TikTok vs Instagram: What Happened When I Posted the Same Content (1.6M vs 300K Views)
As women business owners, we are told to “show up consistently” on Instagram, but what if the platform itself is holding back your growth? I ran a simple experiment by posting the same content on Instagram and TikTok. The results? Instagram: 300,000 monthly views. TikTok: 1.6 million.
This case study is not just about numbers. It is about how platform culture, algorithms, and relatability shape the kind of reach and conversions you can achieve. If you have been debating where to focus your energy, here is what happened when I posted the same content on both platforms and why TikTok is where your efforts will truly pay off.
Why TikTok Outperforms Instagram in Organic Reach
When the exact same video gets 50,000 views on TikTok and only eight on Instagram, it is clear the difference is not content quality, it is algorithm design. Instagram rewards existing popularity, while TikTok prioritises engagement. That means your posts are pushed out to wider audiences regardless of follower count.
For women business owners building aligned audiences, this levels the playing field. TikTok gives your content the chance to succeed on merit, not just vanity metrics.
From Views to Tangible Business Growth
TikTok reach does not just look good in analytics. It flows into real results. When I have a big TikTok month, I see direct growth in podcast listeners, Substack subscribers, website traffic, book sales, and client enquiries.
This proves TikTok reach is more than “eyeballs.” With aligned branding and strategy, those viewers convert into an ecosystem of engaged clients and community members.
Why Relatability Wins on TikTok
One of the biggest differences between the platforms is their culture. Instagram’s highest currency is aspiration, with highly curated feeds and polished facades. TikTok’s highest currency is relatability.
That means you do not need to perform. Instead, you can sit down, talk to your audience like a friend, and share your real insights. This authenticity not only makes content creation easier, it also makes consistency more sustainable.
Content Repurposing Strategy: TikTok First, Instagram Second
Here is how I approach it:
I create three TikToks a day.
At the end of the month, I identify my highest performers.
Those become my Instagram reels.
This way, Instagram gets only the best-tested content, and I do not waste time uploading videos that will not perform. TikTok becomes the testing ground, Instagram becomes the repurposed gallery.
Why TikTok Converts Faster
TikTok’s search engine design means users are already looking for solutions. Combine that with the intimacy of talking-to-camera video and you have a recipe for rapid conversions. While Instagram followers might mull over your offers for months, TikTok viewers often buy within days because they are already problem-aware and ready to invest.
Final Thoughts: Where to Focus Your Energy
If you are still putting all your energy into Instagram while dabbling on TikTok, you are missing out. TikTok offers exponential reach, a more authentic culture, and faster conversions. And when that reach flows into every other area of your business, the choice becomes obvious.
For values-led women business owners who want to stop overthinking and start attracting aligned audiences, TikTok is not optional anymore. It is essential.
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