The thought of sharing on a new platform can be overwhelming but, I am here to share some TikTok tips for anyone getting started on the platform. If you’re interested in tips on how to get started with TikTok, then keep on reading.
I’ll preface this by saying that you don’t have to be on every new platform that pops up, but there is value in trying to be where your target consumers are. My top advice, give it a try but don’t let it take up all of your time.
#1 Setting up your profile
When signing up for an account, Tiktok will assign you a generic username. To change this and make it your own, tap the profile icon on the bottom right of the screen and tap the button that says “Edit Profile”. Here you’ll be able to not only make your own username but also share a little bit about you in your bio, add your website and even link your email and Instagram if you’d like.
I recommend adding a profile picture that clearly shows your face and who you are as a person. The app is all about personality and people so uploading an image vs. a logo may work best in your favor.
#2 Video Recording Tips
Aim to shoot your video vertically. Most social media networks are viewed on phones and this one is no different. Shooting in vertical will allow you to use up all of the real estate of the screen. You don’t have to shoot video inside of the app but it is preferred. You can take videos on your regular camera roll and piece them together in the app if that works best for you! Here’s a little guide for you to get familiar with the interface.
#3 Use Sounds
Sounds? Yes! This platform is all about creating using trending sounds. Here’s how you can find a sound for your next video:
If you’re scrolling through TikTok and find a video/sound you love, tap the sound at the bottom of the video and hit save to save it to your favorites for later use. If you keep seeing videos that are using the same sounds, chances are it is a viral sound. Aim to use trending sounds in order to help the visibility of your posts.
#4 Add text or voiceover to your video
This is the screen you’ll be prompted to once you’ve recorded/uploaded your video clips. You’ll see here the ability to add text, add effects, trim clips, record voiceovers (very popular!), and adjust the volume of your sounds. You can also change your sounds on the bottom left corner of the screen.
Adding text to your videos can help viewers along the storytelling journey. When adding text, you’ll be able to set the duration as well as edit how the text looks. Here’s how you can add text to your video.
#5 Be yourself
I’ve noticed that most people who succeed on the platform stay true to who they are and what they love to do. Try making creative videos around 1 or a couple of related niches. This will help tell the platform your interests so that it aligns your content with others who have the same or similar interests. An example: If you are a makeup artist, try sharing quick makeup tip videos, before and afters of your work, or even a day in your life. The possibilities are endless with the content you create for your TikTok channel. More than anything, have fun with it.
I hope you found these tips helpful and that they make you feel more at ease to start posting. Happy TikTok-ing!
