. Take it for a free spin today.

    More TikTok resources:

    My TikTok Experiment: How I Grew My Following by More Than 1,000% in 30 Days

    TikTok Has Landed Me $160K in Brand Partnerships and a 6-Figure Book Deal — Here’s How I Did ItHow to Use TikTok Studio: A Handy Tool for Growing on the Platform15 Trending Songs on TikTok in 2025 (+ How to Use Them)

  • I Joined Buffer 3 Days Before The Retreat: Here Are My Retreat Reflections

    I Joined Buffer 3 Days Before The Retreat: Here Are My Retreat Reflections

    What it was like to join a fully remote team like Buffer, and how going on the company retreat so early on helped shape my journey in ways I hadn’t imagined.14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    One of my favorite things about TikTok is that it doesn’t play favorites. Even the newest accounts have a fair shot at reaching thousands (or millions!) of people.

    The idea of a “welcoming” algorithm might feel strange to long-time creators and social media managers, but if there ever was one, it would be TikTok’s. 

    The social media platform is bursting with potential. With over 1.58 billion users spending nearly an hour every day on the app, chances are your audience is already waiting to discover — and follow — you.

    Now, follower count isn’t everything. But it does open doors. It helps you build trust, unlock cool features like the TikTok Shop, and grow a loyal community that vibes with your content.

    In this guide, you’ll learn how to get more followers on TikTok using 14 solid, no-fluff, actionable tips.

    Just real, practical strategies that work. If you prefer watching over reading, we’ve summarized the top five tips for you in video form, too:

    1. Choose a niche — and stick to it

    It’s tempting to throw stuff on the wall and see what sticks — especially on TikTok, where the vibes are more chilled thaon n other social media platforms. But having a niche — even a broad one — has plenty of benefits:

    • It tells the TikTok algorithm what your content is about
    • It helps you filter your content ideas to a specific topic
    • It helps you build authority and trust in your industry
    • It makes you more memorable to TikTok users

    Kirsti Lang, a Senior Content Writer at Buffer, grew her following by over 1,000% in 30 days. One of her core learnings was that a niche (or a handful of connected niches) is immensely valuable for growing a loyal following.

    “If you do find a video you enjoy or find helpful in your FYP, you may tap over to the creator’s profile to see if there are more,” she says. “And if what you find there is a hot mess of all sorts of unrelated things, you’re going to bounce back to the FYP without tapping ‘follow’ real fast.”

    Annie-Mai Hodge, founder of Girl Power Marketing, agrees: “People are wanting and searching for spaces and communities where they belong, where they can relate, and where they feel understood,” she says. “So they’re actively looking for creators who get them, or provide an experience for them like escaping — it’s why #BookTok is so huge.”

    If you feel constricted by having a singular niche, have a broad one that can fit multiple content pillars — quenching your desire for spontaneity and creativity without violating the algorithm’s preference for cohesiveness.

    For example, Kirsti first posted about various topics: her job at Buffer, her love of Taylor Swift, and her fitness routine. But despite one of her Swiftie videos going viral, her watcher-to-follower conversion rate remained low.

    Her other videos about how to land a remote job did much better for that metric, even if they didn’t go viral.

    @itsmekirsti

    Replying to @NikitaJade This is the exact process I would use to find a remote job from outside the U.S. if I was starting from scratch today! I wanted to follow up on my chaotic grwm video yesterday with something a little more structured — this is my step-by-step guide to finding and landing a remote job, particularly in the tech industry. Screenshot my notes at the end of the video! Let me know if you have any questions. 😊 #remotejob #remotework #jobsearch #jobsearchtips #remotejobs #wfh

    ♬ My Frequency – Rickert Ponce

    “The Swifties were tapping over to my profile and didn’t find a Taylor Swift fan account,” she says. “The remote work video netted a very pleasing 70K views, and I earned a huge chunk of new followers — 757, to be exact — and a much healthier conversation rate.”

    Lessons learned: Going viral doesn’t guarantee higher follower counts. You need a niche to establish yourself as an authority on the topic to gain followers and tell TikTok users (and the algorithm) what your TikTok account is about.

    If you’re having too much trouble deciding what your niche will be, shift gears a little bit and think about who you’re creating TikTok videos for. Which brings me to my next point.

    2. Understand your target audience

    Having a solid understanding of who your target audience is and what they’re looking for is the bedrock of getting more followers on all social media platforms, TikTok included.

    CEO of Fashivly, Ashlyn Greer, has grown the brand’s TikTok account to over 100k followers. Her core principle has always been to use TikTok to resonate with her audience by understanding (and catering to) her audience’s struggles. Take her video about sizing discrepancies in the fashion industry — it went viral because it struck a chord.

    @fashivly

    the chokehold these jeans had on us #greenscreen #greenscreenvideo #millennial

    ♬ original sound – fashivly

    “We’ve continued to create inclusive content based on [audience] insights,” she says. “Understanding their pain points has guided our content creation and ensured we stay as inclusive as possible because we know this approach resonates with our audience.”

    Solidifying your niche will lay the groundwork to help you pinpoint the segment of TikTok users you want to reach. The second step is doing your research to figure out your target audience’s pain points and content preferences.

    Audience research tools like SparkToro or AnswerThePublic can help you find your audience’s burning questions. But you can also work on understanding your target audience by spending time on TikTok and conducting a competitor analysis. For example, if you’re a creator focusing on creating healthy vegan recipes:

    • Search for “healthy vegan recipes” on TikTok and see what pops up
    • Analyze the best-performing TikTok videos and creators to understand what topics they’re creating videos on and which are resonating
    • Pay attention to the comments on your fellow creators’ videos to dive even further into your audience’s questions, preferences, and recommendations

    Understanding your target audience is an ongoing endeavor rather than a one-off task. The more you post (and experiment!), the more feedback you get — in comments, direct messages (DMs), and your TikTok analytics.

    3. Write a clear and compelling bio

    Your potential followers on TikTok will likely discover your content in the For You Page (FYP). But they might often navigate to your TikTok profile to learn more about who you are and what you post about.

    If your TikTok bio is empty, you’re leaving valuable space that could work to get you more followers.

    Your bio should tell what content you create — establish your niche and your unique selling point. Instead of making it about you though, focus on your audience and make it about them.

    For example, Parker York Smith’s bio says, “Helping you look good and feel confident,” which is an instant value prop for why you should follow him.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While you’re at it, also ensure that your TikTok profile is up to date — have a clear profile picture and an easy-to-read username. All of the factors in your profile will work together to help build trust and make it tempting to follow you.

    4. Build a content calendar to post consistently

    TikTok, like all other social media platforms, loves consistency. The ideal posting frequency for TikTok is two short-form videos a day. 

    But take that number with a grain of salt. You can adjust this based on your capacity — more important to maintain the quality of your TikTok videos. 

    Kirsti, for example, has seen solid audience growth with two or three videos a month.

    A smart way to increase your posting cadence without burning out is to repurpose your content. If you already have a YouTube channel, for instance, you can chop up some videos from there to post on your TikTok account. You can also shoot b-roll in bulk (hello, content batching) and reuse it for future videos.

    Alice Kim, founder of PerfectDD, used TikTok to generate $25,000 in sales for her business in a month. She found that many of her old videos would resurface to new TikTok users, thanks to the algorithm. Having a consistent branding (alongside regular posting) helped her immensely in this scenario.

    “I’ve found consistency in messaging is more important than consistency of posting,” she says. “This means that any of my videos could be seen by a new potential customer at any time."

    "That’s why I’m unafraid to reiterate my brand promise and message over and over again, so people who are new to my videos always know what PerfectDD is all about.”

    The easiest way to maintain a consistent posting schedule is by creating a content calendar and using a tool like Buffer to automate posting (Buffer also doubles as a content calendar — so you don’t need both!). This way, you can visually spot your content gaps and fill them.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Remember to leave some room in that content calendar for trending content.

    Let’s be clear: Trending content isn’t a magic bullet to increase your TikTok followers. But it can help you become more visible on the For You Page — which can, by extension, help you get more followers on TikTok.

    While creating your content calendar, leave some gaps for trending videos. Or you could treat them as bonus posts! There can be three kinds of trends:

    • TikTok trends: A trend that’s unique to the TikTok app, like challenge videos.
    • Trending songs: You can often find trending songs used behind TikTok videos.
    • Industry-specific trends: Trends related to a specific news or event in your niche.

    If you scroll on TikTok regularly, you’ll automatically start finding these trends on your FYP. Some trends are also tied to a specific period, like the holidays or the fall season. Most trending content will be time-sensitive, so you need to jump on trends before they fade.

    Keep two things in mind before hopping on trends:

    • Your trending videos still need to fit your niche. Don’t participate in a trend if it’s not true to your brand values or can’t be molded for your industry.
    • Balance trending content with evergreen content. Trending posts can provide you with viral moments and boost visibility, but the real gold is the evergreen content that makes people follow you and stick around.

    Alice experienced this herself:

    “Sometimes, trendy TikToks didn’t work because the trend wasn’t authentic enough to me and my brand. The trends that have most benefited my business are the ones I personally had an emotional reaction to,” she said. 

    “I still try the trends when they’re easy and fun for me, but what people really pick up on are the videos in which I’m authentically sharing my experience and talking about my brand.”

    Your TikTok strategy should include a healthy mix of trending and evergreen content. Trending videos might bring in a large TikTok audience to your profile, but evergreen content is what will make them stick around.

    And while you’re creating that content calendar (hopefully using a smart tool like Buffer!), you also want to select the right time to post.

    6. Post at the right time

    There’s no such thing as the right time to start working on your goals. Or meet your soulmate. Or having a sweet treat. But posting on TikTok? Yep, there’s a right time for that one.

    You don’t want to post when your engagement will be low. Or when there’ll be too much competition and your video will drown in the noise. Or when your audience is fast asleep.

    The goal is to post when video discoverability is at an all-time high so you get more engagement. Based on our analysis of one million TikTok posts, that time is between 4-5 p.m. mid-week.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Posting at the right time might sound like a small, insignificant thing. And it is a relatively small piece of the puzzle of how to get more followers on TikTok. But it can help your TikTok content get that initial boost it needs to get in front of the right audience at the perfect time.

    7. Focus on scroll-stopping hooks

    Short-form video content (whether it’s TikTok videos, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts) thrives when the first few seconds of your video can quickly grab attention.

    Take this video by Erin McGoff: The “I got the job!” phrase quickly piques interest and curiosity. The following line, “Ugh, that salary is way too low,” holds it. You want to know what the character would do next.

    @erinmcgoff

    🔬 According to Forbes, people who negotiate their salary (especially their first job!) make significantly more money throughout their life. 🇺🇸 In the U.S., negotiating your salary is common etiquette! Companies expect you to counter the first offer. The first offer is rarely their best offer. If it is, they’ll usually tell you that. Yet, 55% of candidates don’t negotiate. 😭 BUT, out of those who do? 85% get some or ALL of what they asked for. 🤑 🤷🏼‍♀️ Negotiating doesn’t have to be confrontational, awkward, or uncomfortable. If you use the right words, tone, and approach, you’ll have the company saying “you’ve got a deal!” in no time. 🫶🏼 I’m SUPER passionate about helping people advocate for themselves and make more money. 📝 That’s why I wrote a complete salary negotiation guide and sell it for $49.99! …jk, IT’S FREE! Link in bio 🙂 You got this 👏 money salary negotiation careeradvice

    ♬ original sound – AdviceWithErin✨ – AdviceWithErin✨

    Your hook can be the audio, the visual, the text on the screen, or all three combined. The goal is to stop the scroll. Think: What would my audience see or hear and immediately stop in their tracks?

    Use copywriting formulas and closely observe the hooks that make you want to watch more. Slowly but surely, you’ll learn to craft impeccable hooks.

    Hooks might not seem like a TikTok strategy for follower growth, but a strong hook is what gets your foot in the door. Once someone is hooked (pun intended) to your TikTok content, they’ll stick around till the end to see it through. And if they like what they see, they’ll tap the follow button to see more of it.

    💡
    Note: It’s important to avoid clickbait in your hooks while creating TikTok content. They might reel TikTok users in, but they won’t keep viewers engaged till the end. Genuine engagement will only come from hooks that are well-crafted and true.

    8. End your videos with a strong call-to-action

    Here’s something I learned in therapy that applies to TikTok marketing, too (the parallels of life remain unparalleled, amirite?): You gotta ask for what you need.

    Maybe your TikTok videos are epic, but are you asking viewers to follow you? It could be something as simple as “Follow me for more [your niche] tips!”

    Another thing you could do is tease what you’re going to post about in the future that might also interest your potential TikTok followers. For example, Kallie Baker ends with a call-to-action of “Tomorrow, I’ll teach you [this new thing],” in one of her videos.

    @.kalliedanielle

    When you have to tackle the entire house, it’s best to have a step by step plan in order to get it done. Cleaning your house in 8 Steps: 1. Start one load of laundry 2. Trash 3. Two laundry baskets(one for dirty laundry one for clutter) 4. Put everything away and make beds 5. Dishes 6. Dusting and glass 7. Bathrooms 8. Sweep/vacuum and mop #cleanhouse #cleaninghacks #cleaningmotivation #cleaningroutine

    ♬ original sound – .kalliedanielle

    If you’ve watched her video till the end, she’s already succeeded in making you see the value in her content. The call to action gives you a great reason to follow (‘I can learn this too if I follow Kallie!’), too.

    You don’t need to overcomplicate it. If you can’t say the ‘follow me’ using a voiceover because you’re using music, use overlay text somewhere at the bottom or top of your video to nudge the same behavior and get more followers on TikTok.

    9. Start a content series

    A content series is when you create episodic content on a specific topic. It has the binge-able value that keeps your audience returning for more. Plus, a series makes it easier for you to come up with new video ideas.

    Tiffany Yu — who landed $160k in brand partnerships and a book deal using her TikTok account — says her anti-ableism series put her on the map.

    @imtiffanyyu

    My disability does stop me from doing certain things and that’s ok. #AntiAbleism #Disability #DisabilityPride #DisabilityAwareness #TikTokTaughtMe #TikTokPartner

    ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

    “Since launching it, I was named to the inaugural API TikTok Trailblazers list alongside creators like Bella Poarch, and a literary agent who saw it reached out about writing a book,” she said. “The series has nearly 300 posts and over 5 million views.”

    She also explains why she thinks the series helped her with follower growth: “For one, it helps new followers engage more deeply in my content,” she said. “When someone discovers a video and sees it’s ‘part 273,’ they’ll likely be curious to explore other content from the series.”

    Annie-Mai also believes in the power of content series: “Audiences are craving something to latch onto, something that feels familiar, consistent and worth returning to,” she says. “That’s why series content works so well.”

    A series can also help you stay consistent because you can create content on a broad topic without starting from scratch each time. Choose a topic that’s broad enough to require multiple videos and one that your audience is interested in.

    10. Use relevant hashtags and SEO terms

    The TikTok algorithm uses hashtags and keywords within your post to understand what your post is about and put it in front of people who like watching similar videos. SEO also comes into the picture because more and more people are using the TikTok app as a search engine.

    This is why it’s important to use the right hashtags and SEO terms. Use three to five relevant hashtags with each post alongside naturally-woven keywords your audience might be searching for.

    Follow this evergreen TikTok checklist each time before posting:

    • Did your caption contain relevant keywords?
    • Have you included 3-5 hashtags?
    • Did you film within TikTok or use their affiliated app, CapCut?
    • Have you included a TikTok audio?
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025
    💡
    Note: Don’t add irrelevant keywords or hashtags in your TikTok posts. That can hurt more than it would help. 

    According to TikTok’s Creator Academy: “Avoid including irrelevant or misleading keywords based solely on popularity — irrelevant text stacking will actually negatively affect your video traffic,” they say.

    “If you want your video to do well in search, describe your video content accurately and objectively.”

    11. Engage with your community

    Someone who commented on your video might not follow you. Engaging with them by responding to their comment is an easy way to make them return to your video and become more memorable — leading to an eventual follow.

    The TikTok algorithm — like many other platforms — pushes posts with more engagement at the frontline. If you regularly create engaging content that makes people comment and you reply back, you play in favor of the TikTok game.

    But it’s not just about playing the game; it’s also the foundation of building a strong community: Social media is a two-way street. Instead of posting and ghosting, engage with your followers and learn from their feedback.

    Tiffany focused on going the extra mile and giving video replies to her audience:

    @imtiffanyyu

    Reply to @toguboguroblox – how I drive #WelcomeWeek #driverslicense #driversed #brachialplexusinjury #disability #disabilitytiktok #onehand #howidrive

    ♬ Sunset Lover – Petit Biscuit

    “Early on in growing my channel, I not only made sure to try to respond to most of the comments, but I would also respond to questions with video replies,” she says.

    “Not only does that person get notified that you replied, but it also signals to your audience that you are reading the comments and willing to engage with them, making them more excited to stick around.”

    Gaining followers is not in a silo, after all. You don’t want an inflated follower count alone, you want a loyal and engaged community. And responding to every comment you can is the first step to make your followers feel valued and heard.

    12. Collaborate with fellow creators or influencers

    If you’re a creator, collaborating with other creators in the same industry can be a win-win for both parties: Both of you can cross-promote your content in front of new, vetted audiences who will like your content (and potentially follow you).

    There are also TikTok features like a duet or stitch — where you can add your own spin to a popular video. This can be helpful when you want to add to a conversation that’s already a hot topic on TikTok.

    Alice says many of her popular videos were created using stitches.

    @perfectdd

    #stitch with @ashleigh Don’t worry, we’ve got you! No more looking like a tent because of our b!g b00b$. Our clothes have more room by the chest, not everywhere else! Fits up to an M cup. 🍒 👚 fu#fullerbustfashion#midsize#bigchestproblems #fullerbust #icup

    ♬ original sound – PerfectDD

    “Some of our most popular videos lately have been duets or stitches with other women complaining about the exact problems that we’re trying to solve,” she says.

    If you’re a business owner, you can also collaborate with TikTok influencers using influencer marketing and sharing user-generated content.

    • Via influencer marketing, you want to choose relevant creators with a tight-knit, loyal audience to talk about your brand authentically. You can gift them your products with no strings attached or do a paid partnership if you have the budget.
    • Via user-generated content, you can reshare your customers' organic posts and testimonials on your TikTok account. These serve to build trust and help you gain more followers.

    Whether you use duets, stitches, or user-generated content, remember to credit the original creator before reposting (along with asking for permission to repost).

    13. Experiment with video length

    We analyzed over one million posts and found TikTok videos over one minute in length get:

    • 43.2% more reach than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 70.3% more reach than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 95.7% more reach than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    The numbers were similar for average watch time (a crucial ingredient of the TikTok algorithm). TikToks longer than a minute got:

    • 63.8% more watch time than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 175.6% more watch time than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 264.5% more watch time than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While TikTok became famous for short-form video content, videos under 10 seconds are no longer the only way to keep your audience engaged. Instead, create content that focuses on providing value and experiment with various video lengths to find the one that works best for you.

    Engaging content has no ideal length — it all depends on the topic at hand, your video editing chops, and your audience’s preferences.

    14. Don’t buy TikTok followers

    You’ll see loads of companies trying to sell bots as TikTok followers. But taking this shortcut isn’t just against TikTok’s Community Guidelines, it also doesn’t fulfill your larger purpose: building a loyal following.

    In fact, gaining followers this way could hurt your TikTok presence because it harms your personal brand and overall reputation.

    Your actual TikTok followers might put two and two together when they don’t see your engagement and follower count number adding up (or when bots comment generic compliments on all your videos). This will hurt your brand presence immensely in the long run.

    There’s no denying that getting more followers on TikTok is hard work — it requires a lot of patience.

    But buying followers isn’t going to make that any easier. Focusing on creating high-quality content for your target audience — without fussing too much over that follower count — might make it a bit more enjoyable.

    Growing on TikTok isn’t a one-time affair

    TikTok marketing is a whole host of things — increasing your follower count is a small, ongoing part of it.

    What you don’t need in addition to creating content regularly, engaging with your followers, and keeping up with new features (along with algorithmic changes and potential ban fears), is also taking up the admin work of posting everything manually and tracking the results of your efforts.

    Outsource those tasks to Buffer so you can focus on the important things that’ll give you a better ROI on your time. Take it for a free spin today.

    More TikTok resources:

    My TikTok Experiment: How I Grew My Following by More Than 1,000% in 30 Days

    TikTok Has Landed Me $160K in Brand Partnerships and a 6-Figure Book Deal — Here’s How I Did ItHow to Use TikTok Studio: A Handy Tool for Growing on the Platform15 Trending Songs on TikTok in 2025 (+ How to Use Them)

  • 30+ Best Podcasts for Creators, Marketers, and Social Media Managers in 2025

    30+ Best Podcasts for Creators, Marketers, and Social Media Managers in 2025

    Check out the best podcasts for creators, marketers, small business owners and anyone looking to up their social media.14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    One of my favorite things about TikTok is that it doesn’t play favorites. Even the newest accounts have a fair shot at reaching thousands (or millions!) of people.

    The idea of a “welcoming” algorithm might feel strange to long-time creators and social media managers, but if there ever was one, it would be TikTok’s. 

    The social media platform is bursting with potential. With over 1.58 billion users spending nearly an hour every day on the app, chances are your audience is already waiting to discover — and follow — you.

    Now, follower count isn’t everything. But it does open doors. It helps you build trust, unlock cool features like the TikTok Shop, and grow a loyal community that vibes with your content.

    In this guide, you’ll learn how to get more followers on TikTok using 14 solid, no-fluff, actionable tips.

    Just real, practical strategies that work. If you prefer watching over reading, we’ve summarized the top five tips for you in video form, too:

    1. Choose a niche — and stick to it

    It’s tempting to throw stuff on the wall and see what sticks — especially on TikTok, where the vibes are more chilled thaon n other social media platforms. But having a niche — even a broad one — has plenty of benefits:

    • It tells the TikTok algorithm what your content is about
    • It helps you filter your content ideas to a specific topic
    • It helps you build authority and trust in your industry
    • It makes you more memorable to TikTok users

    Kirsti Lang, a Senior Content Writer at Buffer, grew her following by over 1,000% in 30 days. One of her core learnings was that a niche (or a handful of connected niches) is immensely valuable for growing a loyal following.

    “If you do find a video you enjoy or find helpful in your FYP, you may tap over to the creator’s profile to see if there are more,” she says. “And if what you find there is a hot mess of all sorts of unrelated things, you’re going to bounce back to the FYP without tapping ‘follow’ real fast.”

    Annie-Mai Hodge, founder of Girl Power Marketing, agrees: “People are wanting and searching for spaces and communities where they belong, where they can relate, and where they feel understood,” she says. “So they’re actively looking for creators who get them, or provide an experience for them like escaping — it’s why #BookTok is so huge.”

    If you feel constricted by having a singular niche, have a broad one that can fit multiple content pillars — quenching your desire for spontaneity and creativity without violating the algorithm’s preference for cohesiveness.

    For example, Kirsti first posted about various topics: her job at Buffer, her love of Taylor Swift, and her fitness routine. But despite one of her Swiftie videos going viral, her watcher-to-follower conversion rate remained low.

    Her other videos about how to land a remote job did much better for that metric, even if they didn’t go viral.

    @itsmekirsti

    Replying to @NikitaJade This is the exact process I would use to find a remote job from outside the U.S. if I was starting from scratch today! I wanted to follow up on my chaotic grwm video yesterday with something a little more structured — this is my step-by-step guide to finding and landing a remote job, particularly in the tech industry. Screenshot my notes at the end of the video! Let me know if you have any questions. 😊 #remotejob #remotework #jobsearch #jobsearchtips #remotejobs #wfh

    ♬ My Frequency – Rickert Ponce

    “The Swifties were tapping over to my profile and didn’t find a Taylor Swift fan account,” she says. “The remote work video netted a very pleasing 70K views, and I earned a huge chunk of new followers — 757, to be exact — and a much healthier conversation rate.”

    Lessons learned: Going viral doesn’t guarantee higher follower counts. You need a niche to establish yourself as an authority on the topic to gain followers and tell TikTok users (and the algorithm) what your TikTok account is about.

    If you’re having too much trouble deciding what your niche will be, shift gears a little bit and think about who you’re creating TikTok videos for. Which brings me to my next point.

    2. Understand your target audience

    Having a solid understanding of who your target audience is and what they’re looking for is the bedrock of getting more followers on all social media platforms, TikTok included.

    CEO of Fashivly, Ashlyn Greer, has grown the brand’s TikTok account to over 100k followers. Her core principle has always been to use TikTok to resonate with her audience by understanding (and catering to) her audience’s struggles. Take her video about sizing discrepancies in the fashion industry — it went viral because it struck a chord.

    @fashivly

    the chokehold these jeans had on us #greenscreen #greenscreenvideo #millennial

    ♬ original sound – fashivly

    “We’ve continued to create inclusive content based on [audience] insights,” she says. “Understanding their pain points has guided our content creation and ensured we stay as inclusive as possible because we know this approach resonates with our audience.”

    Solidifying your niche will lay the groundwork to help you pinpoint the segment of TikTok users you want to reach. The second step is doing your research to figure out your target audience’s pain points and content preferences.

    Audience research tools like SparkToro or AnswerThePublic can help you find your audience’s burning questions. But you can also work on understanding your target audience by spending time on TikTok and conducting a competitor analysis. For example, if you’re a creator focusing on creating healthy vegan recipes:

    • Search for “healthy vegan recipes” on TikTok and see what pops up
    • Analyze the best-performing TikTok videos and creators to understand what topics they’re creating videos on and which are resonating
    • Pay attention to the comments on your fellow creators’ videos to dive even further into your audience’s questions, preferences, and recommendations

    Understanding your target audience is an ongoing endeavor rather than a one-off task. The more you post (and experiment!), the more feedback you get — in comments, direct messages (DMs), and your TikTok analytics.

    3. Write a clear and compelling bio

    Your potential followers on TikTok will likely discover your content in the For You Page (FYP). But they might often navigate to your TikTok profile to learn more about who you are and what you post about.

    If your TikTok bio is empty, you’re leaving valuable space that could work to get you more followers.

    Your bio should tell what content you create — establish your niche and your unique selling point. Instead of making it about you though, focus on your audience and make it about them.

    For example, Parker York Smith’s bio says, “Helping you look good and feel confident,” which is an instant value prop for why you should follow him.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While you’re at it, also ensure that your TikTok profile is up to date — have a clear profile picture and an easy-to-read username. All of the factors in your profile will work together to help build trust and make it tempting to follow you.

    4. Build a content calendar to post consistently

    TikTok, like all other social media platforms, loves consistency. The ideal posting frequency for TikTok is two short-form videos a day. 

    But take that number with a grain of salt. You can adjust this based on your capacity — more important to maintain the quality of your TikTok videos. 

    Kirsti, for example, has seen solid audience growth with two or three videos a month.

    A smart way to increase your posting cadence without burning out is to repurpose your content. If you already have a YouTube channel, for instance, you can chop up some videos from there to post on your TikTok account. You can also shoot b-roll in bulk (hello, content batching) and reuse it for future videos.

    Alice Kim, founder of PerfectDD, used TikTok to generate $25,000 in sales for her business in a month. She found that many of her old videos would resurface to new TikTok users, thanks to the algorithm. Having a consistent branding (alongside regular posting) helped her immensely in this scenario.

    “I’ve found consistency in messaging is more important than consistency of posting,” she says. “This means that any of my videos could be seen by a new potential customer at any time."

    "That’s why I’m unafraid to reiterate my brand promise and message over and over again, so people who are new to my videos always know what PerfectDD is all about.”

    The easiest way to maintain a consistent posting schedule is by creating a content calendar and using a tool like Buffer to automate posting (Buffer also doubles as a content calendar — so you don’t need both!). This way, you can visually spot your content gaps and fill them.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Remember to leave some room in that content calendar for trending content.

    Let’s be clear: Trending content isn’t a magic bullet to increase your TikTok followers. But it can help you become more visible on the For You Page — which can, by extension, help you get more followers on TikTok.

    While creating your content calendar, leave some gaps for trending videos. Or you could treat them as bonus posts! There can be three kinds of trends:

    • TikTok trends: A trend that’s unique to the TikTok app, like challenge videos.
    • Trending songs: You can often find trending songs used behind TikTok videos.
    • Industry-specific trends: Trends related to a specific news or event in your niche.

    If you scroll on TikTok regularly, you’ll automatically start finding these trends on your FYP. Some trends are also tied to a specific period, like the holidays or the fall season. Most trending content will be time-sensitive, so you need to jump on trends before they fade.

    Keep two things in mind before hopping on trends:

    • Your trending videos still need to fit your niche. Don’t participate in a trend if it’s not true to your brand values or can’t be molded for your industry.
    • Balance trending content with evergreen content. Trending posts can provide you with viral moments and boost visibility, but the real gold is the evergreen content that makes people follow you and stick around.

    Alice experienced this herself:

    “Sometimes, trendy TikToks didn’t work because the trend wasn’t authentic enough to me and my brand. The trends that have most benefited my business are the ones I personally had an emotional reaction to,” she said. 

    “I still try the trends when they’re easy and fun for me, but what people really pick up on are the videos in which I’m authentically sharing my experience and talking about my brand.”

    Your TikTok strategy should include a healthy mix of trending and evergreen content. Trending videos might bring in a large TikTok audience to your profile, but evergreen content is what will make them stick around.

    And while you’re creating that content calendar (hopefully using a smart tool like Buffer!), you also want to select the right time to post.

    6. Post at the right time

    There’s no such thing as the right time to start working on your goals. Or meet your soulmate. Or having a sweet treat. But posting on TikTok? Yep, there’s a right time for that one.

    You don’t want to post when your engagement will be low. Or when there’ll be too much competition and your video will drown in the noise. Or when your audience is fast asleep.

    The goal is to post when video discoverability is at an all-time high so you get more engagement. Based on our analysis of one million TikTok posts, that time is between 4-5 p.m. mid-week.

    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    Posting at the right time might sound like a small, insignificant thing. And it is a relatively small piece of the puzzle of how to get more followers on TikTok. But it can help your TikTok content get that initial boost it needs to get in front of the right audience at the perfect time.

    7. Focus on scroll-stopping hooks

    Short-form video content (whether it’s TikTok videos, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts) thrives when the first few seconds of your video can quickly grab attention.

    Take this video by Erin McGoff: The “I got the job!” phrase quickly piques interest and curiosity. The following line, “Ugh, that salary is way too low,” holds it. You want to know what the character would do next.

    @erinmcgoff

    🔬 According to Forbes, people who negotiate their salary (especially their first job!) make significantly more money throughout their life. 🇺🇸 In the U.S., negotiating your salary is common etiquette! Companies expect you to counter the first offer. The first offer is rarely their best offer. If it is, they’ll usually tell you that. Yet, 55% of candidates don’t negotiate. 😭 BUT, out of those who do? 85% get some or ALL of what they asked for. 🤑 🤷🏼‍♀️ Negotiating doesn’t have to be confrontational, awkward, or uncomfortable. If you use the right words, tone, and approach, you’ll have the company saying “you’ve got a deal!” in no time. 🫶🏼 I’m SUPER passionate about helping people advocate for themselves and make more money. 📝 That’s why I wrote a complete salary negotiation guide and sell it for $49.99! …jk, IT’S FREE! Link in bio 🙂 You got this 👏 money salary negotiation careeradvice

    ♬ original sound – AdviceWithErin✨ – AdviceWithErin✨

    Your hook can be the audio, the visual, the text on the screen, or all three combined. The goal is to stop the scroll. Think: What would my audience see or hear and immediately stop in their tracks?

    Use copywriting formulas and closely observe the hooks that make you want to watch more. Slowly but surely, you’ll learn to craft impeccable hooks.

    Hooks might not seem like a TikTok strategy for follower growth, but a strong hook is what gets your foot in the door. Once someone is hooked (pun intended) to your TikTok content, they’ll stick around till the end to see it through. And if they like what they see, they’ll tap the follow button to see more of it.

    💡
    Note: It’s important to avoid clickbait in your hooks while creating TikTok content. They might reel TikTok users in, but they won’t keep viewers engaged till the end. Genuine engagement will only come from hooks that are well-crafted and true.

    8. End your videos with a strong call-to-action

    Here’s something I learned in therapy that applies to TikTok marketing, too (the parallels of life remain unparalleled, amirite?): You gotta ask for what you need.

    Maybe your TikTok videos are epic, but are you asking viewers to follow you? It could be something as simple as “Follow me for more [your niche] tips!”

    Another thing you could do is tease what you’re going to post about in the future that might also interest your potential TikTok followers. For example, Kallie Baker ends with a call-to-action of “Tomorrow, I’ll teach you [this new thing],” in one of her videos.

    @.kalliedanielle

    When you have to tackle the entire house, it’s best to have a step by step plan in order to get it done. Cleaning your house in 8 Steps: 1. Start one load of laundry 2. Trash 3. Two laundry baskets(one for dirty laundry one for clutter) 4. Put everything away and make beds 5. Dishes 6. Dusting and glass 7. Bathrooms 8. Sweep/vacuum and mop #cleanhouse #cleaninghacks #cleaningmotivation #cleaningroutine

    ♬ original sound – .kalliedanielle

    If you’ve watched her video till the end, she’s already succeeded in making you see the value in her content. The call to action gives you a great reason to follow (‘I can learn this too if I follow Kallie!’), too.

    You don’t need to overcomplicate it. If you can’t say the ‘follow me’ using a voiceover because you’re using music, use overlay text somewhere at the bottom or top of your video to nudge the same behavior and get more followers on TikTok.

    9. Start a content series

    A content series is when you create episodic content on a specific topic. It has the binge-able value that keeps your audience returning for more. Plus, a series makes it easier for you to come up with new video ideas.

    Tiffany Yu — who landed $160k in brand partnerships and a book deal using her TikTok account — says her anti-ableism series put her on the map.

    @imtiffanyyu

    My disability does stop me from doing certain things and that’s ok. #AntiAbleism #Disability #DisabilityPride #DisabilityAwareness #TikTokTaughtMe #TikTokPartner

    ♬ Aesthetic – Tollan Kim

    “Since launching it, I was named to the inaugural API TikTok Trailblazers list alongside creators like Bella Poarch, and a literary agent who saw it reached out about writing a book,” she said. “The series has nearly 300 posts and over 5 million views.”

    She also explains why she thinks the series helped her with follower growth: “For one, it helps new followers engage more deeply in my content,” she said. “When someone discovers a video and sees it’s ‘part 273,’ they’ll likely be curious to explore other content from the series.”

    Annie-Mai also believes in the power of content series: “Audiences are craving something to latch onto, something that feels familiar, consistent and worth returning to,” she says. “That’s why series content works so well.”

    A series can also help you stay consistent because you can create content on a broad topic without starting from scratch each time. Choose a topic that’s broad enough to require multiple videos and one that your audience is interested in.

    10. Use relevant hashtags and SEO terms

    The TikTok algorithm uses hashtags and keywords within your post to understand what your post is about and put it in front of people who like watching similar videos. SEO also comes into the picture because more and more people are using the TikTok app as a search engine.

    This is why it’s important to use the right hashtags and SEO terms. Use three to five relevant hashtags with each post alongside naturally-woven keywords your audience might be searching for.

    Follow this evergreen TikTok checklist each time before posting:

    • Did your caption contain relevant keywords?
    • Have you included 3-5 hashtags?
    • Did you film within TikTok or use their affiliated app, CapCut?
    • Have you included a TikTok audio?
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025
    💡
    Note: Don’t add irrelevant keywords or hashtags in your TikTok posts. That can hurt more than it would help. 

    According to TikTok’s Creator Academy: “Avoid including irrelevant or misleading keywords based solely on popularity — irrelevant text stacking will actually negatively affect your video traffic,” they say.

    “If you want your video to do well in search, describe your video content accurately and objectively.”

    11. Engage with your community

    Someone who commented on your video might not follow you. Engaging with them by responding to their comment is an easy way to make them return to your video and become more memorable — leading to an eventual follow.

    The TikTok algorithm — like many other platforms — pushes posts with more engagement at the frontline. If you regularly create engaging content that makes people comment and you reply back, you play in favor of the TikTok game.

    But it’s not just about playing the game; it’s also the foundation of building a strong community: Social media is a two-way street. Instead of posting and ghosting, engage with your followers and learn from their feedback.

    Tiffany focused on going the extra mile and giving video replies to her audience:

    @imtiffanyyu

    Reply to @toguboguroblox – how I drive #WelcomeWeek #driverslicense #driversed #brachialplexusinjury #disability #disabilitytiktok #onehand #howidrive

    ♬ Sunset Lover – Petit Biscuit

    “Early on in growing my channel, I not only made sure to try to respond to most of the comments, but I would also respond to questions with video replies,” she says.

    “Not only does that person get notified that you replied, but it also signals to your audience that you are reading the comments and willing to engage with them, making them more excited to stick around.”

    Gaining followers is not in a silo, after all. You don’t want an inflated follower count alone, you want a loyal and engaged community. And responding to every comment you can is the first step to make your followers feel valued and heard.

    12. Collaborate with fellow creators or influencers

    If you’re a creator, collaborating with other creators in the same industry can be a win-win for both parties: Both of you can cross-promote your content in front of new, vetted audiences who will like your content (and potentially follow you).

    There are also TikTok features like a duet or stitch — where you can add your own spin to a popular video. This can be helpful when you want to add to a conversation that’s already a hot topic on TikTok.

    Alice says many of her popular videos were created using stitches.

    @perfectdd

    #stitch with @ashleigh Don’t worry, we’ve got you! No more looking like a tent because of our b!g b00b$. Our clothes have more room by the chest, not everywhere else! Fits up to an M cup. 🍒 👚 fu#fullerbustfashion#midsize#bigchestproblems #fullerbust #icup

    ♬ original sound – PerfectDD

    “Some of our most popular videos lately have been duets or stitches with other women complaining about the exact problems that we’re trying to solve,” she says.

    If you’re a business owner, you can also collaborate with TikTok influencers using influencer marketing and sharing user-generated content.

    • Via influencer marketing, you want to choose relevant creators with a tight-knit, loyal audience to talk about your brand authentically. You can gift them your products with no strings attached or do a paid partnership if you have the budget.
    • Via user-generated content, you can reshare your customers' organic posts and testimonials on your TikTok account. These serve to build trust and help you gain more followers.

    Whether you use duets, stitches, or user-generated content, remember to credit the original creator before reposting (along with asking for permission to repost).

    13. Experiment with video length

    We analyzed over one million posts and found TikTok videos over one minute in length get:

    • 43.2% more reach than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 70.3% more reach than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 95.7% more reach than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    The numbers were similar for average watch time (a crucial ingredient of the TikTok algorithm). TikToks longer than a minute got:

    • 63.8% more watch time than videos in the 30-60 second range
    • 175.6% more watch time than videos in the 10-30 second range
    • 264.5% more watch time than videos in the 5-10 second range
    14 Ways to Get More Followers on TikTok in 2025

    While TikTok became famous for short-form video content, videos under 10 seconds are no longer the only way to keep your audience engaged. Instead, create content that focuses on providing value and experiment with various video lengths to find the one that works best for you.

    Engaging content has no ideal length — it all depends on the topic at hand, your video editing chops, and your audience’s preferences.

    14. Don’t buy TikTok followers

    You’ll see loads of companies trying to sell bots as TikTok followers. But taking this shortcut isn’t just against TikTok’s Community Guidelines, it also doesn’t fulfill your larger purpose: building a loyal following.

    In fact, gaining followers this way could hurt your TikTok presence because it harms your personal brand and overall reputation.

    Your actual TikTok followers might put two and two together when they don’t see your engagement and follower count number adding up (or when bots comment generic compliments on all your videos). This will hurt your brand presence immensely in the long run.

    There’s no denying that getting more followers on TikTok is hard work — it requires a lot of patience.

    But buying followers isn’t going to make that any easier. Focusing on creating high-quality content for your target audience — without fussing too much over that follower count — might make it a bit more enjoyable.

    Growing on TikTok isn’t a one-time affair

    TikTok marketing is a whole host of things — increasing your follower count is a small, ongoing part of it.

    What you don’t need in addition to creating content regularly, engaging with your followers, and keeping up with new features (along with algorithmic changes and potential ban fears), is also taking up the admin work of posting everything manually and tracking the results of your efforts.

    Outsource those tasks to Buffer so you can focus on the important things that’ll give you a better ROI on your time. Take it for a free spin today.

    More TikTok resources:

    My TikTok Experiment: How I Grew My Following by More Than 1,000% in 30 Days

    TikTok Has Landed Me $160K in Brand Partnerships and a 6-Figure Book Deal — Here’s How I Did ItHow to Use TikTok Studio: A Handy Tool for Growing on the Platform15 Trending Songs on TikTok in 2025 (+ How to Use Them)