Many TikTok creators notice an odd trend: their videos get a burst of views in the first hour after posting, then suddenly the numbers slow down—or stop altogether. This can be confusing and discouraging, especially if you’re trying to grow your account. But don’t worry—this is a common experience, and there are reasons behind it.
-
How TikTok’s Algorithm Works
TikTok uses an algorithm to decide who sees your video. When you post, the app tests your content with a small group of users to see how they interact. If people like, comment, share, or watch to the end, the video gets shown to more people. If engagement slows down, the algorithm reduces distribution.
This explains why you see a spike in views during the first hour—the initial test group. After that, the algorithm decides whether to keep pushing your video or not.
-
Engagement Rate Matters
The algorithm doesn’t just care about views—it looks at how people interact with your video. If viewers scroll past without watching, or if they don’t engage, TikTok may stop showing it to others. High watch time, comments, and shares can extend your video’s reach beyond the first hour.
-
Posting Time
Your posting time can affect how long your video stays active. If you post when your audience is online, your video has a better chance of building momentum. But if you post when your followers are asleep or inactive, views might peak early and then stall.
-
Competition for Attention
TikTok is flooded with new videos every second. After your video has its initial run, it competes with fresh content for visibility. If it doesn’t stand out or doesn’t perform well compared to other videos, TikTok might stop pushing it.
-
Shadowbanning or Content Restrictions
Sometimes, videos stop getting views because TikTok has flagged them. If your content violates community guidelines—or if TikTok suspects spammy behavior—your video may be restricted, which stops views after the initial boost.
-
Glitches and Technical Issues
Like any app, TikTok sometimes has glitches. Your views may freeze or stop due to a temporary bug in the system. In such cases, views often resume after a few hours or days once TikTok updates.
-
Content Saturation
TikTok often favors new content over older posts. After your video has been circulating for about an hour, the algorithm might shift attention to newer uploads. Unless your video performs extremely well, it may not continue trending.
How to Keep Your TikTok Views Growing
If you want to stop your views from stalling, try these tips:
- Hook viewers in the first 3 seconds so they keep watching.
- Post consistently at peak times when your audience is active.
- Encourage interaction by asking questions or adding call-to-actions (e.g., “Comment if you agree”).
- Use trending sounds, hashtags, and challenges to boost visibility.
- Improve watch time by making your videos engaging, short, and replay-worthy.
Also Read: Why does my TikTok have zero views?
