The Exact Hashtag Strategy That Works on TikTok Right Now

TikTok has become more than just a place for trends and dance challenges. It’s now one of the most powerful marketing tools for brands and creators. With over a billion active users, the platform provides endless opportunities to reach new audiences. But the real challenge? Cutting through the noise and making sure your content actually gets seen.

Here’s the answer upfront: in 2025, the TikTok hashtag strategy that works best is using 3–5 hashtags per post, with a mix of one trending hashtag, two to three niche hashtags, and one branded hashtag. This balance ensures you get exposure on the For You Page (FYP), while still reaching the right audience that cares about your content.

In this blog, we’ll break down exactly how hashtags work on TikTok, the different types you need to use, how to find the best ones, and the mistakes you should avoid. By the end, you’ll know how to build a clear, effective hashtag strategy that supports growth instead of relying on guesswork.

Why Hashtags Still Matter on TikTok in 2025

Many marketers wonder if hashtags are still important on TikTok, especially as the algorithm evolves. The truth is: yes, hashtags still play a major role, but not in the way people often think. TikTok uses hashtags to understand what your content is about and to decide who might be interested in seeing it.

When you use hashtags strategically, you help the algorithm put your video in front of the right audience. And if engagement is strong, your content has a better chance of landing on the For You Page (FYP), where it can go viral. Without the right hashtags, your video risks being miscategorized or buried under unrelated content.

The 3 Types of TikTok Hashtags You Must Use

The secret to growth isn’t just picking the biggest hashtags. Instead, it’s about combining different types that balance reach and relevance.

1. Trending Hashtags

These are the hashtags that are currently popular and widely used across TikTok. They’re high in traffic, which means high visibility, but they also come with heavy competition. Adding one trending hashtag gives your content the chance to ride the wave of current trends and get discovered by broader audiences.

2. Niche Hashtags

Niche hashtags target a specific audience, such as #MarketingTips, #FitnessJourney, or #VeganRecipes. These hashtags may not pull millions of views, but the audience they attract is far more engaged. Using two or three niche hashtags ensures that your content reaches people who are genuinely interested in your topic, which leads to higher engagement and stronger follower growth.

3. Branded Hashtags

Branded hashtags are unique to your business or personal brand. They not only strengthen your identity but also encourage user-generated content when followers use your tag. For example, a brand might create #StyleWithMe or #CloudsMarketing to build community. Including one branded hashtag in every post builds long-term recognition and loyalty.

How Many Hashtags to Use on TikTok Right Now

Here’s where many creators get it wrong: using too many hashtags. Loading your caption with 10–15 hashtags might work on Instagram, but on TikTok, it looks cluttered and confuses the algorithm.

The ideal range right now is 3–5 hashtags per post. The most effective formula for 2025 is:

• 1 trending hashtag for broad exposure
• 2–3 niche hashtags for targeted engagement
• 1 branded hashtag for brand consistency

This balanced mix ensures you’re not just chasing views, but building an audience that actually cares about your content.

How to Find the Best Hashtags for Your Content

Picking the right hashtags is all about research. Here are the best ways to find hashtags that actually work:

1. Use TikTok’s Search Bar

Start typing a keyword related to your content, and TikTok will suggest trending hashtags. This shows you what’s hot in real time.

2. Check Competitors and Creators in Your Niche

See what hashtags are driving engagement for creators in your space. If a competitor consistently uses certain hashtags, it’s worth testing them in your own strategy.

3. Use Analytics and Tools

TikTok’s built-in analytics (available with a Business Account) can show you which hashtags bring traffic to your content. You can also use third-party tools to track hashtag performance over time.

Common Hashtag Mistakes to Avoid

Even with the best intentions, many creators hold themselves back by making these common mistakes:

• Overloading with hashtags: Using 10+ hashtags dilutes your message.
• Only using generic tags like #FYP: These don’t guarantee reach and are often too saturated.
• Ignoring niche relevance: If your hashtags don’t match your content, viewers will scroll past.
• Not updating your strategy: TikTok trends move fast — hashtags that worked last month may not work today.

Avoiding these pitfalls ensures your hashtag strategy stays sharp and effective.