Let's cut through the noise here. I've been where you are - posting a few times a week, engaging enough, yet stuck under 10 views a video. The algorithm isn't punishing you for inconsistency; it's rewarding poorly optimised content.
Here's what I'd do. First, check your retention graph on each video. If it drops off in the first 2 seconds, your hook is dead. Test five different hooks for the same topic - question, bold statement, teaser, controversy. Second, stop posting 'whenever you feel like it'. Data shows the same content posted at 2pm gets 4x more views than at 10pm for some niches. Use TikTok's analytics to find your audience's active hours.
Third, hashtags aren't magic. Use 3-5 niche-specific ones, not #fyp. Also, engage with others in your niche for 15 minutes before posting - TikTok sees you as part of a community. Track which video type (talking head, trending audio, clip) gives the best retention and double down.
It's not about posting more; it's about making each post earn its keep. Run it like a mini A/B test every week. You'll see movement in under 10 days.