We’ve previously spoken about the benefits of BookTok for forming community but today we’re going into more detail about exactly how the platform works, what content you should be posting and how it will help you grow as an author.
TikTok is definitely worth investing time into as an author as it is probably the best social media for connecting with readers.
Why is TikTok an important platform for authors?
Organic Reach:
TikTok is one of the best platforms for organic reach as it’s easy to find readers and other authors who might be genuinely interested in the work you’re producing.
It’s a great platform for discovering and engaging with readers.
Content:
Stitching:
Using this feature you can take a clip from someone else’s video and then record your own response or reaction to the clip.
Authors can use this to ask questions which readers can answer by taking a clip of their video and answering it with their own, or vice versa.
Duetting:
This is similar to stitching but lets you record yourself reacting to someone’s video in real time - perfect for reaction videos!
Follow Trends:
Using a popular sound on TikTok is an easier way to get your content viewed by people who aren’t already following you or engaging with your content.
However, don’t chase trends too frequently as it’ll come across less sincere and organic.
Book Covers:
Everyone loves a beautiful book cover and that’s never been more true than on BookTok! Make sure to include it in your videos as it could increase your engagement.
Book Recommendations:
This is a common type of content on BookTok and easy to create. Select some books you’ve enjoyed reading, and share a review and recommendation.
Tips:
Engage with other BookTokers
Scroll through your recommendations
Engage with content that’s relevant to you
Consistency is key
To grow your audience you need to be posting frequently and regularly as the TikTok algorithm will reward you for it.
Be authentic
TikTok is one of the closest forms of interaction you might have with your community and followers tend to be able to sense if you’re being honest with them or not.
Hook viewers quickly
TikTok is a short form video platform and people will scroll by your videos unless you grab their attention in the first second or two.
Get straight to your point and draw in your audience.
Use Hashtags to your advantage
Use between 3 and 5 per video
Make sure to include a range of popular and niche hashtags to broaden your audience whilst also finding followers from your community.
Don’t just promote
Promotional content is great but can get old pretty quickly and will have your followers questioning why they have decided to follow your account.
Keep your content focused on books and writing but make sure to mix it up.
Comments