How to Use TikTok for Beginners

Are you new to Tiktok or want to make the most of it as a marketer? Here are our top tips to use Tiktok and to stay ahead of the game.

Share This Post

Table of Contents

So, you’ve heard whispers of TikTok, right? It’s swiftly becoming the hottest thing, leaving platforms like Instagram in its wake. Yet, there’s still a crowd out there puzzling over how to make their mark on TikTok.

This brainchild of ByteDance isn’t just another app. TikTok is a bustling space where you can unleash 15 to 60-second videos, jazzed up with music, effects, and a sprinkle of creativity. Oh, and did we mention its exploding popularity? By early 2020, the number of people joining TikTok was, well, let’s just say, staggering.

If you’re having déjà vu, thinking it’s reminiscent of Instagram Stories, you’re not alone. TikTok does carry those vibes. But the beauty of TikTok lies in its fast-paced, video-driven interface – the “For You Page”.

As soon as you dive in, a whole world of videos welcomes you, tailored to your tastes. Swipe, tap, comment, or follow – it’s a playground for your thumbs.

Getting Started on TikTok

  • Videos and Montages: Dive into the world of musical montages or short music videos. Ever thought of joining a trendy dance challenge? Now’s your chance.
  • Fun and Comedy: Relatable, Vine-esque comedy sketches? They’re big here. Create or enjoy skits and content with a comedic flair.
  • Short Tips & Expert Insights: From fitness buffs to industry pros, many use TikTok to drop nuggets of wisdom. Got expertise? Share it through quick tips or engaging voiceovers.
  • Photography: Photographers, this is your stage too. Showcase your art, share tips, and build your brand in a unique way. Take inspiration from folks like Sawyer Hartman, who’s absolutely nailing it.

In the past few years, the app has been relatively secretive about its stats. However, according to a leaked advertising pitch deck from October 2019, TikTok reports having 800 million monthly active users worldwide. As of late October 2019, TikTok was the Top Free App in the Entertainment section of the Apple App Store, and by early 2020 its user base has sky-rocketed.

Truly, TikTok is NOT that different in behaviours and UX than Instagram Stories — which may be the reason why TikTok is such a threat to Instagram these days. One thing is certain: TikTok is a fast-paced app Creativity is being democratised and soon brands will have to learn to adapt their tone of voice and visual style for the platform” shares Caoilfhionn Rose, Award-Winning Brand, and Social Strategist.

How to Use TikTok with Hashtags, Effects, and Sounds

Got TikTok? Great! Now, dive deep into its heart with the discovery tab. Click on that magnifying glass, and you’ve entered TikTok’s bustling hub where content meets trend. Here, you can sift through trending topics, scout for popular accounts, or simply let the algorithm guide your journey. Think of it as a blend of ‘Discover’ and ‘Trending’ but with a TikTok twist.

Watching mega Instagram influencers cross-pollinate Instagram content to TikTok at the beginning of lockdown highlights that polished content doesn’t wash on this platform” argues Rose.

“Smart brands will use the app to study youth culture to ensure their brand strategy aligns with the values of these potential high-spending consumers!” 

How can you use your expertise or unique USP to add value to TikTok? Create a list of valuable assets you can share with your audience.

The Power of Hashtags & Challenges

  • The Hashtag Game: Similar to other platforms, hashtags on TikTok are gold. They not only help you discover but also let you be discovered. Plus, they’re the backbone of most TikTok challenges.
  • Embrace Challenges: Challenges? They’re the lifeblood of TikTok. Top brands like the Independent and Guess have leveraged trending challenges, blending them seamlessly with their brand voice. Ready to hop onto the challenge bandwagon?
  • Augmented Reality (AR) Effects: With TikTok’s AR effects, you’re the director of your own mini-film. No need for a fancy crew. Just play around and let your creative juices flow.
  • Discovery Feed: If ever there’s a place to lose (and find) yourself, it’s the discovery feed. It’s a cauldron of inspiration, brimming with challenges, effects, and sounds. Remember to save what catches your eye. You never know when it’ll come in handy.

And before we forget, TikTok isn’t just fun and games.

The platform has shown its heart, spotlighting causes like supporting the British Red Cross and raising mental health awareness. So, while you’re planning your next viral video, remember the world beyond – TikTok’s got its heart in the right place. And now, so can you.

The New Influencer Frontier

There’s a fresh breeze blowing in the world of influencers, and its name? TikTok. The app is a treasure trove of creativity, challenging its users to step out of their comfort zone and make an impression. And it’s not just confined to high schoolers! Schools now are fostering creativity with clubs, inspiring students to collaborate on innovative content. But if you’re thinking TikTok’s just for the teens, think again.

“Starting out as a platform that many brands simply overlooked, we’ve now seen just how powerful TikTok can be” adds Rebecca Holloway, Social Media Manager & Events Coordinator

“Its influence spreads across social media and the music industry, and has fast become the home for everything, be it memes, cooking tutorials, makeup hacks, and of course we can’t forget the dancing! I believe we’re fast approaching a time where including TikTok in your brand strategy will become standard.”

rebecca holloway

Mastering TikTok: Best Practices

  • Batch Content Creation: Streamline your process by creating multiple drafts in one session. This way, you’re all set to roll out content consistently.
  • Frequency Matters: Aim to post on TikTok every day or at least on weekdays if you’re a business entity. Remember, on TikTok, the more the merrier.
  • Sound It Out: Sounds are TikTok’s language. Incorporate them into your videos to enhance discoverability. The app even lends a helping hand by suggesting matching sounds.
  • Hashtags Are Your Friends: Challenges are the beating heart of TikTok, and they ride on the back of hashtags. Opt for specific and niche tags – discoverability is sky-high on TikTok.
  • Video Duration: While 15-second videos are the sweet spot, don’t shy away from making 60-second content if you’re offering valuable insights.

A Beginner’s Recap

Taking the leap into the TikTok world can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, your initiation can be smooth. Here’s a quick recap of the essentials to kickstart your TikTok journey:

  • Understanding the Platform: Familiarize yourself with the app’s user interface. Spend time on the “For You Page” to grasp the current trends and vibes.
  • Creation and Curation: Begin with simple videos and montages. Gradually evolve by incorporating comedy, tips, or even expertise-based content.
  • Engage with Trends: Tap into the discovery section frequently. Participate in challenges, utilize trending sounds, and stay updated with popular hashtags.
  • Post Regularly: Consistency is key. Try to post content daily or at least several times a week.
  • Utilize Sounds and Hashtags: Sounds boost discoverability, and the right hashtags can exponentially increase your reach.
  • Connect and Collaborate: Engage with fellow TikTok users, comment on posts you love, and don’t hesitate to collaborate on content.
  • Learn and Evolve: Monitor your analytics, see what’s working, and keep refining your content strategy based on feedback and performance.

Embrace the fun, let loose, and remember – TikTok is as much about enjoying the process as it is about the end result. Dive in and let the creativity flow!

Ready to get started with positive impact marketing?

Set up power marketing systems build a marketing strategy that drives results, when you join our certification.

Develop an advanced set of marketing skills that drive more measurable results to any project and harness the power of psychology, purpose, storytelling, and impact to build trust in an increasingly skeptical world.

Take our certification, build your marketing plan and build your ultimate marketing toolkit.

 

new here?

Learn to market to hearts and make a bigger impact with your strategy ♥️ Join 10,500+subscribers and get one actionable tactic every Monday - plus opportunities, jobs, events and bookmarkable resources 🤘

More To Explore

Market to hearts

Turn your marketing strategy into an engine for business growth and build a community of superfans.

Become a better marketer, always putting purpose and impact first.

What is your marketing style? Unlock your superpowers 🖤