Guest author: Sophie von Mensenkampff, EMEA Marketing Manager, Visibrain

TikTok has become a platform of major importance for brands across all sectors, but what does it really take to go viral? In their latest study, Visibrain breaks down the TikTok landscape to help marketers and PR professionals understand exactly how top-performing content captures attention.

As well as ascertaining the current trends on the app, the study also breaks down why. It explores the anatomy of a viral post, revealing how timing, tone, audio, and authenticity combine to spark massive engagement. For brands looking to better understand how to grow their presence or simply monitor conversations around them, this report serves as a practical guide to navigating TikTok’s fast-moving ecosystem.

Download the full study.

Understanding the TikTok landscape

Over the course of 2025, TikTok has continued to dominate social conversations. But, just as is the case with all social media, the landscape is evolving. While entertainment remains at its core, the platform has become a key space for brand storytelling and community-building

Visibrain’s study identifies the types of content that generate the highest engagement and also highlights how TikTok differs from other platforms. While X and Instagram reward polished visuals, TikTok thrives on spontaneity and authenticity.

“TikTok is where creativity meets data,” says a Visibrain social listening expert. “What works is not just what looks good, it’s what feels real. Our study helps brands decode those signals so they can engage meaningfully.”

The anatomy of a viral post 

Is there a secret formula behind a viral TikTok? Visibrain’s investigation reveals that it’s a mix of elements including: emotional storytelling, sound selection, pacing, and timing. The analysis highlights how this can vary from industry to industry. For instance, consumer brands tend to find success with playful, trend-based videos, while service or tech companies perform best with educational, insight-driven clips that simplify complex ideas.

By breaking down real examples, the report gives professionals concrete takeaways: what kinds of videos drive engagement, which hashtags matter most, and how brands can adapt fast to changing cultural moments.

Packed with insights and real-world examples based on data, this an essential resource for any communication professional looking to enhance their TikTok strategy.

Download the full study for free.

About Visibrain

Visibrain is a leading social listening platform that helps organisations understand, monitor, and anticipate online conversations. Designed for communication, marketing, and PR professionals, Visibrain provides real-time access to millions of posts from across social networks and online media.

Our platform delivers more than just data. By combining powerful monitoring technology with intuitive dashboards, Visibrain turns complex information into actionable insights. From tracking brand reputation to analysing crises, identifying influencers, or benchmarking competitors, we give businesses the tools they need to stay ahead of the conversation.

Trusted by global brands, agencies, and institutions, Visibrain is committed to providing reliable, precise, and transparent social data. With a strong focus on accuracy and usability, we enable professionals to make informed decisions, protect their reputation, and uncover new opportunities in an increasingly fast-moving digital landscape.

Guest author: Sophie von Mensenkampff, EMEA Marketing Manager, Visibrain

For more information, check out visibrain.com.

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