TikTok, the short video-sharing app that has taken social media by storm, is growing faster than Instagram or Snapchat ever did and already counts over 500 million users worldwide. That’s half of the population of the United States, if you can believe it!
If you’re not one of those users yet, you’re missing out on a real opportunity to build your personal brand and make money doing it. Check out these 10 ways to make money from TikTok below to get started today!
How to make money from TikTok
Along with this immense popularity comes opportunity, both good and bad – you can use TikTok to increase your brand awareness and grow your business, but you can also use it to manipulate people and make money in negative ways.
Here are 11 ways to make money from TikTok, so you can choose the path that’s right for you!
1. Become an Influencer
If you’re already active on social media and have a strong following, becoming an influencer might be easier than you think.
There are many companies that work with influencers, providing them with brand deals in exchange for promoting them in their posts. Companies will provide new products for free for you to try out so that you can give your honest feedback about it and share your experiences with others.
There are a variety of companies out there looking for TikTokers and social media influencers to become brand ambassadors. As an ambassador, you’ll be able to post branded content on your own social media accounts as well as videos on TikTok.
2. Drive traffic from other platforms
One of the easiest ways to start monetizing your TikTok channel is by driving traffic from other platforms, like Instagram.
Like Facebook, Instagram allows businesses and brands to create sponsored posts on their profiles; when you post something particularly relevant, a business might sponsor it.
Even if you’re not interested in directly linking your TikTok account with an existing social media presence, simply posting relevant content and hashtags can help increase your exposure—which could in turn attract more followers or potential sponsors.
3. Monetize through YouTube
One easy way for teens to make money from TikTok is to use their YouTube channel. Upload videos of your performance and link them back to your TikTok profile or directly in your bio.
YouTube will then compensate you with a cut of its AdSense revenue, which is based on views, likes, shares, comments and other engagements. If you are under 18 years old, always ask a parent or guardian for permission before uploading content online.
4. Join the TikTok creator fund
TikTok’s creator fund is an excellent way for artists who’ve already made a name for themselves on other platforms, like Instagram or YouTube, to take their visual artistry and make some quick cash.
The program pays $1 million USD in monthly installments over a one-year period. To apply, upload your best video(s) that showcase what you can do with TikTok content creation tools.
5. Sell merchandise to TikTok users
Users on TikTok can purchase merchandise using their Amazon and PayPal accounts. Start by creating a store on Shopify and find products your audience wants. Connect your bank account or Amazon account and transfer inventory when you’re ready.
No distribution fees, no inventory costs, nothing extra—just profits. If you don’t want to deal with shipping, but still want a cut of sales, try selling t-shirts through Spreadshirt instead.
6. Create sponsored contents
A lot of famous YouTubers and TikTokers are making money by creating sponsored contents. If you can make a top-quality content then companies will approach you for creating such contents.
It’s not too difficult as it seems because all you need is research, good quality videos, and a strong influence on your followers.
7. Make money from TiKTok Ads
You can make money from TiKTok by uploading new videos and telling people to watch them. You will then be paid for each view.
The more people who watch your video, a greater number of viewers you’ll have, and as a result, you’ll make more money.
8. Grow and sell TikTok accounts
Buying and selling TikTok accounts is all about leverage, and nothing is better at giving you a powerful position on this platform than a large audience.
The more followers you have—and especially if they’re targeted followers (tweens, teens, 20-somethings, etc.)—the higher your potential asking price.
9. Place affiliate links
When your audience is as active and engaged on TikTok, they’re a great place to spread some of your affiliate links. This method is perfect for any blogger looking to monetize their audience using products or services other than their own, so be sure you have a couple different options in mind.
It’s important not only that you match your target market, but also that you understand how well each product works within TikTok itself.
Affiliate marketing means that when you link a product in your video and it gets purchased, you earn a commission. The most popular affiliate programs out there are Amazon and iTunes.
10. Become a brand ambassador
With hundreds of millions of users and one billion new video views a day, TikTok is a major platform for influencers. If you have some pretty sweet dance moves, how about getting paid for them? There are a variety of companies out there looking for TikTokers and social media influencers to become brand ambassadors.
As an ambassador, you’ll be able to post branded content on your TikTok account.
11. Join TikTok's Creator marketplace
One of TikTok’s most powerful tools for all users is its Creator marketplace, where content creators can make money off their creations. If you have a special talent, there’s a good chance that other people on your platform will want to see what you have to offer.
In fact, just by being yourself and showcasing your talent, you could attract potential fans who will ultimately start throwing some cash your way.
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