Something SUPER extraordinary was launched in 2016—TikTok. With over 3.5 billion downloads worldwide, TikTok is one of the world’s most popular and growing social media platforms (following Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp and Instagram). Its use evolves daily, so keeping up with the latest news and trends is essential.
TikTok is a fast-paced platform that many brands use to reach audiences and deliver messages quickly. It’s a great way to provide value by teaching your ideal audience without sounding overly promotional. In fact, the more fun, creative and on-trend you are, the more success you’ll experience.
Yes, TikTok is most popular among younger generations, but it’s also one of the best places to see and understand specific social and cultural sentiments. For example, much of the app’s growth happened during the COVID-19 pandemic. It became a platform where people shared real, personal stories bringing communities together.
The TikTok community is about so much more than just entertaining videos. It’s a space where brands can continue to build trust with their audience, bring joy and connect with people in different ways. Gone are the days of one-size-fits-all.
What you will get on your feed will be different to your child, because you influence the content shared based on your searches and the oh so clever algorithm.
Here are a few best practices to note:
Hook, hook, hook your audience
As mentioned, TikTok moves fast. So, you need to grab a viewer’s attention immediately to avoid losing them. Ideally, your content’s first second or two should reel in your intended audience. Help your audience quickly see and understand what your video is about and why they should keep watching.
Comments are gold…
TikTok’s algorithm favours comments, so keep that in mind when posting. Create content that is worth commenting on so that more people will be able to see your videos. Just ask. Ask your audience for suggestions. This not only pleases the algorithm but also creates an engaged community around your content and brand.
…so reply to comments and allow them to build your brand
High interaction from you with your audience will help them feel loved and seen by you. This will help with engagement statistics and increase your brand’s awareness. Many people use their comments to create more TikToks. Audience-requested videos are a great way to keep producing content your audience wants to see.
Learn from your successes (and mistakes)
Pay attention to your analytics. TikTok analytics will help you understand what works and what doesn’t. It’s essential to experiment and see what performs best. However, if a specific strategy doesn’t go viral, don’t give up too quickly. The most important thing is making content you are passionate about. It’s not always about numbers.
Lastly, TikTok is not a town hall meeting. It’s a space for hyper-personal stories that people can relate to. That inspires and brings joy. TikTok has paved the way for new kinds of connection and exploration. So, develop that strategy, create that account, shoot that video, say those words and connect with people in ways that aren’t possible with traditional marketing techniques.
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