TikTok has become quite popular and is now one of the go-to social media platforms for individuals and business owners. So many businesses have amassed immense success and viral moments on the app, which has translated into a high sales volume.
When I started on TikTok, I was scrolling through videos aimlessly, not realizing the gold mine I was sitting on. I had no idea how my business would fit in and if I could even use the app to promote my brand. I spent time following trends that didn’t align with my brand and couldn’t find my footing on the app.
Today, I have realized TikTok’s potential for business owners and how the platform can help you grow your businesses overnight and gain thousands of followers! (yes, I’ve seen it happen). I have been able to gain over 400k followers and a loyal clientele for my business.
So, to keep you from making the same mistakes I made, here are three things I wish I had known before starting TikTok.
- I wish I knew I could Build my Business on TikTok.
In the first seven months after joining TikTok, I had no direction. I was doing goofy challenges and just following the crowd. I didn’t understand what was going on on the For You Page (fyp) and didn’t see how other entrepreneurs showcased their products and services.
Due to the fast-paced nature of TikTok, it’s easy to get caught up in the vast array of interesting content and trends that you don’t even realize when someone is trying to sell you something. This app is so perfect for business owners, and I’m still hurt that I didn’t realize this sooner.
- I wish I knew how to prepare for viral moments.
Most people start on TikTok without a plan of what they would do if they went viral. Maybe some people, like me, didn’t even think they would ever go viral, so there was no course of action in place. As a business owner, virality on any platform, especially TikTok, is a blessing as it means you have millions of eyes on your page, and you must make the most of it.
I had never gone viral before TikTok, so I didn’t know I needed to have Call To Action (CTAs) in my video, and bio and pinning comments in my video were important for lead generation. Imagine the thousands of potential customers I missed out on because I had no idea how to capitalize on viral moments. Don’t make the same mistakes!
- I wish I had one-time offers for my followers.
I wish I knew the importance of providing one-time offers for my followers. A one-time offer is basically an upselling tactic where you provide an added service or perk to your audience valid for a limited time. It is an excellent way to build brand loyalty and make your audience feel valued.
An example could be offering a 20% discount on a product or service that launches at full price in a few hours or a free consultation for three days. One-time offers create a sense of rush or necessity in your audience and may just be the last push they need to click, especially when they feel like they’re getting a great deal.
TikTok can appear confusing and even scary to newbies, but I promise, it gets easier with time. Now you have all the information on what mistakes to avoid, so you are off to a better start than I was. TikTok can get more eyes on your business in one year than other social media platforms. If you are looking for more tips on growing your business on TikTok, join my 3-day TikTok business challenge and get more helpful nuggets to grow your brand.