Compared to platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, TikTok is relatively new and young. However, it didn’t take too long for it to rise in popularity and become a leading platform, especially among Millennials. TikTok has over one billion active users, and you probably also have an account.
Now, considering this data, it has also become an essential part of every marketing strategy. Some people might argue that it is an entertainment platform where people post funny videos and sketches. This is true, but you can also take advantage of the exposure your business would get here, and here are some tips and tricks you should use.
1. Create a strategy
First things first, before you start posting anything, you need to have a clear goal. Due to this reason, you need to get familiar with the platform, algorithms it uses, other creators, and most importantly, your target audience. If you do not obtain this information beforehand, the chances are you won’t get very far.
Start by exploring it via your private account. Scroll through the For You page, adjust filters and see how they change the content you receive, and so on. Next, research how the algorithms work. Yes, these constantly change, which is why you need to stay on top of everything. Once you have done this, it is time to observe other creators and your future audience.
When it comes to the former, you should focus on people from your niche, such as other companies, competitors, and influencers. Check out the type of content they post, how often they add new videos, hashtags they use, etc. Lastly, TikTok is mainly used by Gen Z and Millennials. However, other generations are also joining, so you should research users to understand what type of content would be most appealing to them. When starting a brand new account, it may be challenging to attract followers, which is why you should check out the TikFuel website to see how they can support you on this journey.
2. Choose the type of content
The great advantage of using TikTok for marketing purposes is that you can create several types of videos. We are talking about how-to videos and tutorials, hashtag challenging, live videos, sketches, behind-the-scenes content, and so on. There are different categories, and it is one of the reasons why you need to get familiar with all the ins and outs of the platform before starting your campaign.
Naturally, you have to consider several things when choosing the type of content you will post. First, think about your business and what the best way to present it is.
Moreover, investigate what your target audience enjoys. You can simply see this by exploring their comments and likes. If you target youngsters, you should make entertaining content that will grab their attention and videos they will repost or share with their friends.
3. Optimize your account
Now that you have all the information you need, it is time to set an account. Naturally, you should create a business profile since this one provides you with additional features to grow your exposure and attract users. Once you do this, you will have a blank canvas to fill, and you need to be smart about it.
Start with the profile photo. Ideally, it will depict your brand’s logo, and you should use the one you have on other social media platforms. This way, you will connect all your accounts, and users will immediately recognize your business. Next, there are the bio section and the website link. Since TikTok only gives you 80 characters in the bio field, you should carefully think about what you will write.
If you already have a catchphrase, make sure to add it. It is another thing potential customers will instantly recognize. If not, find the best words to describe your business quickly and the products you offer. Also, you can use emojis, but this is only advisable if your target audience is young people. If we are talking about older generations, they might not even understand what you are trying to say with these, and they might also not find them very professional. Finally, make sure to include the link to your e-commerce store so that people can quickly explore your business.
4. Collaborate with influencers
In today’s world of digital marketing, influencers are your best friends, especially if you run a start-up. One video from them can quickly grow your follower base.
Obviously, you should consider only those influencers whose videos are watched by your target audience. You can send them some of your products and ask them to share their impressions online, or you can formally ask them for collaboration. This depends on the size of your business and budget. If the latter is true, you will probably want to have some sort of agreement or contract with them. It is okay to give them guidelines on promoting your store, but you should also give them some creative freedom.
After all, no one knows their followers better than they do.
5. Design high-quality videos
Since you can only post videos on TikTok, you need to ensure that yours are of top quality. We are not only talking about the content itself but also about the quality of the sound and picture. No one will give your account a chance if the videos are grainy or if the sound is poor. Due to this reason, you need to use the best equipment you currently have at your disposal.
If you want to film yourself presenting your merchandise or give followers a behind-the-scenes look, you need to ensure there is enough light in the room. What’s more, make sure that the sound is crystal clear. You can also add captions, and these are a great way to expand your audience. People assume the only purpose of these is to enhance the clarity of what is being said in the video. However, the truth is that some people prefer watching videos will the volume down. In addition, don’t forget that your content may reach users worldwide, and their English may not be proficient, meaning they find reading easier than listening.