Making a Viral TikTok Ad from Scratch

1. Grab Attention in the First 3 Seconds

TikTok users decide within seconds whether to keep watching. So, start with something visually surprising, emotionally captivating, or an intriguing question. Avoid lengthy intros or slow build-ups.

2. Make It Short and Snappy

TikTok thrives on fast, engaging content. Cut out any slow or unnecessary scenes, and keep the pace quick. It's best to keep your video under 15 seconds to hold attention and boost retention.

3. Align with TikTok Trends

TikTok users love content that feels current and culturally relevant. So, jump on those viral sounds, challenges, or effects for your ad. If there’s a hot dance or meme going around, find a way to tie it to your product.

And pick your music carefully—it's a huge part of the TikTok experience and often drives virality.

4. Showcase Authenticity

Polished, overly corporate ads often perform worse on TikTok. Use real people, casual language, and natural settings to make your video feel authentic. The best way to nail it? Film in first-person POV, like a regular TikTok user would.

5. Prioritize Vertical Video and High-Quality Visuals

TikTok is made for vertical, full-screen content, so shoot your ad in 9:16 format and make sure it’s optimized for mobile. Keep the lighting bright, visuals clear, and avoid too much clutter on screen.

6. Use Text Overlays

Clear visuals and bold text are key to keeping viewers engaged. Add text overlays to highlight important points like benefits, discounts, or calls-to-action.