The TikTok algorithm feels like some kind of mysterious black box to most creators, right? Like there’s this unpredictable gatekeeper randomly deciding who gets famous and who stays invisible. But I’m gonna let you in on something it’s not random at all.

TikTok’s got this whole machine learning system that’s checking dozens of things within seconds of your video going live. It’s figuring out whether your content deserves a spot on people’s For You Page or not. And once you understand what it’s actually looking for, everything changes. You stop guessing and start creating strategically.

Every single video gets tested on a small audience first. What happens in those first few hours? That determines if you reach 500 people or 5 million. So let’s break down exactly what TikTok’s algorithm is analyzing before it decides to push your video out.

9 Algorithm Signals That Decide Whether Your Video Goes Viral

1. Video Completion Rate Determines Everything

This is the big one. TikTok is obsessed with how many people watch your entire video. Like, seriously obsessed. This completion rate is basically the algorithm’s best guess at whether your content is actually good or just background noise while people scroll.

If 70% or more of viewers watch your whole video? The algorithm’s gonna push it hard. If most people are bailing in the first three seconds? Your video’s dead in the water, stuck in that initial test phase forever. Just straight into the good stuff. And they end with something satisfying so people feel like watching was worth it.

2. Buy TikTok likes

Even if your video has strong watch time and completion rate, it can still struggle in the first test phase especially when competition is insane. That’s why some creators choose to buy TikTok likes to give their content an early engagement push. When a video gets likes quickly, it sends a stronger signal to the algorithm that people are enjoying it, which can help it reach more viewers faster.

If you want a safe option, Media Mister is a trusted provider many creators use because delivery looks natural and helps improve social proof. They also offer free TikTok likes so you can try it first with zero risk.

3. Shares and Saves Content

Yeah, likes are nice. But shares and saves? The algorithm treats those like gold because they take actual effort. When someone shares your video to a friend or saves it to watch later, they’re basically telling TikTok “this is really good.”

The creators who understand this make content specifically designed to be shared or saved. Educational stuff people want to reference later. Emotional stories people want to show their friends. That’s the move.

4. Watch Time Relative to Video Length

The algorithm isn’t just checking if people finished your video it’s looking at how much actual time they spent watching compared to your video’s length.

So like, a 60-second video that people watch for 45 seconds? That’s better than a 15-second video people watch for 12 seconds. Even though the percentage is similar, the algorithm values total attention time more.

Most successful creators find that sweet spot between 21-34 seconds. Long enough to actually say something, short enough that people watch it again. And yeah, the algorithm notices when people immediately rewatch your video. That basically doubles your watch time, which is huge.

5. Relevance to User Interests Gets Matched Precisely

TikTok builds a unique For You Page for everyone based on what they’ve watched before, what they’ve liked, what they’ve commented on all of it. When your video goes live, the algorithm’s trying to figure out who would actually be interested in it.

It looks at which hashtags people engage with, what sounds they like, which creators they watch all the way through. Your video gets shown first to people who’ve liked similar stuff. If those people engage? It expands outward to more people.

This is why being clear about your niche matters so much. When the algorithm can easily tell what your content is about, it can match you with the right audience. Confused content gets confused results.

6. User Interaction History With Your Profile Counts

The algorithm remembers how people have interacted with your stuff before. If someone’s liked or commented on your videos in the past, the algorithm will prioritize showing them your new content. Past behavior predicts future behavior, right?

This creates this snowball effect. When you consistently post good content, you build an audience that automatically engages with your new posts. That engagement signals the algorithm to push even harder.

But it works the other way too. If people keep hitting “Not Interested” on your videos, the algorithm stops showing them your stuff and suppresses it to similar users. Brutal, but that’s how it works.

7. Sound Selection and Trending Audio Boost Visibility

The audio you pick matters more than people think. TikTok tracks which sounds are gaining momentum and actively pushes videos using those trending sounds.

When you use a sound that’s trending upward not totally blown up yet but getting there the algorithm gives you a boost because it wants to help the trend grow. Your video gets shown to people who’ve liked that sound before.

But here’s the catch: the audio has to actually fit your content. When the audio and video don’t match, people get confused and engagement drops. Don’t force a trending sound just because it’s trending.

8. Caption Engagement and Keyword Relevance Matter

Your caption does more than you think. The algorithm reads it to figure out what your video’s about, then uses that to match you with interested viewers.

Strategic keywords help the algorithm categorize your stuff correctly. But the caption also needs to drive engagement. Captions that make people want to comment or share signal that your content sparks conversation.

Questions in captions usually get more comments, but they can’t be generic. “What do you think?” gets ignored. Specific, interesting questions that make people actually want to answer? That’s what works.

9. Consistency and Upload Frequency Build Algorithmic Trust

The algorithm likes creators who show up consistently because regular posts give it more data about your style and what your audience likes.

But consistency doesn’t mean posting trash every day. It means having a predictable schedule you can actually maintain. Three high-quality videos a week often beats seven mediocre ones because each video’s performance affects your overall standing with the algorithm.

The algorithm tracks how your recent videos did compared to your average. If your last five videos underperformed, it might show your next video to fewer people until you prove you’re back on track. It’s constantly evaluating whether you’re trending up or down.

Conclusion

TikTok’s algorithm isn’t this mysterious thing you can’t understand. It’s a system analyzing specific signals to predict what people want to watch. Once you get what it’s looking for, you stop hoping and start strategizing.

Focus on getting people to watch your whole video. Post when your audience is online to trigger that early engagement spike. Make content people want to share and save. Stay consistent with quality content.

Here’s the thing though the algorithm’s ultimate goal is keeping users happy and scrolling. So when you align with what the algorithm wants, you’re really just making content people genuinely want to watch. And that’s the only sustainable path to success on TikTok anyway.

Digital transformation has altered almost every aspect of modern business, and tax is no exception. Across the UK, businesses must now adopt digital record-keeping and reporting practices.

While this was previously optional, it is now mandatory. For founders, this represents a structural change that’s likely to influence financial processes, digital infrastructure, decision-making, and long-term planning, among other areas.

Why Digital Tax Rules Should Be on Every Founder’s Radar

From 6th April 2026, digital tax systems will become a mandatory part of the standard business infrastructure. The ultimate aim of this modernisation is to boost accuracy and transparency across the UK tax system, but for businesses, it means implementing stringent digital financial compliance systems and processes (if you haven’t already).

As such, founders can no longer treat compliance as something that they simply hand over to an accountant. The shift toward digital record-keeping involves quarterly rather than annual reporting, which in turn means that underlying data must be closely and consistently tracked through business systems in real time (or near real time). You can no longer rely on end-of-year reconciliation to clear all financial loose ends; they need to be tracked and addressed immediately.

Founders should be aware that non-compliance with these new digital record requirements and submission obligations will, at best, lead to administrative disruption and, at worst, result in financial penalties or even a fraud investigation. For example, organisations that fail to maintain appropriate digital records or meet reporting deadlines are likely to face daily fines until the deadlines are met.

A Founder-Friendly Overview of Digital Tax in the UK

Let’s start with a founder-focused overview of the new MTD system:

What HMRC means by digital record-keeping and reporting

When they refer to ‘digital record-keeping and reporting’, HMRC means creating and storing financial records using approved digital software and submitting information to it electronically. Typically, a digital financial record uses electronic systems to capture income and expense details, such as amounts, dates sent/received, transaction categories, and more.

For VAT-registered entities, digital records should also include core information like identification data and VAT account records. Just as you would with analogue financial records, you will need to preserve these records digitally for several years in order to maintain an audit trail.

One very important aspect of MTD is digital linking. It is no longer sufficient to manually copy data from platform to platform. Instead, platforms should communicate with one another and link seamlessly for data sharing. This automated connection and data transfer ultimately benefits everyone involved by improving consistency and reducing the risk of human error.

Which businesses are affected

From April 2026, all businesses (including unincorporated businesses) and landlords with income exceeding £50,000 PA will be required to comply with digital record-keeping requirements. The income thresholds are set to get progressively lower over subsequent years. As such, even founders whose businesses don’t currently meet the threshold should start preparing and aligning their processes for Making Tax Digital.

How Digital Tax Rules Impact Day-to-Day Business Operations

Digital tax rules are likely to impact day-to-day business operations in a variety of ways:

Changes to internal finance processes

Businesses will feel immediate effects on internal finance processes once the digital rules come into force. For a start, finance teams will need to ensure that all records are captured in a structured digital format from the outset. This includes transaction categorisation, system integration, installation and maintenance of compatible software environments, and more.

Similarly, reporting cycles and processes will have to shift from retrospective compilation and analysis to continuous monitoring. Teams must start treating financial data as a live operational asset rather than as a once-yearly obligation.

The knock-on effects for cash flow and forecasting

Digital reporting also brings indirect advantages and pressures. For example, real-time financial visibility should enable more accurate forecasting and tax estimation, helping founders anticipate liabilities earlier. Similarly, software environments often display projected tax positions based on current records, which can significantly improve planning capacity.

At the same time, increased reporting frequency can expose gaps in data quality and process discipline that might otherwise go unnoticed. This can create friction in the short term as teams work to plug gaps and fix issues, but it will ultimately lead to smoother, more accurate financial workflows.

Common Mistakes Founders Make When Preparing for Digital Tax

Here are some common mistakes to be aware of and to avoid when preparing for digital tax:

Treating digital tax as a last-minute project

If you possibly can, treat tax as an ongoing process. Leaving things until deadlines are looming has always been a bad idea – but with the new quarterly reporting schedule, it could plunge you into a continuous cycle of chasing your tax backlog.

Remember that your staff will likely need training on the new system, and some processes will need to be redesigned. As such, start preparing as early as possible to avoid delays when the first reporting deadlines arise.

Over-relying on spreadsheets and manual workarounds

Spreadsheets are useful analytical tools, but on their own, they often fail to meet integration and compliance requirements. For example, if you are relying on manually transferring data from spreadsheet to platform to spreadsheet, etc., you’re at risk of submission errors or compatibility issues.

How Founders Can Prepare Their Business in Practical Terms

Let’s take a look at some practical ways business founders can prepare for MTD:

Reviewing existing finance systems and processes

Start by evaluating your existing systems and processes. Assess exactly how financial data enters your organisation, how it is processed, and whether or not your systems support digital linking and structured record retention.

Ideally, use this review as an opportunity to think about software compatibility, staff capability, and documentation practices. Identifying weaknesses early will save you from costly retrofitting later.

Choosing tools that support compliance and growth

The right tools can make a huge difference to your MTD preparation and ongoing financial processes. Look for Making Tax Digital software that aligns with HMRC requirements and allows businesses to maintain records, automate submissions, and integrate accounting workflows.

Working More Effectively With Accountants and Advisors

Accountants and advisors can play a more efficient, more proactive role in a post-MTD world. Here’s how:

Why digital records improve collaboration

Digital systems boost visibility between founders and advisors. For example, if they have the right access and permissions, accountants can access structured data directly. This makes things a lot more efficient and means that no time (or accuracy) is wasted with manual transfers.

This kind of speed and transparency ultimately promotes efficiency, shortens reporting cycles, and supports higher-quality decision support.

Shifting accountants from compliance to strategy

When routine compliance is streamlined with digital tools, professional advisors can focus more on planning and optimisation. This means more time spent working on things like strategic insight on tax positioning, cash flow management, and investment decisions.

Preparing Early as a Competitive Advantage

Early adoption of digital tax processes will reduce operational disruption and position your business to realise the benefits of MTD sooner. For example, the earlier you go digital, the earlier you can benefit from clearer financial oversight and more efficient reporting structures.

Digital readiness also signals organisational maturity. Investors, lenders, and partners frequently view structured data governance as evidence of reliable management capability. This reputational factor can influence your access to funding and boost your credibility in potential partnership situations.

Building a Business That’s Ready for the Future

Digital tax rules aren’t an isolated compliance exercise – they represent a broader shift toward data-centric governance in the UK. As such, founders who treat the transition as an opportunity to refine financial infrastructure will derive greater long-term value than those who focus solely on regulatory adherence.

Embedding digital record discipline, selecting integrated tools, and collaborating strategically with advisors will lay the foundation for scalability and resilience. By approaching preparation as part of organisational development, founders can position their businesses to operate confidently within evolving regulatory and technological environments.

Securing your business premises is a key step in protecting your investment and ensuring the safety of your staff, assets, and customers. In today’s world, security threats can take many forms, such as break-ins and data breaches.

Luckily, there are many effective ways to improve your security and give you peace of mind. Understanding the importance of a secure environment can help you take steps to protect what you’ve built.

Here are some effective security strategies for your business.

Physical Barriers

Investing in strong physical barriers is a simple but effective way to protect your business. This includes using quality doors and windows that are hard to break into. Steel doors, reinforced glass, and sturdy locks can make a big difference. Always choose materials that resist tampering and damage, as these act as strong deterrents to intruders.

Don’t forget about landscaping. Keep the plants around your building well-maintained. Overgrown shrubs and trees can hide potential intruders. A tidy landscape not only improves your property’s look but also makes it safer.

Commercial Security Services

Working with commercial security services can strengthen your overall security plan. These experts assess risks and create customized solutions for your business. By hiring professionals, you gain access to advanced security technology and training for your staff.

These services can help in emergencies and give you peace of mind, knowing that specialists are handling potential threats. Their expertise can help create a more organized security approach that effectively reduces vulnerabilities.

Cybersecurity Measures

In today’s digital world, protecting against cyber threats is just as important as physical security. Strong cybersecurity measures help safeguard sensitive data and protect your business from online attacks. Use firewalls, encryption, and antivirus software to prevent breaches.

Keep your software up to date, as older systems can be easy targets for hackers. Also, train your employees on safe internet practices, like identifying phishing attempts and avoiding suspicious links.

Adequate Lighting

Good lighting is vital for securing your business. Install bright lights around the outside, especially in dark or hidden areas. Motion-sensor lights can alert you and scare off trespassers since unexpected lights can raise suspicion.

Inside, proper lighting improves visibility and makes your business more inviting for customers and employees. Bright areas are safer because all spots are easy to see. Regularly check and maintain the lighting to ensure it works well; a burnt-out bulb can create dark areas that criminals may target.

CCTV Cameras

CCTV cameras are a common and effective security measure. These systems allow you to monitor your premises in real-time and provide evidence if something happens. Place cameras at key locations, such as entrances, loading areas, and blind spots, to ensure good coverage.

Modern cameras often include features such as remote access and high-definition recording, helping you monitor your business effectively. Just having visible cameras can deter crime, as many would-be intruders are less likely to act if they know they are being watched.

Access Control Systems

Using access control systems is a smart way to manage who enters your business and when. These include keycards, fingerprint readers, or mobile access that allow only authorized personnel into specific areas. By restricting access to key areas of your premises, you protect valuable information and assets from unauthorized individuals.

Electronic access control also makes it easier to track who comes and goes, providing important data for security checks or investigations. This technology lets you respond quickly to any suspicious activity, helping to keep your employees and resources safe.

Alarm Systems

A good alarm system is a smart way to protect your business. These systems can detect unauthorized entry and alert you or the police. Look for alarms that offer 24/7 monitoring to keep a close watch on your property at all times.

Today’s alarm systems can connect to your mobile device, sending you instant alerts wherever you are. Knowing that your property is monitored around the clock gives you peace of mind, even if you’re not on-site.

Insurance Coverage

Having good insurance is essential for your business. It protects you from various risks, such as theft, property damage, and liability claims. While insurance can’t prevent problems, it helps you recover faster after an incident.

Regularly review your insurance policy and update your coverage when needed. Knowing what your policy covers keeps you protected and allows you to focus on running your business.

Employee Training

Your employees play a key role in your business’s security. Training them to spot suspicious activities and respond correctly can boost your safety efforts. Hold regular security drills and share best practices to create a culture of awareness.

Encourage employees to communicate openly so they feel comfortable reporting concerns. A well-informed team adds another layer of protection, making it harder for threats to go unnoticed.

Regular Security Audits

Regular security audits help identify weaknesses in your security system. Bringing in a professional to evaluate your setup can highlight outdated protocols, ineffective access points, or gaps in surveillance.

By addressing these weaknesses, you can create a safer environment that adapts to new threats. Regular audits improve security and build confidence among your staff and customers.

A solid security plan for your business combines different strategies that work together. By layering these methods, you create multiple defences that enhance safety and protect your investment.

Mumbai: India’s steel sector is poised for a fresh burst of primary market activity, with at least 10 steel producers and steel-related companies preparing to raise ₹5,000-7,000 crore in total through initial public offerings over the next eight to 10 months.

Steel Infra Solutions Company Ltd, German Green Steel & Power Ltd, Rajputana Stainless Ltd, Bombay Coated Steel Ltd, A-One Steels India Ltd, Jindal Supreme (India) Ltd, Madhur Iron & Steel Ltd, and Synergy Advanced Metals Ltd are among those who have filed draft red herring prospectuses (DRHPs), while a few others are in advanced stages of preparation, according to investment bankers.

The steel industry’s rush to tap the capital markets comes amid improving demand visibility and supportive policy measures.

“India’s steel demand is expected to grow due to infrastructure push for roads, railways, ports, recovery in the steel sector, the PLI scheme for manufacturing, and the government’s continued focus on capex,” said Uday Patil, executive director at PL Capital Markets.

He added that about 25-30% of steel demand is linked to government projects and that safeguard and anti-dumping duties on select imports have helped domestic producers compete on a more level-playing field.

Local companies are targeting significant capacity expansions under the government’s long-term steel policy, aiming to capture the next leg of growth. Mid-sized processors and specialty steel makers, particularly those in coated steel, stainless products, and specialty alloys, are seeing improved order visibility from infrastructure, renewables, railways, metro projects, auto and engineering sectors.
“There is a clear capacity build-out cycle underway among mid-tier players who want to capture domestic demand growth and reduce import dependence in certain product categories,” said Deep Shah, senior manager at Unistone Capital, an investment banking firm. IPO proceeds are expected to be deployed towards greenfield lines, galvanising units, colour-coating facilities and stainless capacity additions. Besides expansion, companies are also looking to strengthen financial profiles, Shah said. After a prolonged deleveraging phase over the past decade, many steel companies are using favourable equity market conditions to further clean up their balance sheets. Lower leverage can improve return ratios, reduce interest burden, enhance credit ratings, and support future borrowing at better terms.

Given the working capital-intensive nature of the steel trade, a portion of the IPO proceeds is also likely to be earmarked for liquidity support to meet capacity expansions.

Bankers also flagged sectorspecific risks such as volatility in steel prices, swings in coking coal costs, import competition, global demand slowdown, and currency movements affecting exports. Margin sustainability will be closely monitored, particularly if raw material costs remain elevated. Yet market participants argue that the narrative around steel is gradually evolving. “India’s steel industry is not viewed purely as a commodity story but as a structural growth play backed by consumption from infrastructure, renewables, railways and urban development.” said Amogh Giridhar, associate partner at Prequate Advisory, adding that investors are becoming comfortable underwriting cyclical businesses where there is evidence of prudent leverage and disciplined capex plans.

However, bankers believe the real test in public markets would always be balance sheet quality and capital allocation discipline for a historically — volatile industry. “Those with clear integration strategies and export competitiveness, coupled with strong domestic consumption may be able to command premium valuations despite the cyclical backdrop,” said Giridhar.