platform-optimization

# Platform Optimization for Sponsored Content

## TikTok (2025 Algorithm Updates)

### Critical Changes
- **Watch time now weighs 5x more** than likes or comments
- **15-20 second engagement threshold** replaced old 3-5 second hook metric
- **Completion rates determine 74%** of For You Page placements
- Videos **60-180 seconds** achieve highest reach (2-3 min content drives 43.2% more views)
- Content **under 30 seconds now faces algorithmic disadvantages**

### Optimal Structure
- Hook in first **3 seconds** (71% of viewers decide here)
- Target **75%+ completion rate**
- Focus on watch time, not just likes
- Engagement velocity in first hour predicts viral potential

### TikTok Shop Affiliate Scripts
- Hook: "I can't believe this [product] actually [result]!"
- Problem-solution narrative viewers relate to
- Strong CTA: "Check the link if you want to grab one!" or "Tap the product tag"
- Optimal length: **15-30 seconds for shop, 60-90 seconds for brand deals**
- Post 5-10 high-quality videos daily for best results

### Cross-Platform Warning
**January 2025**: Cross-posted content from other platforms penalized up to **40% in reach**. Create TikTok-native content.

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## Instagram Reels (2025)

### Key Ranking Factors
1. **Watch time** — Primary factor
2. **Likes per reach** — Engagement quality
3. **Shares per reach** — Especially DM shares from non-followers

### What Gets Pushed
- High saves, shares, comments
- Trending audio (doesn't need to be #1 — audio should fit the Reel's vibe)
- Strong hooks with high-quality visuals
- Content understandable without additional context

### Optimal Length
- **30-90 seconds** for engagement
- Reels up to 3 minutes supported, but shorter performs better

### Spring 2025 Update
**3-second retention prioritized above all else**. Your hook is more important than ever.

### Script Adaptations for Reels
- Visual hook even more critical than TikTok
- Slightly more polished aesthetic expected
- Captions essential (many watch witho