Ever since it’s launch in 2018, TikTok has taken the social media world by storm. TikTok might be known as the social media choice of teens looking to lip sync and recreate dances. But it’s also increasing in popularity with content creators and brands looking to increase their reach. If you are looking to use TikTok for business, now is the perfect time. When used right, TikTok can help you gain access to huge audience. There are over 680 million TikTok users, and that number is only growing.
Why is TikTok for Business & Brands Beneficial?
There is no doubting that TikTok has tones of benefits when it comes to marketing. Although many still consider it up and coming, it has a solid user base that is international. However the fact that TikTok is growing only adds to the positives. Because it’s not as saturated with users as other platforms like Instagram, it means there are better odds of your content going viral.
The fact that TikTok is a video content platforms is another huge benefit. Video marketing has proven to be a favorite among consumers. So using TikTok is a great way to get your video content in front of more eyes. And if you haven’t been using video marketing, it’s a great excuse to start.
On the other hand, TikTok’s playful nature can allow you to connect with your audience in a different way. You can share a bit more of the heart of your business with fun behind the scenes videos, tutorials and even hopping on a dance trend (or two).
Is Your Audience on TikTok?
While there is no denying the quickly rising popularity of TikTok, doesn’t mean everyone has jumped on the rain. So before investing your time and efforts into TikTok, it’s important to understand if your target audience is even using it.
It’s no secret that majority of TikTok’s user base is in the preteen and teen category. 25% of TikTok users in the U.S. are between 10-19, while 22.4% are ages 20-29. This means businesses and brands with a younger target audience should not be missing out on this marketing opportunity. However, those statistics are slowly changing with 42% of TikTok users aged between 30-49.
TikTok for Business: 3 Important Tips
There are many ways in which you can use TikTok for business. It can be one of your main marketing platforms or be a space to share additional content with your audience. Regardless of your goals getting your brand out there on TikTok only means more exposure which leads to sales, web traffic and followers.
However before you get going with creating TikTok content, there are a few things you should consider.
Learn How To Use the Platform
Before putting pressure on yourself to brainstorm and create content, you should get comfortable with using TikTok. It’s really important you know how to use and navigate the app as well as how to create videos. This will make creating your content a lot more comfortable.
Asides from knowing how to use the app, it’s not a bad idea to get a sense of the type of content that is out there. Browse different profiles and videos to see what others are doing. You can also check out what videos and users are going viral, so you understand what types of content is most popular. Consider also taking time to see what your peers and competitor are doing on TikTok. This can help you not only get some inspiration, but find ways that you can differentiate yourself from them.
Put in Time and Effort
Just like with any aspect of your social media marketing strategy if you are going to do TikTok, make sure you commit to it. This means putting in the time and effort that is needed to come up with a content strategy and execute it. So many people don’t dedicate the right amount of work into certain platforms and then wonder why there aren’t any results. It’s not uncommon for this to happen when you spread yourself too thin among too many social media networks. So make sure using TikTok first works for your business but also that you have the capacity to take it on.
What makes or breaks good content that has the chance to go viral is how much time and effort you spend creating it. Make sure you always schedule time for the creative sides of your marketing and use high quality filming equipment to execute. This might mean upgrading your smartphone, or purchasing a tripod. You might also consider hiring a consultant or creative agency to help with that side of the process.
Have Fun With It
While it’s important to take your business serious it’s just as important to read the room. TikTok at the end of the day is a fun social media network meant to entertain and be interactive. You might still have goals and a strategy in place, but it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun with it. Of course the degree of letting go might vary depending on your industry or profession. But there are still ways to make your content lighthearted while still being professional.
For your business that might mean jumping on a trending dance or hashtag. You could also create a trend of your own for your audience to recreate. Or maybe you want to use TikTok to share fun behind the scenes clips of your every day operations, or of your team members. Just go on TikTok and watch all the videos that are published. That is always a great way to get inspiration for ways you can use the platform that work for you.