As a camera-shy, selectively introverted business owner with hearing loss, I was less than excited to jump on the TikTok train. However, I saw the platform has tremendous marketing potential, so I decided to dive in and see what the hype is all about. Fortunately, I have a guide — #Strella TikTok expert Laney Goff — who is helping me navigate the waters and answering my questions. I’m only about ten days in, but I am enjoying my time on the video-sharing app.
Have you been hesitant to give TikTok a try? It may seem intimidating at first, but if I can do it, I know anyone can. Here are a few things I’ve learned so far. I hope they’ll help you as you familiarize yourself with the platform.
TikTok Tips for Beginners
1. You Can Get a Lot of Exposure in a Short Amount of Time.
Unlike other platforms, you don’t need an enormous following to get a lot of views. My first video received over 500 views even though I only had two followers. My subsequent videos performed well, too. When folks say it’s a different platform, they are correct. I’ve never seen anything quite like it.
2. It’s Easy to Use.
I haven’t learned all the bells and whistles yet, but I have discovered many robust tools built into the app. For example, you can:
- Record and edit video clips
- Add audio and subtitles
- Create fun elements such as filters, enhancements, and voiceovers
3. Exporting Videos to Other Channels Is Simple.
TikTok allows you to save your finished video to your camera roll and repurpose it on other channels. One caveat: a TikTok watermark appears on the video, which sometimes raises a flag with the algorithm when sharing on platforms like Instagram. However, I shared a video on YouTube Shorts and received nearly 2,000 views in less than 24 hours.
4. You Can’t Edit Videos After They Have Gone Live.
One drawback to the app is the inability to edit videos once you’ve posted them. I caught a typo on the cover screen of one of my most popular posts and discovered TikTok doesn’t allow editing after the video is live.
Before you post, double-check your grammar and ensure you like the flow and other aspects of the video.
5. You Don’t Have to Be Perfect.
While that typo bothers me, I realize that TikTok is, by nature, a less-polished channel.
We don’t have to be perfect.
For that reason, I am having fun doing a variety of different things. I’ll still try to make the best video possible, but I am learning not to overthink the process.
6. As Nike Says, “Just Do It.”
Are you considering dipping your toes into TikTok’s waters? I highly recommend it! According to my expert consultant Laney, consistency is vital, so my goal is to post six out of seven days of the week. Fortunately, it doesn’t feel like “just another thing” to add to my to-do list — because it’s FUN!
I invite you to follow me on TikTok and tell me how I’m doing!
