Trust me. You don’t need to know how to dance! But it can help.
Yes, if TikTok dances are your only exposure to this new platform, buckle up, because we’re on a ride to grow your business.
You’ve set up a Facebook and gotten the hang of Instagram. But now, there’s a new platform that’s powering up the ranks, and that’s TikTok.
If you’re wondering what this platform is all about, let’s explore now (and no, I won’t make you dance).
What is TikTok
TikTok is a video sharing platform. It’s where all the videos are vertical, so you can watch them on your phone.
TikTok is where all the current trends are coming from. You may have heard of TikTok dances or interviews.
You may have even heard of songs becoming popular again – purely off the back of its success on TikTok. It’s all happening there.
Why you should use TikTok for your small business
The reason to consider getting your business on TikTok is because that’s where your potential customers are flocking to.
TikTok’s popularity soared over the pandemic, as people were stuck at home in need of connection and entertainment. And to this day it shows no sign of slowly down.
How to get started with TikTok
To get started, sign up for TikTok on the TikTok app (which you can download to your phone) – just like you’d sign up for Facebook.
Then inside TikTok you’ll see a few things.
Area 1: Explore (For You)
First is the ‘For You’ feed, which is similar to Facebook’s timeline, except the content here is from accounts that TikTok think you will be interested in.
The TikTok algorithm is incredible and TikTok will adjust its recommendations the more you view videos on the platform. I have friends who have gotten in new hobbies, purely because TikTok thought they’d be into a topic (and they were).
Once you’ve explored, you can create your own videos.
Area 2: Create
TikTok lets you upload your video, or record it right there in the app. You’ll find it also comes with a whole host of features that make it more engaging for your audience. These include:
- Auto-generated captions
- Text
- Speed control
- Questionnaires
- Polls
- Video Trimming
- Video Effects
Once you’ve designed your video, let the algorithm do its work.
How TikTok can work for your small business
Here are some of the ways you can use TikTok for your small business.
Method 1: Showcase your product in action
If your products have a unique selling point – showcase it. And showcase it in interesting ways that capture the emotions and imaginations of your audience.
One of the trends that has exploded in popularity is a TikTok trend of people taking showers in Arc’teryx’s extra waterproof jackets.
The campaign has generated over 110 million views for the brand and lead to increased sales of their products.
Method 2: Give tips to your audience
MK runs a small product photography brand out of Sydney.
He has built his small business off the back of his photo tips. By going behind the scenes, potential customers get an in-depth look and his process.
It makes him appear more trustworthy and respected in his industry (great for services!)
Method 3: Leverage what’s popular
TikTok producers took audio from a Louis Theroux interview and turned it into a viral song.
Viral music is a huge part of TikTok, and you can use these songs in your videos to increase views, by adding the song to your video in TikTok’s video editor.
The more popular the trend, the bigger your potential audience. This applies for non-online marketing as well e.g. a Stranger Things styled Grill’d restaurant.
Final thoughts on TikTok for small business
TikTok has a massive user base, with millions of active users worldwide, and many of them in your local area.
This provides a great opportunity to tap into a diverse audience and find your target customers. You’ve now got the info – jump in and make some videos!
