Is TikTok Following List in Order? Here’s What To Know

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Carolyn Howell

Last Updated: Oct 21, 2024

TikTok Tips
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“Is TikTok following list in order?” You might have wondered how TikTok arranges your following list. It’s a common question among TikTok users, especially influencers. Like many social platforms, TikTok organizes this list based on different factors. Some users believe it prioritizes those they engage with the most, while others think it’s random. 

In this guide, we’ll answer the question, “Is TikTok following in order?” and explain the factors TikTok uses to arrange it. Keep reading to find out more!

An influencer trying to figure out the TikTok following list order.

How TikTok Organizes the Following and Followers Lists

TikTok organizes both the following and followers lists based on engagement and activity. The order of TikTok followers typically reflects recent interactions. Users you’ve recently engaged with may appear higher in the order of TikTok followers. 

On the other hand, the following list may prioritize those you’ve recently followed or interacted with frequently. Engagement and recency play key roles in determining the order, though the exact algorithm remains unclear.

3 Reasons Influencers Should Monitor Their Followers List

As an aspiring influencer, examining the order of your followers list can be essential for growth. The order of your TikTok followers offers strategic insights, helping you understand who engages with your content most. Monitoring your followers’ list can reveal patterns that enhance your TikTok strategy. Before answering the question, “Does TikTok following go in order,” let’s look at three reasons influencers should track their followers list.

Fishing Out Fake Followers

Identifying fake followers is a crucial reason why you should monitor your followers list. When you track your followers’ list order, you can find accounts that don’t like or engage with your posts. This helps you sort out your real followers from the fake ones. 

Finding Your Super Fans

You may forget your earliest followers as you gain more followers on TikTok. These early supporters are likely to be your most loyal and authentic followers. By understanding your followers’ list order, you can easily recognize and appreciate them to strengthen your bond with them.

Helps Customize Your Content Strategy

Your followers’ list order can offer insights into your TikTok engagement patterns. Each follower on your list has their unique interests and preferences. By understanding your followers’ list order, you can gain insights into the demographics and characteristics of your audience. This understanding helps you customize your content to their preferences, engage them, and even attract new followers!

You can optimize your social media presence by paying attention to your followers’ list order. So, how does TikTok arrange your list of followers? Do TikTok followers show in order? Keep reading to find out!

Are TikTok Followers Arranged in Chronological Order?

“Are TikTok followers in chronological order?” No, not necessarily. While some believe newer followers appear at the top, TikTok uses an algorithm to organize your followers list. Factors like mutual interactions, engagement, and shared connections play a significant role.

Here’s how to check your TikTok followers:

  1. Open the TikTok app.
  2. Tap the profile icon at the bottom right.
  3. Tap Followers under your profile.
  4. Scroll to view your followers.

Although it’s not strictly chronological, checking your engagement can still give you a sense of who recently followed you. By understanding your following list order, you won’t miss updates from top TikTok influencers you are following.

An influencer sitting on a couch wondering why TikTok’s following list matters.

Is Someone’s Following List in Order on TikTok?

No. TikTok arranges the following list based on various factors, including recent interactions, engagement, and possibly mutual followers. While you might expect a specific order, TikTok’s algorithm prioritizes accounts based on your relationship with those users. The order can change depending on your recent activity with certain profiles.

Why Is Your Following List Order Vital?

Your following list is important as an influencer because it shapes the content you consume and potential collaborations you might pursue. The people you follow on TikTok shape your world. 

Your following list isn’t just a random mix of accounts you follow. They reflect your interests and inspirations and highlight your potential collaborators. So, how you follow people on TikTok determines what content TikTok suggests.

Note that your following list is for more than just you. Brands and companies often examine the accounts influencers follow to determine whether they align with their objectives. 

Additionally, your following list is like a secret library where you can learn tips and tricks. The accounts you follow can be like secret mentors, showing you how to do challenges on TikTok and more.

Remember that everyone can see your following list on TikTok. Your audience and brands can check your following to decide if they want to engage with you. Now that you know, “Is TikTok following list in order?” let’s see if you can rearrange the order of your following list. 

A female influencer checking her following list.

How To Rearrange Your Following List Order

How are followers listed on TikTok, and can you change the following order? Unfortunately, TikTok has no built-in feature to change your following list. However, you can try a few tricks to rearrange your following list. Here are some ways to change your following list order:

Unfollow and Follow Accounts

One way is to unfollow and follow accounts in the order you want them to appear on your following list. This is not the quickest method, but it will help you get your favorite accounts to the top. Here are some tips to help:

  • Unfollow all the accounts you want to see at the top of your following list. 
  • Create a list of accounts according to how you want the profiles to appear on your following list.
  • Start following the accounts from the last account on your list.

There is no guarantee that your following list will be in order, but users have reported this as an option. 

Manage Your Following List

Managing your TikTok following list helps keep it relevant and aligned with your content goals. You can regularly review and clean up your list by unfollowing inactive accounts or those no longer related to your niche. This not only keeps your feed fresh but ensures you’re engaging with the right community.

Also, interact more with accounts that inspire you or align with your brand. Engaging with the right creators improves your TikTok experience and helps you build stronger connections. Keep your following list active and meaningful to stay focused on your growth.

An influencer using TikTok analytics to analyze her following list.

Restrictions on Rearranging TikTok’s Following List

TikTok doesn’t allow you to rearrange the following list manually. TikTok’s algorithm determines the order of the list based on interactions, account activity, and various other engagement factors. 

Unfortunately, users can’t choose the display order or reorganize the list based on their preferences. While some social platforms allow customized lists or favorites, TikTok keeps things fixed. This means your following list will change based on activity and engagement over time.

How to Set Your TikTok Following List to Private

If you prefer to keep your following list private, TikTok offers a setting for that. Here’s how to make your following list private:

  1. Open the TikTok app and log in.
  2. Tap the profile icon in the bottom right corner.
  3. Click the three horizontal lines in the top right corner to open Settings.
  4. Select Privacy, then scroll to the Following list.
  5. Toggle the option to private.

By switching to a private following list, only you can see the accounts you’re following. This feature is helpful if you want more control over your TikTok profile’s visibility.

How To Use TikTok Analytics To Analyze Your Following List

Ready to use the TikTok analytics tool to gain insights from your following list? Here’s how:

  1. Update TikTok: Make sure you have the latest version of TikTok installed on your mobile device and log in to your account.
  2. Access Your Profile: To view your profile page, tap the Profile icon at the bottom right corner of your screen.
  3. Open Creator Tools: Click the three lines at the top right corner, then select Creator Tools from the options.
  4. Navigate to Analytics: Tap Analytics to enter the TikTok Analytics dashboard.
  5. View Follower Insights: In the Followers tab, you’ll see detailed insights, including demographics and follower activity.

A user sitting and trying to follow people on TikTok via her smartphone.

Get a TikTok Pro Account To Access Advanced Analytics

Now you know the answer to the question, “Is TikTok following list in order?” So, let’s look at how to see advanced analytics through a Pro account. To unlock more detailed follower insights and content performance metrics, upgrading to a TikTok Pro account is essential. With Pro, you gain access to advanced analytics that help you refine your content strategy and grow your audience more effectively.

  1. Open the TikTok app and log in to your account.
  2. Tap the Profile icon, then click the three lines in the top right corner.
  3. Select Settings and Privacy, then tap Accounts.
  4. Choose Switch to Pro Account.
  5. Pick the category that best fits your content, such as “Personal Blog” or “Entertainment.”
  6. Follow the steps to finalize the switch to Pro.

Once upgraded, you’ll have access to enhanced analytics, which will help you better understand your followers and content performance. Use this data to tailor your TikTok strategy and grow your presence effectively.

An influencer smiling at the increase in her follower list.

FAQ

Is the list of people I follow on TikTok visible to others?

Yes, the list of accounts you follow on TikTok is visible to others by default. Anyone can view the people you follow by visiting your profile. However, you can manage your privacy settings and make your following list private. This ensures that only you can see it. To change your privacy settings, go to the “Privacy” section under “Settings and Privacy” on your profile.

Is it possible to view someone else’s followers list on TikTok?

Yes, you can view someone else’s list of followers on TikTok as long as their account is public. To do this, simply go to their profile and tap the “Followers” tab. If their account is private, you won’t see their followers list unless they approve your follow request. Keep in mind that some users may also have privacy settings that limit access to this list.

Can I follow users from someone else’s followers/following list?

Yes, you can follow users directly from someone else’s followers or following list. When you access their list, you’ll see a “Follow” button next to each account. Simply tap it to follow someone. This method can be a great way to discover new accounts or connect with mutual followers in your niche.

How can I check my list of followers on TikTok?

To check your list of followers on TikTok, tap the profile icon at the bottom of your screen. Once on your profile page, click the “Followers” tab just below your profile picture. This will show you a list of all the accounts that follow you. You can scroll through this list to see who your current followers are.

Grow Your Followers With High Social Today!

Understanding your following list can help you gain insights into your audience and find inspiration from top influencers. More followers mean a larger audience, which leads to higher engagement and visibility of your content. However, growing a genuine and engaged follower base can be tricky.

That’s where High Social, an organic growth agency, comes in. High Social helps you grow your follower count with real and engaged followers, enhancing your online presence. With their expert strategies, you can improve your content and attract the right audience.
If you’re wondering, “Is TikTok’s following list in order?” Focus on growing your followers first with the Help of High Social. Start growing your TikTok today!

TikTok Tips