Tiktok Refugees' Guide to RedNote

Jan 16, 2025 • 3 minutes to read

Getting Started: The Basics


What is RedNote?

Think of RedNote as TikTok meets Instagram meets Pinterest. While TikTok focuses on short videos, RedNote (or “Little Red Book”) is more about lifestyle content with both photos and videos. It's like having a digital lifestyle magazine where you're both the reader and creator.

Download & Registration Tips

  • Download from the App Store or Google Play (search for “小红书” or “RED”)
  • Registration options:
    • Phone number (international numbers work but may be unreliable)
    • WeChat account (if you have one)
  • Pro Tip: Screenshots of key pages/buttons for easy navigation until you learn the Chinese characters

Right after you registered,y ou can choose interests up to 4 before you start browsing and posting. It will recommend posts base on your interests. Of course the algorithm will learn as you spend more time liking and engaging with other people's posts.

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Content Differences: TikTok vs RedNote


Format Differences

  • TikTok: Pure video, fast-paced, entertainment-focused
  • RedNote: Mix of photos and videos, magazine-style posts called “notes”
  • Length: Can be longer than TikTok videos, more detailed content

Content Style

  • Less dancing/challenges, more lifestyle/review content
  • Focus on:
    • Product reviews
    • Travel experiences
    • Food recommendations
    • Beauty tutorials
    • Fashion styling
    • Life tips
    • Shopping guides

Creating Your First Posts


Basic Post Types

  1. Photo Carousel + Text (Most common)
  2. Short Video (Similar to TikTok but usually more polished)
  3. Text-based Review
  4. Shopping Recommendation

Tips for Ex-TikTokers

  • Start with what you know: Convert your successful TikTok content or just a simple genunie self-introduction
  • Add more context: RedNote users expect detailed descriptions
  • You can post up to 12 photos in one post.
  • Unlike Instagram, when you upload an video you can not put in photos in the same post. If you do, your photos would be put inside the video. You can upload multiple videos and they all will be merged into one video.
  • If you want to make a cover, you can choose a frame and edit some text on it.
  • When you post a text style note, you need to upload photo(s) first and then write a title and text.
  • write longer captions (think Instagram caption length x2). You can use the built-in photo editing tools (similar to Instagram filters)

Building Your Following


Content Strategy

  • Post regularly (2-3 times per week minimum)
  • Mix formats: Don't just post videos
  • Add value: Educational/informative content performs well
  • Be authentic: Show real experiences and honest reviews
  • Use English AND Chinese in captions if possible. You can use AI translation tools, like VideoLaunga.

Engagement Tips

  • Interact with similar content creators
  • Reply to comments (builds community)
  • Use relevant hashtags like #tiktokrefugee. Remember the space and caplitalization difference would be identified as a different hashtag. (called “topics” on RedNote)
  • Create themed content series
  • Cross-promote your RedNote on other platforms

Cultural Notes & Common Pitfalls


What Works Different from TikTok

  • Less focus on viral challenges
  • More emphasis on personal experience
  • Higher production value expected
  • Longer attention spans
  • More detailed content preferred

What to Avoid

  • Direct TikTok reposts without adaptation
  • Overly provocative content
  • Pure entertainment without value
  • Political content
  • Controversial topics

Making Your Content Bilingual

As more international Tiktok Refugees join RedNote, there's been a growing trend of foreign content creators sharing their lives and travels on the platform. Chinese users have shown particular warmth and interest in these authentic glimpses into different cultures and lifestyles. However, to truly connect with your Chinese audience and maximize your content's impact, considering translation is a crucial step.

One effective way to break through the language barrier is by using AI translation tools like VideoLangua. This free tool makes it easy to translate your video content into Chinese, helping you reach a broader audience and create deeper connections with local users. Many creators have found that translated content receives significantly higher engagement rates and helps build a more authentic relationship with their Chinese followers.

When translating your videos, try to speak clearly and at a moderate pace in the original recording. Using straightforward sentences will help ensure more accurate translations. It's also worth taking time to review the translations for context and meaning – while AI translation has become quite sophisticated, sometimes small adjustments can make your message clearer. Some creators have found success by adding Chinese subtitles to their photo captions as well, creating a fully bilingual experience for their followers.

You might want to experiment with different translation styles, such as subtitles or voiceovers, to see what works best for your content type and audience. Remember that Chinese viewers particularly appreciate the effort to make your content more accessible to them, even if the translations aren't perfect.

Technical Tips for Success


Video Specs

  • Vertical format preferred (9:16)
  • High resolution (1080p minimum)
  • Good lighting (brighter than TikTok)
  • Clean editing (less effects than TikTok)
  • Multiple clips in one video OK

Photo Requirements

  • High resolution images
  • Multiple photos per post (6-9 recommended)
  • Mix of close-ups and full shots
  • Clean, bright editing style
  • Consistent aesthetic

Growth Strategy for New Users


First 30 Days Plan

  1. Week 1: Post 2-3 introduction-style contents
  2. Week 2: Try different content formats
  3. Week 3: Analyze which posts perform best
  4. Week 4: Focus on your most successful content type

Community Building

  • Follow similar content creators
  • Engage with comments on your posts
  • Join trending topics in your niche
  • Create content series
  • Build a consistent posting schedule

Troubleshooting Common Issues


Can't Post?

  • Check your verification status
  • Ensure content meets community guidelines
  • Try reducing file sizes
  • Clear cache and restart app
  • Update to latest version

Account Restrictions?

  • Avoid sensitive topics
  • Follow posting frequency limits
  • Maintain positive engagement
  • Report technical issues through help center
  • Be patient with new account limitations

Be Aware of Scammers

As RedNote grows in popularity, scammers have become more active on the platform. Here’s how to protect yourself:

Common Scams to Watch For

Fake Collaborations: Scammers may pose as brands or influencers offering collaboration opportunities. Always verify their identity through official channels. Phishing Links: Be cautious of links in DMs or comments asking for personal information. Fake Giveaways: Scammers may promise prizes in exchange for personal details or payments. Impersonation: Some users may create fake accounts pretending to be you or other creators. Report these accounts immediately.

How to Protect Yourself

Never share personal information or payment details. Verify accounts before engaging in collaborations. Use two-factor authentication for your account. Report suspicious activity to RedNote’s support team.

Next Steps


As You Grow

  • Explore collaborative opportunities
  • Join creator programs
  • Build themed content series
  • Create shopping guides
  • Develop your unique style

Remember: RedNote is about quality over quantity. While TikTok rewards viral moments, RedNote rewards thoughtful, valuable content that helps others. Take your time to understand the platform and adapt your content accordingly.

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