TikTok SEO in 2025: The 9-Step Playbook for Faster Discovery

By Kiibati Elebute · Oct 17, 2025 · Tags: TikTok, SEO, Shorts

1. Pick a primary keyword users actually search (e.g., “Ottawa jollof rice catering”).
2. Say it on camera in the first 3 seconds—TikTok parses audio.
3. On-screen text: put the exact phrase in big, clean text.
4. Caption: first 80 chars = hook + keyword; add 2–3 related phrases.
5. Hashtags: 1–2 branded + 3–5 niche tags (skip generic #fyp).
6. Cover text: repeat the keyword; choose a readable freeze-frame.
7. Location: add city/region if relevant—huge for local discovery.
8. Link out with a direct CTA (menu, template, booking page).
9. Batch and iterate: publish 3 variations per keyword and keep the winner.