Precise Targeting and Content Strategy
On TikTok, a platform with over 117 million US users, the first step to growing your following quickly and cost-effectively is to clearly define your target audience. US users value personalization and authenticity, so generic content is unlikely to stand out. It is recommended to first use TikTok’s built-in “Analytics” tool to analyze follower profiles, or cross-reference data using tools like Instagram or Google Analytics to pinpoint key dimensions such as age, interests, and geographic location. For example, if the target audience is college students aged 18-24, content could focus on campus life, exam tips, or part-time job experiences.

Participating in local trends is key to gaining followers. U.S. users are enthusiastic about niche communities such as #BookTok (book recommendations) and #SportsOnTikTok (sports challenges). Emerging trends in 2025, such as #hopecore (self-improvement) and retro fashion (e.g., 1990s-inspired outfits, Y2K aesthetics), are also worth monitoring. When creating content, keep two points in mind:

Capture attention within the first 3 seconds: U.S. users scroll at an extremely fast pace, so the opening should use exaggerated expressions, suspenseful questions, or popular background music (such as Lizzo’s “About Damn Time”) to quickly retain viewers.
Low-cost trend-hopping: No professional equipment is needed; use your phone’s built-in filters and TikTok effects. For example, recreate the humorous “I remember when I lost my mind” nostalgia challenge, or participate in the humorous “United in Grief” challenge.
Second section: Low-cost promotion and interaction techniques
TikTok ads in the U.S. market have a high starting price (e.g., brand takeovers cost $50,000 per day), but there are still two affordable options:

TikTok Promote feature: Target a single video, choose “video views” or “follower growth” as the goal, set a daily budget of $5–$10, and precisely target specific states (e.g., California, Texas) or interest tags (#Fitness, #Beauty). Testing shows that a $30 budget can reach over 10,000 potential followers.
Micro-influencer collaborations: U.S. micro-influencers (10,000–100,000 followers) typically charge $50–200 per post, but their engagement rates far exceed those of major influencers. For example, collaborate with local college student bloggers on a “Campus Survival Guide” series to resonate with authentic scenarios.
Engagement is the algorithm’s hidden driver. U.S. users expect immediate feedback, so spend 30 minutes daily:

Reply to comments with a humorous tone (e.g., “You’re my new BFF!”)
Launch “Duet Challenges” (e.g., singing along to a popular song) or “Stitch Debates” (e.g., “Chips vs. Popcorn”)
Hold regular live streams (twice a week), with themes tied to U.S. trends (e.g., “Black Friday Shopping Guide” or “Halloween Makeup Showdown”)
Third section: Long-term strategies and pitfall avoidance guidelines
Beware of two major traps when using low-cost follower growth methods:

Avoid fake follower services: U.S. platforms strictly crack down on fake accounts. Purchasing 1,000 followers may result in account suspension, and fake followers lack engagement, which actually lowers account weight.
Avoid excessive commercialization: U.S. Gen Z users dislike hard advertising. It is recommended to integrate products into everyday scenarios (e.g., using a specific brand of coffee to create an “exam season energy drink”) or encourage users to create UGC through giveaway activities (e.g., “Share your quirky roommate”).
Consistently producing series content can cultivate loyal followers. For example, post “New York Street Interviews” every Wednesday or update the “Texas Food Map” monthly. Also, pay attention to key cultural events in the US: January (New Year’s resolutions), June (graduation season), and November (Black Friday). Plan themes in advance to leverage organic traffic.

Ultimately, remember: TikTok is not a “get-rich-quick” tool, but a community for “building authentic connections.” As American users say, “Be authentic, or be quiet.”