Passion vs Strategy: Advice on Balancing Both for TikTok Creators

With more than one billion active users worldwide, TikTok has become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world. You only need to open TikTok and start scrolling to see why: it’s as if the app (or more specifically the algorithm), can read your mind. Before you have had time to even blink you will start to see videos and creators that mirror your interests and opinions no matter how niche or left-field. The more you scroll, the more closely aligned with your core it gets. 

Another reason for TikTok’s success is the relatability of its creators. Every platform comes with a mix of content, but at the more authentic end of the TikTok content spectrum, creators aren’t afraid of real talk, raw opinions, and showing a level of honesty about themselves and their lives that goes beyond the polish of other visual social platforms.  

At a time when Generation Z especially are demanding more honesty from the media they consume (BBC), authentic content has become a revered asset for marketers, which has elevated authentic TikTok creators into highly valuable connections for brands. 

So let’s get into what it takes to create authentic content on TikTok and how you can create captivating content that resonates with your audience and catches the attention of brands.

Passionate Creators vs. Strategic Creators

The difference between passionate and strategic creators is that passionate creators are focused on creating content that they genuinely enjoy and that resonates with their audience. 

Strategic creators on the other hand have a business mind-set, are focused on using their content to sell products or build a following to reach growth. While both approaches have their place on TikTok, it's important to strike a balance between being passionate and strategic - and finding a way to remain authentic with both approaches.

Aiming for 80/20 Ratio

80% of your content should be focused on genuine content creation, while 20% should be focused on promoting your business or products.

Tips for Creating Passionate Content on TikTok

Creating passionate (authentic) content on TikTok requires staying true to yourself and your values. Avoid the temptation to follow trends blindly and instead focus on creating content that is unique to you and your niche. Here are some tips for creating authentic content:

• Tell stories: Use your videos to share your personal experiences, insights, and perspectives on topics related to your niche.

• Share behind-the-scenes glimpses: Give your audience a peek into your creative process, your workspace, or your day-to-day life.

• Provide value: Share tips, advice, or tutorials related to your niche.

• Experiment with different formats: TikTok offers a range of video formats, from short clips to longer-form content. Experiment with different formats to see what works best for your audience.

• Engage with your audience: Respond to comments, ask for feedback, and collaborate with other creators to build a community around your content.

Tracking Analytics and Adapting to Change

To create content that resonates with your audience, it's important to track your analytics and adapt to changes in the TikTok algorithm. Here are some tips for tracking your analytics:

• Use TikTok's built-in analytics tools to track engagement, reach, and follower growth.

• Monitor trending topics and hashtags related to your niche.

• Pay attention to what's working and what's not working with your content, and adjust your strategy accordingly.

• Stay up to date with changes in the TikTok algorithm, which can impact your reach and engagement.

Posting passionate genuine content is always a great way to start building a following on TikTok, as it helps to establish trust with your audience and can lead to greater engagement and sharing.

However, at some point, you will want to start thinking strategically about the content and approach to TikTok. This is especially true if you are looking to grow your following or monetize content.

There's no set timeline for when you should start thinking strategically, as it can depend on a variety of factors, including your goals, audience, and niche. However, some good indicators that it may be time to start thinking strategically include:

• Consistently posting quality content that resonates with your audience

• Seeing engagement and growth on your account

• Receiving requests for brand partnerships or sponsored content opportunities

• Wanting to monetize your content or turn your TikTok presence into a career

When these indicators are present, it may be time to start thinking strategically about your content and approach to TikTok. This could involve setting specific goals for your account, researching trends and hashtags in your niche, and experimenting with different content formats and styles to see what resonates best with your audience.

But remember, the key to success is staying true to yourself and your values, and creating content that you genuinely enjoy.

Become a creator 👇