As a self-proclaimed millennial, I am basically made up of 1/3 coffee, 1/3 anxious productivity, and 1/3 social media apps. But when it came to my introduction to TikTok, it was a slow one.
Not one to over post on my own social media channels (why is this such a common characteristic of so many marketers?), I was cautious about joining a new platform. Would the popularity and hype fizzle out shortly? Was it worth my time to find a whole new host of folks who were creating engaging, entertaining, or educational content? My infamous skepticism made me put off downloading the app for an embarrassingly long time. But it's safe to say that TikTok is here to stay and it is SO easy to find all of the above.
Just recently, my mum (Hi, Kathy) asked me, "But what is the point of TikTok?"
So here I am to break it all down for you.
So, How Does TikTok Work?
After downloading the app, you will be greeted with the home page that offers two feeds: Following & For You. TikTok's For You Page, just like Instagram, employs an endless scroll approach to continuously feed you content from some of the Internet's most creative folk. [ Pro tip: The For You Page is also known as #fyp #fypage or #fy page. ]
I was shook when I realized just how ingenious some of these people are: from creating brand new revolutionary food hacks and recipes to sharing cleaning tips and tricks to learning an ASL sign of the day, I have spent countless hours scrolling just this page.
Like someone enough to follow them? Just like any other platform, you'll get their content on the Following feed. But the #fyp is a brilliant opportunity to discover the next best hack OR to get discovered yourself.
My initial activity on the app was limited to watching TikToks sent from a friend (thanks, T!). Eventually I gained the confidence with the app's interface to explore further so I would have hilarious vids to send back. Achievement unlocked!
The 'explore' feature brings up trending hashtags like #DIY, #AlwaysLearning, and #Foodie. I have so much respect and am in awe of how people have taken to the app and learned to create engaging content with the many features it offers. Now, I guess I have to start making videos... [ we'll get into creating content in another post - stay tuned! ]
In conclusion, TikTok is more than just dance trends and sea shanties. I have learned so much (even in the marketing and content space!) and have tried many a TikTok recipe. (And learned how to store berries without them going bad?!) This app has found its way into my daily social media consumption cycle, and I ain't mad about it.
Let's connect on TikTok @yegallyway & you too, can get hilarious content sent to your inbox. Not sure where to start? After downloading, click 'explore' and search #Wee. You won't be disappointed.
Until next time,
Ally
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