(Source: https://pltfrm.com.cn)
Introduction
China’s mobile-first audience spends more time on video apps than on any other format, making platforms like Douyin, Kuaishou, and Bilibili essential battlegrounds for user engagement. But simply uploading content isn’t enough—global brands must craft culturally relevant, format-optimized strategies to spark real interaction. Whether you’re a lifestyle brand, a tech innovator, or a luxury label, building a high-engagement presence on Chinese video apps requires precision. This article outlines the key strategies overseas brands can use to engage Chinese users and foster meaningful, scalable interaction.
1. Localize Content With Relatable Scenarios and Trends
Use everyday cultural touchpoints to connect emotionally
Chinese audiences engage with content that reflects their lives—be it food rituals, work culture, or dating humor. Brands that incorporate localized context into storytelling see higher watch-through rates and shares.
Participate in native trends and seasonal formats
Douyin and Kuaishou regularly feature trending sounds, filters, or challenges. Joining these movements—with brand-appropriate adaptation—demonstrates fluency and increases algorithmic visibility.
2. Optimize Content Length, Hook, and Pacing
Start strong in the first 3 seconds
On platforms like Douyin, the opening seconds determine scroll-through or engagement. Use motion, bold text overlays, or teaser-style openers to grab attention.
Keep videos concise but layered with storytelling
High-performing videos are often between 15–45 seconds. While short, they still deliver a narrative arc—product reveals, surprise outcomes, or emotional peaks keep users watching and rewatching.
3. Use Interactive Features to Boost Engagement
Incorporate polls, duet features, and gamified CTAs
Features like “duet this,” “choose your favorite,” or tap-to-vote drive participation. These micro-interactions are crucial for engagement metrics that push content to wider audiences.
Run hashtag campaigns or limited-time challenges
Create branded challenges with compelling user rewards—early access, giveaways, or featured reposts. These foster UGC and build a sense of community.
4. Personalize the Journey With Private Traffic Tools
Link high-engagement content to WeChat Mini Programs or WeCom
Redirect video traffic to deeper brand ecosystems. For instance, a Douyin video can end with a CTA to scan a QR code for a free trial, available via Mini Program.
Use CRM tagging and retargeting based on viewer behavior
By analyzing which videos lead to follow, click, or save actions, brands can segment users and tailor future content or promotions accordingly.
Case Study: Korean Skincare Brand Drives Engagement With Localized Douyin Series
A Seoul-based skincare brand launched a 12-part video series on Douyin, blending skincare tips with humorous skits based on Chinese college dorm life. Each video was 30–45 seconds and integrated product placements organically. The campaign included a #DormRoomBeautyChallenge and a QR code link to their Mini Program. Within two weeks, the series reached 16 million views and generated 180,000+ engagements, with 35% of users opting in for CRM follow-up.
PLTFRM is an international brand consulting agency that works with companies such as Red, TikTok, Tmall, Baidu, and other well-known Chinese internet e-commerce platforms. We have been working with Chile Cherries for many years, reaching Chinese consumers in depth through different platforms and realizing that Chile Cherries’ exports in China account for 97% of the total exports in Asia. Contact us, and we will help you find the best China e-commerce platform for you. Search PLTFRM for a free consultation!
