TikTok, with its 1 billion monthly active users, has become the ultimate platform to see and be seen. For businesses, this means endless opportunities to engage with their target audience in innovative ways. From jumping on trending topics and hashtag challenges to experimenting with live streams and creating captivating content with dynamic editing tools and trending sounds, TikTok can take your brand to the next level.
In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of using TikTok for business, from setting up your account to measuring your success. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Get a TikTok Business Account
If you already have a personal TikTok account, it’s easy to switch to a Business Account. A TikTok Business Account is free and offers valuable insights into your video performance and followers. It also provides access to Business Suite tools like advertising and auto-messaging. To switch to a Business Account, follow these simple steps:
- Download and open the TikTok app.
- Create a new personal account using your email or log in with your Google, Twitter, or Facebook account.
- Tap “Profile” in the lower right corner, then click the menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top right corner.
- Tap “Settings and Privacy.”
- Tap “Account.”
- Tap “Switch to Business Account.”
- Choose the category that best describes your brand and tap “Next.”
- Add an email address to your profile.
Congratulations! You now have a TikTok Business Account ready to take your brand to new heights.
Step 2: Create a Winning TikTok Strategy
TikTok is a unique platform that requires a specific game plan to succeed. To create an effective strategy, follow these key steps:
Get to Know TikTok
Spend time exploring TikTok and familiarize yourself with the platform. Browse through the videos on the For You page, play around with editing features, filters, and effects, and immerse yourself in the latest dance crazes.
Understand the TikTok Algorithm
Stay ahead of the game by understanding how the TikTok algorithm works. Learn what factors determine video rankings and distribution, and identify common traits of trending videos. This knowledge will give you an edge in creating content that resonates with TikTok users.
Brush Up on TikTok Vocab
TikTok has its own language and digital slang. While it’s important to maintain your brand voice, understanding common phrases, emojis, and trends will help you connect with your audience and stay relevant.
Learn About Key TikTok Players
Keep an eye on popular TikTok stars and influencers. While your industry or niche may have its own power players, understanding the content and trends they engage in can provide inspiration and valuable insights for your own TikTok strategy.
Identify Your Target Audience
Know your audience before diving into content creation. While TikTok is popular among teenagers and Gen Z, a wide range of demographics use the app. Discover where your target market overlaps with TikTok users and plan your content accordingly.
Scope Out Your Competitors
Learn from your competition by observing what they are doing on TikTok. Analyze their content, engagement strategies, and audience reactions. TikTok influencers and creators can also serve as sources of inspiration for your brand.
Set Goals and Objectives
Establish clear goals for your TikTok strategy. How can TikTok help you achieve your business objectives? Use the SMART framework (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Timely) to ensure your goals are well-defined and actionable.
Plan a Content Calendar
Develop a loose content calendar to stay organized and consistent. Identify important dates, holidays, and events that align with your brand and create themes or series that guide your content creation. Embrace trends when they align with your brand and engage with your audience.
Keep the Aesthetic Authentic
TikTok thrives on authenticity. Avoid overly polished content that feels out of place on the platform. Use your phone in well-lit spaces and embrace the raw and genuine nature of TikTok. Focus on clear audio and decent lighting to enhance the viewer experience.
Step 3: Optimize Your TikTok Profile
Your TikTok profile is your digital storefront, so make sure it represents your brand effectively. Follow these tips to optimize your profile:
Be Particular About your Profile Photo
Choose a profile photo that visually connects your TikTok account to your other digital platforms. Use the same logo or colors to create consistency and reinforce your brand identity.
Keep Your Bio Short and Sweet
With only 80 characters to work with, make your bio concise and impactful. Include a call-to-action (CTA) and consider using emojis to add personality and save on character count.
Pick Your URL Wisely
Strategically choose the URL in your profile. Consider directing users to your e-commerce site, a specific landing page, your other social accounts, or a relevant blog post based on your goals.
Get Verified
A verification badge adds credibility and authenticity to your TikTok account. Request verification through the Settings and Privacy menu and follow the guidelines to increase your chances of receiving the coveted blue checkmark.
Step 4: Create Compelling Content
Creating engaging and shareable content is the key to success on TikTok. Here are some tips to help your videos stand out:
Make Sure Your Video Looks Good
Pay attention to sound and video quality. Film in well-lit spaces with clean audio. If clean audio is not possible, consider using a trending track instead of the original sound.
How-To Videos and Tutorials are Popular
Educational content is highly appreciated on TikTok. Share your expertise or reveal behind-the-scenes tips to keep viewers engaged and coming back for more.
Team Up With Other Creators
Collaborate with other TikTok creators through the Duets feature or by commissioning influencers for partnerships. Collaboration can expand your reach and attract new followers.
Go Live
Livestreaming on TikTok allows you to connect with your audience in real-time. Engage with followers, answer questions, and provide exclusive content. Live streams bring authenticity and excitement to your brand.
Use Hashtags
Hashtags help users discover your content and improve its visibility. Research trending and relevant hashtags related to your industry or niche. Incorporate them into your captions and reach a wider audience.
Step 5: Master the Art of SEO
Optimize your TikTok content using SEO strategies to increase discoverability. Here’s how:
Leverage Hashtags
Hashtags are not only for discoverability but also for TikTok’s search capabilities. Research keywords relevant to your content and include them in your captions. Treat your captions as microblogs packed with keywords.
Utilize TikTok’s Keyword and Caption Search
TikTok has improved its keyword and caption search functionality. Think strategically about how your target audience would search for content, and incorporate relevant keywords into your captions.
Step 6: Post at the Right Time
Timing is crucial for maximizing your content’s reach. While the ideal posting time varies depending on your audience and other factors, Thursdays at 7 p.m. have shown positive results. Experiment and analyze your TikTok analytics to determine the best posting times for your unique audience.
Step 7: Engage Your Audience and Grow Your Following
Engaging with your audience is essential for building a loyal following. Follow these tips to keep your audience interested and engaged:
- Utilize interactive features like live streams, polls, and questions.
- Respond to comments and questions to foster conversations.
- Like and comment on content from other TikTok accounts to build connections.
- Stay on top of trending topics within your TikTok community through social listening.
Step 8: Analyze and Optimize Your Strategy
Regularly analyze your TikTok analytics to measure the effectiveness of your strategy. Evaluate your reach, engagement metrics, and audience demographics. Use these insights to refine your content and make data-driven decisions moving forward.
Step 9: Explore TikTok’s Advertising Options
Take advantage of TikTok’s advertising options to reach a wider audience and achieve your marketing goals. Consider promoting your posts or collaborating with creators through TikTok’s Branded Content portal. Additionally, explore traditional ad placement formats available on the TikTok ad manager.
TikTok for Business offers immense opportunities for your brand to thrive on this dynamic platform. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your TikTok strategy to the next level, following these steps will set you up for success. Now, it’s time to unleash your creativity and make the most of TikTok’s immense potential!
