26 Mar Navigating TikTok’s Changing Landscape: Tips for Businesses to Stay Relevant

By Jenna Soules

TikTok’s dynamics have been a topic of controversy, sparking outrage and political division across the nation, but those even who wish to remain impartial face rising concerns about their business accounts and marketing efforts on this platform. Recent events have sent shockwaves through the business community, creating an urgent need to adapt to ensure our businesses remain relevant online. So, should your organization be on TikTok? Should you continue to invest time/energy into this platform? There are so many users on the platform, so could you really miss that market if you decide to not partake?

TikTok’s Most Concerning Changes:

Potential Ban in the US: The looming prospect of a TikTok ban in the US due to legislative actions has left businesses grappling with uncertainty. While we refrain from delving into political intricacies, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential implications for brands relying on the platform for marketing and outreach. The uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the US underscores the need for businesses to evaluate their reliance on the platform and strategize accordingly.

Music Restrictions: TikTok experienced a significant loss when music from many top artists was removed by Universal Music Group. This unexpected move has caused disruptions in the platform’s music-based algorithm, leading to muted audios in previously viral videos. For brands that relied on leveraging trending sounds to enhance their content’s visibility and engagement, this development poses a significant challenge.

Effects of These Changes on Businesses

Responding to this uncertainty surrounding TikTok, creators are starting to explore alternative avenues to diversify their business content and marketing efforts. Building resiliency in our brands means being capable of adapting to shifting landscapes. For businesses heavily invested in TikTok, diversifying strategies beyond the platform can lower risks without hastily withdrawing from a successful method of connecting with our audience. By adopting a proactive stance, businesses are positioning themselves to navigate uncertainties with confidence.

Top 3 Tips for Business Owners:

1. Include Other Marketing Channels: Relying solely on TikTok for brand visibility can be risky, especially in light of recent developments. Businesses should explore other social media platforms and marketing channels to diversify their outreach efforts and reduce dependency on a single platform. By diversifying their marketing channels, businesses can lower the risks of platform disruptions and reach a broader audience at the same time.
2. Focus on Creating Authentic Content: Despite current uncertainties, authenticity will always remain a cornerstone of effective marketing. Businesses should focus on creating a perception of authenticity that connects with their audience. By building genuine connections with the target audience, businesses cultivate loyalty and trust, which outlasts trends, and stands out in the shifting landscape of the social media arena.
3. Stay Informed, Stay Flexible: The digital world is ever-changing, requiring our businesses to stay informed and agile while attempting to connect with our audience. By keeping up with the latest developments within the TikTok ecosystem and other platforms as well, businesses can adapt strategies and tactics to navigate evolving trends successfully.

As TikTok undergoes changes, businesses can take on a proactive stance and lay the groundwork for flexibility in our content creation. Through viewing social media as a continuously changing method of communication, we can anticipate these shifts and safely guide our businesses or clients through necessary transitions. With the right strategy, our businesses can continue to thrive and connect with young generations in an ever-changing digital landscape.