TikTok isn’t just for dance trends and viral challenges.
With over a billion active users, TikTok gives businesses of all sizes an opportunity to reach a massively engaged audience, attract new business opportunities…and even go viral!
Why does TikTok work so well for small businesses?
The Tiktok algorithm is designed to promote creative that is highly engaging (measured by watch time, interaction and number of comments, likes and shares).
When you get it right, the Tiktok algorithm rewards you by serving the video out to a much larger audience (for free) than any other platform. That means even if you’re a new account with very few followers, your Tiktoks can still reach thousands or even millions(!) of potential customers.
With a heavy focus on authentic, short-form video, this levels the playing field for small businesses giving clever, creative and resourceful SME’s a chance against to compete against the big budgets of the large brands.
TikTok should be a part of your business’ marketing strategy as it opens the door to an almost limitless worldwide market to grow your brand, demonstrate your expertise and ultimately…make more sales.
Why TikTok Is Perfect for Small Businesses
TikTok’s approach to content discovery makes the ideal platform for small businesses.
Unlike other social media marketing sites where it can take a long time to build a following in order to make an impact, TikTok’s algorithm pushes quality and engaging content to the top of it’s feed, regardless of who created it.
This means a small Adelaide café can trend nationally by sharing behind-the-scenes latte art videos or a local personal trainer can go viral with simple at-home workouts.
The potential reach is massive, the audience is engaged, and the costs of entry are low.
And the opportunities for local Adelaide business enormous with only 26% of marketers saying they’re using TikTok.
But TikTok isn’t just about numbers – it’s about connection.
The short, authentic videos let you tell your story, showcase your products and build trust with your audience.
5 Reasons Small Businesses Should Embrace TikTok
1. Reach a Massive Audience
TikTok has over a billion active users worldwide, with a significant portion aged 18-34.
This means your potential customers are already scrolling through their ‘For You’ page, waiting to discover businesses like yours.
Whether you’re targeting a niche market or a broader audience, TikTok gives you the opportunity to expand your reach like never before.
2. Cost-Effective Advertising
Organic growth on TikTok is one of the platform’s most powerful benefits. Small businesses can create engaging content without spending a dollar on ads.
When you’re ready to invest, TikTok’s advertising options, like In-Feed and Spark ads, are affordable and highly targeted, ensuring your dollars go further.
3. Showcase Personality and Build Trust
TikTok’s authentic vibe allows businesses to humanise their brand.
You don’t need polished, high-budget videos to succeed – raw, real, and relatable content often performs better.
Customers are more likely to trust and engage with businesses that show their personality.
4. Tap into Trends for Viral Growth
Whether it’s a hashtag, sound, or challenge, TikTok trends are a great place to start to get instant visibility.
By jumping on these trends, your business can ride the wave of viral content and get noticed by thousands (or even millions) of potential customers.
5. Boost Sales and Conversions
TikTok isn’t just for brand awareness, it can also drive sales.
With tools like clickable links, product showcases, and integrated shopping features, TikTok makes it easy for viewers to move from curious scrollers to paying customers.
Types of Businesses Thriving on TikTok
TikTok’s huge reach and short videos means there’s room for every type of business to take advantage of the platform.
Here are some examples of industries finding success:
- Cafes and Restaurants: Share recipes, behind-the-scenes clips, and customer reactions to your dishes.
- Fitness and Wellness: Post quick workout tips, tutorials, or motivational content.
- Retail and E-commerce: Highlight products, run giveaways, and showcase customer testimonials.
- Professional Services: Share bite-sized advice or answer FAQs in creative ways like these Adelaide criminal lawyers do on their popular Tiktok account
- Real estate companies: House walk-throughs and home staging inspiration
- Creative Fields: Showing the process of painting, baking, or crafting and inviting viewers into your world.
- Home improvement: Landscaping companies showing backyard transformations and ‘before/after’ style videos get massive interaction and reach.
How to Get Started with TikTok Marketing
Ready to get stuck in making your first Tiktok? Here’s our quick guide to get you started:
Step 1: Understand the Platform
Spend time on TikTok to see what’s trending and what’s getting the types of content that is getting the most engagement!
Watch videos in your niche and learn what engages your target audience.
Familiarise yourself with features like sounds, effects, and hashtags.
Step 2: Look at Trends and Competitors
Research what’s working for similar businesses.
Take note of trending sounds, challenges, and video styles that align with your brand.
Competitor analysis can inspire your own creative ideas.
Step 3: Start Small and Be Authentic
Your first video doesn’t have to be perfect.
Whether it’s a behind-the-scenes clip, a quick tip, or a playful look at your products, just start creating.
TikTok rewards authenticity over polish, so focus on being real and relatable.
If you’re struggling for ideas, head over to Chat GPT and ask it to come up with Tiktok content ideas for your business.
It can even write the script for you if you need some help with the overall direction and wording!
Step 4: Engage with Your Audience
Reply to any comment you get, ask questions, and join conversations.
Building a community on TikTok is as important as creating great content. The engagement in comments can help boost the performance of any Tiktok.
Step 5: Experiment with TikTok Ads
Once you’ve got the hang of organic content, consider running ads.
Start with simple in-feed ads in your local area to boost visibility and target your ideal audience.
Filming Tips for TikTok Success
Creating engaging TikTok content doesn’t require a fancy camera or a professional crew.
All you need is an iPhone!
With these simple tips, you can produce videos that capture attention and deliver results:
- Start with a Strong Hook
The first 3 seconds of your video are vital. Begin with a question, a bold statement or something visually striking to grab attention immediately.For example, “Did you know this one tip can double your sales?” - Shoot Vertically
TikTok is designed for vertical videos, so make sure to use your phone in portrait mode for the best viewer experience. - Natural Lighting is Key
Bright, natural light makes a huge difference in video quality. Film outside (in the shade) or near windows during the day or invest in a simple ring light for consistent brightness. - Keep It Short and Engaging
TikTok videos can be up to 10 minutes long, but shorter videos often perform better. A 2021 study found that 9-second TikToks get the most views and engagement so if you’ve got longer content, break it into a series of bite-sized videos for maximum impact. - Use Captions and Text Overlays
Many users watch videos without sound, so include captions to ensure your message is clear. Highlight key points with bold, on-screen text to reinforce your message. - Incorporate Trending Sounds
Sounds are a big part of TikTok’s algorithm. Explore the trending sounds and see how they can align with your business style and messaging. - Test Different Styles
Experiment with various video formats like tutorials, behind-the-scenes clips, customer stories or product showcases. Pay attention to what resonates with your audience and refine your Tiktok strategy accordingly.
How to Edit Tiktok’s Like a Pro
You don’t need expensive editing software to edit your TikTok’s!
You can either download Capcut or use Tiktok’s in-app editing tools to edit and create your Tiktok.
- Cut to the Chase
Trim unnecessary parts of your video. Every second counts, so ensure the content flows smoothly and stays engaging. - Use Filters and Effects
TikTok offers an array of filters and effects. Use these sparingly to enhance your content and keep it aligned with your brand aesthetic. - Add Music and Sounds
Use TikTok’s extensive music library to add background tracks that complement your video. Sync your cuts and transitions to the beat for a polished look. - Use Auto-Captions for Accessibility and Engagement
TikTok and Capcut’s built-in auto-captioning feature makes your content more inclusive for viewers who are hard of hearing or prefer to watch without sound. It also boosts engagement by ensuring your message is clear, even when the sound is off.
Tiktok Post-Production Tips
- Optimise Your Captions
Write short, intriguing captions that encourage interaction, like asking a question or inviting viewers to share their thoughts. - Include Relevant Hashtags
Use a mix of trending and niche hashtags to increase discoverability. For example, #SmallBusinessTikTok and #AdelaideCafe are great for local businesses. - Post at Optimal Times
Analyse your audience’s behaviour to determine the best times to post. Start with popular TikTok posting times, such as evenings, and adjust based on engagement metrics. - Engage After Posting
Once your video is live, don’t forget the comments! Spend time engaging with comments and replying to questions as this can boost the video’s engagement and let you build connections with your audience.
Over to you
TikTok is more than just another social media app.
It’s a powerful tool for small businesses looking to grow their audience, build trust and generate more sales.
Its unique mix of creativity, authenticity and reach makes it an valuable platform in today’s marketing landscape for small business.
So what are you waiting for?
Create an account and start making Tiktoks!
