How To Go VIRAL On TikTok in 2025

So 2025 is officially here and you guessed it… TikTok continues to be the epicentre of digital culture, where trends are born, stars are made and brands can be catapulted to global fame overnight. For marketers, understanding these trends and knowing how to leverage them is crucial for capturing the ever-shifting attention of TikTok’s vast audience. Here’s what you need to know to go viral on TikTok in 2025 this year…

Let’s talk about how incorporating ‘Gen Z slang’ into your User-Generated Content (UGC) ads can be a game-changer when it comes to appealing to younger demographics on platforms like TikTok. Here’s why and how you can do it effectively:

Why Use Gen Z Slang?

Authenticity: Gen Z values authenticity above all. Using their slang demonstrates an understanding and respect for their culture, which can foster a deeper connection with this audience.
Engagement: Slang terms like “rizz” (charisma) or “slay” (really good) are not just words but cultural touch points. They can boost engagement by making your content feel more relevant and current.

How to Integrate Gen Z Slang in UGC Ads:

Know Your Terms: Familiarise yourself with the latest slang. For instance, “yeet” or “gyatt” might express excitement, while “bet” means agreement. Posts on X reveal that terms like “fanum tax” (unexpected fees) or “shiesty” (untrustworthy) are also in circulation among Gen Z users.
Context is Key: Use slang in the right context to avoid seeming inauthentic or “cheugy” (outdated). It should flow naturally within the content. For example, if you’re promoting a new food product, describing it as “bussin'” could resonate well.
Collaborate with Creators: Partner with Gen Z influencers or content creators who naturally use this vernacular. They can help craft messages that feel genuine, ensuring your slang use is on point. Collaborations can also be a source of authentic UGC, where creators use slang in ways they would naturally.
Moderation: Whilst slang can be engaging, use it sparingly and appropriately. Overuse can come off as trying too hard, which might alienate viewers. A balanced approach where slang complements rather than dominates your ad can be more effective.
Feedback Loop: Keep an ear to the ground through comments and direct feedback from your audience. What resonates today might be “boomer energy” tomorrow, so staying adaptable is crucial.
Cultural Sensitivity: Recognise that much of Gen Z slang has origins in African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and other cultural groups. Respect and understand these origins to ensure your usage is not only effective but also respectful.

By integrating Gen Z slang into your UGC ads, you’re not just aiming for views but for a cultural connection that can translate into brand loyalty. Remember, the goal is to engage, not just to entertain, so ensure that the slang you choose aligns with your brand’s voice and the message you wish to convey

Now let’s talk about why brands should not remain boring and traditional but actually implement fun trends into their strategies.

Brands shouldn’t fear jumping on trends because they offer a way to stay relevant, engage with consumers, and show cultural awareness. By participating in trends, brands can increase visibility, build community, and humanise their image, all while gaining insights into consumer preferences. Trends allow for creative and low-risk experimentation, helping brands to adapt quickly to market changes. However, it’s crucial to engage authentically and respectfully, ensuring that the chosen trends align with the brand’s values and cultural context to avoid seeming out of touch or inauthentic. If you’re new to this and still somewhat confused – fear not, we’ve linked some fun examples:

HOT TAKE:

TikTok is entering its 8th year of popularity. There was a window in time when going viral was a lot easier – and in some instances it still is. But for brands trying to score big, the bar is set high. You need to really be spending time on the app which a lot of people with a brand they want on TikTok aren’t doing. When you’re too attached to your and don’t actually create content FOR TikTok, you lose opportunities to really strike the right nerve to grow your brand presence online. The traditional ways are dead and have been for a long time, the new era is right here in front of you – all it takes is a little bit of courage and time (to really find the right creative route for you). Remember, when you’re posting content on TikTok you’re not making a fancy video every time. You’re creating a series of easily digestible videos that are informative and interesting enough for users to actually want to follow you and tune back in for more. Failure to do so leaves you cooked. (Cooked: a way of describing someone in an extremely negative way).

Need a helping hand to take the plunge into engaging TikTok content? We’ve got the experts who’s love to talk with you.