The ‘post to view’ message has recently been popping up on TikTok, leaving many users confused about what it means. This message appears when trying to view content in the TikTok Now feature, informing users they need to post their own content before they can view others’. This article will examine what the ‘post to view’ message means on TikTok and why it has started appearing for some users.
Post Threshold
In September 2021, TikTok introduced a posting threshold to combat spam and low-quality content on the platform. This means that accounts now need to meet certain criteria before being able to post content. As TikTok announced in their newsroom post, creators need “at least 100K authentic video views in the last 30 days” in order to post new videos.
This threshold was put in place as TikTok continues to grow exponentially, making it more difficult to moderate content. By requiring accounts to hit a certain viewership milestone before posting, TikTok hopes to ensure higher quality content across the platform.
How Post Threshold Works
TikTok uses a post threshold system to limit views and engagement for new accounts until they cross a certain posting threshold. This is done to prevent spam accounts and bot activity. When a new account is created, TikTok restricts how many views and engagements their early posts will receive. Typically, only followers of the account will see these first few posts in their feeds. Once a TikTok account consistently posts over a period of a few days to weeks, it crosses the posting threshold and views/engagement begin increasing through For You page impressions and recommendations.
According to research by influencer marketing platforms (Chen), it takes most accounts about 10-15 posts to fully cross the threshold. TikTok does this to ensure accounts build up a posting history and demonstrate they will consistently contribute authentic content before amplifying their reach. New accounts essentially have to “prove” themselves not to be spam bots before the algorithm widely shares their content.
Bypassing Post Threshold
Some TikTok users try to find tricks to bypass the post threshold limit when they hit the cap. Common tactics include asking followers to engage more with posts or artificially inflating metrics. For example, some users may ask their followers to like, comment, share, or follow them in an attempt to boost engagement on their account (1). The hope is that this increased engagement will satisfy the algorithm and lift the post threshold limit. However, these tactics rarely work and TikTok often detects artificial engagement (2). The best way to bypass the limit is to build up your account legitimately over time with strong content that generates authentic engagement.
Other tricks like deleting and reuploading the same videos or using multiple accounts may temporarily work but violate TikTok’s community guidelines (3). TikTok wants authentic user experiences so tries to detect and stop these workarounds. While some users try shortcuts, the most sustainable approach involves patience and consistently producing engaging content.
Legitimate Ways to Build Up Account
If you want to build up your new TikTok account organically, here are some tips:
Create high-quality, engaging content. Focus on making creative, entertaining videos using trends, sounds, effects that will capture viewer’s attention. Use captions and hashtags strategically to help reach new audiences. According to Buffer, “the best performers invest time in high-quality content.”
Optimize your profile. Fill out your bio, add a profile and cover photo, and link other social accounts to provide viewers more opportunities to connect with you. According to Neil Schaffer, “complete profiles perform better.”
Engage with your audience. Respond to comments, follow back users who engage with you, and like content in your niche. Building connections helps build a loyal fanbase.
Post consistently. Aim to post at least 1 high-quality video per day, ideally at peak times when your audience is most active. Consistency keeps your content in the “For You” feeds.
Analyze your performance. Use TikTok analytics to see which videos perform best and optimize your content accordingly. Focus on what is working well.
Promote your account. Share your videos on other platforms and encourage people to follow you on TikTok without paying for fake followers or views.
Why TikTok Has Threshold
TikTok implements a post threshold to help maintain the quality of content on the platform and provide users with a good experience. The threshold is meant to discourage spam, bots, and low-effort posts by limiting how often a new or inactive account can upload videos.
Without any limits, people could easily flood TikTok with repetitive or stolen content. This would make it difficult for viewers to find original and engaging videos on their For You feeds. TikTok wants to showcase content that has creativity and effort behind it, not just mass-produced videos.
The post threshold incentivizes accounts to spend time creating high-quality content that will resonate with viewers. According to TikTok, accounts that upload thoughtful, entertaining videos tend to gain more followers and have greater success on the platform.[1] This is why TikTok wants people to focus on producing creative, shareworthy content rather than just maximizing the number of posts.
By enforcing a post threshold, TikTok aims to provide the best possible experience for its users. The limits help filter out low-effort spam so viewers can discover fun and interesting videos from real creators.
How Long Post Threshold Typically Lasts
The post threshold period typically lasts anywhere from 1-4 weeks for most accounts. The exact duration depends on several factors:
- How old your account is – Newer accounts usually face a longer post threshold period than older, established accounts.
- Your posting frequency – Accounts that post more consistently can cross the threshold faster than accounts posting sporadically.
- Content quality and engagement – High-quality, engaging content that receives likes, comments, and shares will help lift the threshold faster.
- Follower base – Larger follower counts indicate an established account, so the threshold may be shorter.
Under normal circumstances, posting 1-2 quality videos per day should allow most accounts to get past the post threshold within 2-3 weeks. Consistency is key – sporadic posting can prolong the process. Patience is required, but the threshold is not permanent and can be overcome through regular posting.
What to Do If You See ‘Post to View’
If you repeatedly see the “Post to View” message on TikTok Now, there are a few things you can try:
First, check your account status in the app’s settings. Make sure your account is in good standing without any restrictions. TikTok may limit posting abilities for accounts that violate community guidelines.
You can also try contacting TikTok support directly to inquire about the “Post to View” limitation. As per TikTok’s support page, “If you think your account has been incorrectly restricted, please file an appeal.” Reach out to support through the app or TikTok’s contact form (https://support.tiktok.com/en/contact-us).
Additionally, be patient and continue engaging positively with other TikTok content. Oftentimes, new accounts face posting limitations that are lifted over time as you build up your account legitimacy. Restrictions generally last a few days or weeks for new users.
Overall, “Post to View” aims to limit spam and low-quality content. By maintaining your account in good standing and appealing if needed, you can lift posting limitations.
Conclusion
In summary, when you see the message “post to view” on TikTok, it means your account has hit a threshold where you need to post more original content before you can start viewing other videos and feeds again. This is TikTok’s way of limiting spam accounts and encouraging genuine engagement on the platform.
For new users who suddenly get the “post to view” message, don’t panic. Focus on posting high-quality, original content without spamming or artificial engagement. Use relevant hashtags, engage with others’ content, and let your account build up naturally. The post threshold typically lasts about a day or two for new accounts. With a little time and effort, you’ll be able to view content freely again.
The main takeaway is that “post to view” is not a punishment, but a temporary limitation designed to make TikTok better for everyone. Keep creating great content, stay positive and patient as your account grows, and you’ll be past the threshold in no time.
References
Information in this article was based on personal experience using the TikTok platform as well as the following sources:
- TikTok Help Center article on working with a low number of followers
- Oberlo article explaining the TikTok algorithm
- Social Media Today article on TikTok’s Post View limits
- Social Insider article on minimum engagement rates on TikTok
- The Economist article on the rise of TikTok among American teenagers
