Tik Tok, the so-called, ‘Gen-Z App’ is the new in trend social media platform for not only younger societal members but for the Millenials and some Boomers as well. From the ‘Woah’ dance challenge to KPop challenges to the ‘Album Cover’ Challenge, Tik Tok is definitely the go-to platform for bite-sized and entertaining content, as well as emerging sound trends. But, why did this video-based platform suddenly take the centre-stage in 2020?
Where Did It All Start?
TikTok, known as Douyin (抖音) in its home market, was launched in China in September 2016. It was pushed out globally as TikTok the following year (TikTok Revenue and Usage Statistics 2021, Business of Apps). One of the main reasons TikTok took fire in 2020, was due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. As everyone stayed and worked at home for most of the time, TikTok was the perfect platform for people to stay connected to the outer world. Emerging trends within the platform were engaging and yet simple to do and follow.
The Technicalities of TikTok
The format of the app is also addictive and is able to keep you engaged for as long as 3 hours. With the format of endless scrolling, after each video, a new video suited to your interest will be played. Each video is also short, simple and concise, with the longest span of a video now being 2 minutes, you are able to absorb plenty of information within a few seconds. Your entertainment relief plan is definitely filled with authentic and original content.
TikTok is also a breeze for content creators, as the apps provide plenty of weird and funny filters as well as essential editing tools to cater to your video creation needs. A wild and high-quality video can instantly be made within 10 minutes. You can literally post content every hour, hence, it is a great platform for content creators aiming to get messages across fast!
Millennials’ and Generation Z’s App?
With a simple format and the ability to produce new content fast, many new creators and members of society have picked up this platform to express thoughts and opinions regarding issues and various topics. With the algorithm of the app having the ability to reach a wide audience, many people have chosen TikTok to share their insights and opinions on social issues or sharing the habits of their daily lives, in hopes of finding like-minded people. TikTok is also a great platform to practice your creativity and allow yourself to showcase your original colour.
Now, the real question has arrived. Should you or your brand jump on this bandwagon as well?
Well, if your target audience consists of millennials and generation z, we don’t see why not.
But why and how should you utilise TikTok?
Enhances Brand Awareness
With the essential video editing tools already available on the app, you are able to create simple videos to increase your brand awareness with the younger audience. Your video is also able to reach a wider audience with specific hashtags. TikTok videos can also be shared on other social platforms like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to enlighten your followers on other platforms.
Educate and Encourage Upskilling
Posting product tutorials, tips and tricks to educate your followers regarding your products and services is a great way to educate product usage to the highest level. This not only encourages re-purchase but establishes a line of encouragement for your followers to view your videos for the latest updates and insights.
Instilling Trust & Mutual Understanding
Behind-the-scene videos are also able to show your followers what truly went down in the process of creating the product you have today. This way, your followers are able to understand your hardships and build a mutual understanding of trust for your products and brand messages. You could also share your insights or opinions on social issues to let your followers understand where you stand in order to better contribute to the society.
Video creations suitable for business and branding include:
- Product and Service Tutorials
- Product and Service Showcasing
- Short and Concise Behind-the-Scenes Videos
- Tips & Tricks Surrounding Your Line of Work
- Your Take on Trending Challenges and Video Formats
- Your Opinions on Social Issues and Topics