Social Media Marketing: What is TikTok and Why Do I Need to Know?

TikTok is one of the fastest growing social media platforms in the world right now (with 800 million active users, and 1.5 billion downloads), where users create short videos with music, filters and other fun features. Touted as a Gen Z subculture, 41% of TikTok’s users are between 16-24, but as of March 2019, in less than 18 months the number of US adult users grew 5.5 times, which has led many brands to start jumping into the platform. Or, they’re at least asking themselves – should we? Having a TikTok strategy in place creates space to capitalize on trends, create platform-specific content and understand where customers intersect with TikTok audiences – many of which are potential customers. Advertising on TikTok is still in its infancy with a self-serve ad platform but we are sure to see growth there. The platform is also testing shoppable video posts. Sponsored hashtag challenges give brands an opportunity to engage their communities as well. More to come here!

*Note: you do NOT need the app to view content

8 Ways to Brands are Using TikTok:

1. Product Highlight / Reviews

2. How-To Videos

3. Outfit Hauls

4. Style Tips

5. Self Care Tips

6. Hair / Makeup Tutorials

7. TikTok “trends” i.e. dances, songs, etc.

8. Recipes, Book Club, Workouts, etc.

Need Inspo? Here are 5 Brands Crushing TikTok:

1. Elf Cosmetics

2. Sephora

3. The Washington Post

4. Chipotle

5. Vineyard Vines