Blog Post 1: TikTok

The Giant: TikTok



Did you know TikTok was the most downloaded app globally in 2021 and 2022? 

Hi, welcome to my blog where we will uncover more interesting facts about TikTok. I am Shania Raymond, let’s dive right in.


From Musical.ly to TikTok

This is certainly not my first time using TikTok. In fact, I have been an active user before the app was called TikTok. Not to sound like my parents but back in my days TikTok was known as Musical.ly. It was a video-based platform that combined music, video and social media. They emphasised lip-syncing to sounds and music that were available on the app and this spurred users to create lip-syncing, dancing and comedic content.  


In 2018 the company ByteDance bought Musical.ly and merged it to TikTok. We can see traces of it in TikTok today. In my experience, TikTok is extremely user-friendly. This platform is loved by millions of people and I can see why. It creates a global community and allows users to express themselves. I have seen communities be built, users supporting each other and fostering relationships.



Best Ways To Use TikTok

Majority of users find themselves engaging in content for entertainment and scrolling mindlessly on the “For You” page. To effectively use TikTok in a way that will positively impact your life can be possible.

  • Educate Yourself- TikTok has a variety of educational and informative content. Watching educational videos can increase your knowledge on many subjects. This platform can also be used to improve, develop or learn new skills. 

  • Stay Informed- It is important to be informed about what is happening around the world. TikTok can be used to stay up-to-date with current events and news both internationally and nationally.
  • Build a Community-  Those who wish to create content can use TikTok to build a community with similar interests and like-minded people. Creating a community involves collaborating with persons to foster engagement and connection.



How Can Businesses Use TikTok?

  • Boost Brand Awareness- Creating entertaining yet informative videos can put your business on the map. Showcasing a brand’s personality and values can build rapport with its audience.
  • Influencer Collaboration- Utilising influencers to promote their product or services can help businesses increase their visibility. Collaborating with influencers also helps businesses to tap into new audiences and enhance brand credibility.
  • Behind The Scenes Content- Sharing a glimpse into the daily operations and team activities can create a connection with the audience and satisfies their curiosity.


What Makes It Different?

Tiktok’s focus on short form videos and its algorithm plays a principal role in differentiating themselves from other social media platforms. TikTok thrives on quick engaging clips that captivate viewers within seconds. This algorithm curates content for individual users based on their interests and what they previously engaged in.

Pros & Cons

PROS
  • Wide reach- TikTok has an extensive user base with a core demographic of 16-25 year olds. Businesses are able to reach a diverse audience improving visibility of their brand.  
  • Creative Freedom- TikTok encourages creativity, providing a space where businesses can think outside the box, create fun, engaging content to attract customers. 
  • Engagement- This platform encourages interaction, making it easier to connect with users. Their unique algorithm pushes content that suits users which leads to higher engagement rates. 

CONS
  • Short Form Videos- Short videos can limit the complexity of the message that businesses may want to convey. 
  • Time Consuming- Creating high-quality content can be time consuming. Brainstorming ideas, executing them and following up on customer interactions and feedback require time.
  • Unpredictable Algorithm- The algorithm affects how content is distributed and seen among its users. As this algorithm evolves, it is hard to remain consistent with visibility.

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