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TikTok Selling Strategies That Drive Real Results

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11/17/2025

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Key highlights:

  • TikTok has evolved from a social app to a major digital marketplace, with 82.2 million daily users in the US discovering and shopping for products.

  • Seventy percent of users find new brands on TikTok, and three in four say they’re likely to buy something while using the app.

  • With 3 billion monthly visitors worldwide, it’s a powerful channel for reaching Gen Z and early Millennials (ages 18–34).

  • With the right selling tools and strategy, brands can reach new audiences and strengthen relationships with existing customers.


TikTok is more than a social media tool; it's an online community that’s quickly changing how we share, discover, and watch content online. 

But it’s not all dance challenges, funny content, and life hacks.

TikTok Shop has revolutionized the way people shop and buy on social media, allowing businesses to extend their digital storefront to an entirely new audience across the globe.

The numbers tell the story: TikTok's influence is apparent, with over 5 billion downloads worldwide and US adults spending nearly an hour daily on the platform. Its reach extends across 160 countries, making it a powerful tool for reaching diverse audiences worldwide.

While other platforms push perfectly edited content, TikTok embraces real, unfiltered moments. This shift toward authenticity has sparked a cultural change in social media, where being genuine matters more than being perfect.

And now with the growing popularity of TikTok’s shopping feature, TikTok Shop, the platform is set to help creators and businesses sell products directly to users, without ever leaving the app.

What is TikTok Shop?

TikTok Shop is an ecommerce feature that’s integrated in TikTok, allowing brands, businesses, and creators to sell products directly to users on the app. Since TikTok Shop launched in the US in September 2023, the platform has added many new tools for businesses to utilize when building out their ecommerce ecosystem. 

It starts with the seamless shopping experience while scrolling. Users have the ability to discover and purchase items with just a few taps, which can be through shoppable videos, LIVE streams, and a dedicated Shop tab in the app. If they see a product and want to learn more about it, they’re able to do so with little to no friction. 

TikTok Shop assists in educating about products and closing a sale. In fact, it’s estimated that 70% of TikTok users discover new brands and products on TikTok, and nearly 3 in 4 TikTok users are likely to buy something while using the app. 

Businesses that leverage TikTok’s robust algorithm can use TikTok Shop as an extension of their overall ecommerce strategy, reaching new audiences and demographics that may have never interacted with brands and their products before.

Ebook: Win Customers Across Every Channel

Get expert insights on data, branding, and marketing strategies to grow sales on every major ecommerce channel.

Build a TikTok Marketing Strategy

Creators and influencers are rewriting the rules of social commerce, outpacing even giants like Apple and Nike.

influencer stats

In fact, more than six in ten US social shoppers have bought something because of creator content, with TikTok being a powerful force in that surge.

social media purchases

Social commerce is a fundamental shift in how consumers discover and purchase products. TikTok's unique algorithm, favoring fresh content and creators, presents a massive opportunity for brands to connect with a highly engaged audience.

Using varied content types as a springboard, marketers are finding unique ways to promote products for everything from perfumes to household cleaners.

Unlike other social commerce platforms, TikTok offers unparalleled reach and a level playing field for businesses of all sizes.

This guide will show you how to use TikTok's features — from viral trends to diverse content formats — to build a winning marketing strategy and drive measurable results.

Brand your TikTok account.

Your TikTok profile functions as a storefront. Keep it consistent, clear, and recognizable.

Key elements to refine:

  • Username: Use the same handle across platforms so customers can find you easily (for example, if your brand is "Sweet Dreams Bakery" on Facebook, use @sweetdreamsbakery or @sweetdreams on TikTok).

  • Profile photo: Choose a clean, recognizable logo that’s legible even as a small thumbnail.

  • Bio: Use your 80 characters to say what you do and how you help. “Fresh-baked happiness delivered | NYC” tells your story quickly.

  • Link: Add a dedicated landing page or link tool so you can track TikTok-driven traffic.

Review your profile monthly to ensure it aligns with your brand and business goals. Consistent, simple branding builds trust and helps viewers quickly understand who you are.

Research and define your audience.

Finding your audience on TikTok starts with understanding who's most likely to connect with your business. While TikTok was initially popular with teens, it's now attracting young adults and early career professionals aged 25–34 (32%) and inching its way into the 35–44-year-old Gen X-er (16%).

Before creating content, start with your existing customers and consider:

  1. Which age groups need your product/service?

  2. Where are they located?

  3. What motivates their purchasing decisions?

  4. What interests connect to your brand?

Use hashtags to research your niche. Study top-performing TikTok videos to see what topics resonate and how creators communicate. TikTok users value authenticity, so focus on showing expertise and personality rather than selling directly.

To measure if you're reaching the right people, focus on these KPIs:

  1. Are viewers commenting and sharing?

  2. Are users viewing your profile page?

  3. Do profile visits lead to website clicks?

  4. Is your content getting saved for later?

Test, track, refine — audience clarity helps you stay relevant as trends shift.

Perform a competitive audit.

Studying competitors helps you understand what works, what doesn’t, and where opportunities exist.

Look at:

  • Content style: How they film, caption, and edit

  • Posting patterns: When and how often they show up

  • Engagement: Ratio of views to followers; quality of comments and shares

  • Community management: How they respond to viewers

Identify gaps they’re missing — unanswered questions, under-covered topics, or underserved audiences. Track your observations in a simple spreadsheet to spot patterns. 

But don't just copy what works for others. Use these insights to develop content that fills market gaps while showcasing your unique business strengths.

Set goals that align with your business.

Setting clear goals for your TikTok strategy helps measure success and adjust your approach when needed.

Start with your primary business objective. 

Are you looking to build brand awareness? Prioritize reach and engagement metrics. Do you want to increase sales? Focus on conversion-based goals.

Setting S.M.A.R.T. goals (specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound) enables you to focus on the tasks that will most significantly improve your bottom line.

Example: Achieve a 6% engagement rate by posting four trending audio videos weekly for the next three months.

Broken down, it reads like this:

  • Specific: Increase TikTok engagement rate through trending audio content.

  • Measurable: Target 6% engagement rate (likes + comments + shares / total views).

  • Achievable: Post 4 videos weekly using current trending sounds.

  • Relevant: Higher engagement increases reach and brand visibility.

  • Time-bound: Achieve this goal within three months (by March 9, 2025).

Refined S.M.A.R.T. Goal: Increase TikTok engagement rate to 6% by March 9, 2025, by posting four weekly videos using trending audio, measured through the platform's analytics dashboard.

Remember: TikTok favors authentic, entertaining content. Set goals that encourage creativity while meeting business needs. Start small, test different approaches, and scale what works.

Develop a TikTok content strategy.

Think about why people open TikTok: entertainment, knowledge, and connection. Spend time on the For You page to understand what makes your target audience stop scrolling.

A balanced content plan might include:

  • Quick tips or industry insights

  • Trend-based videos

  • Behind-the-scenes moments

  • Customer Q&As

  • Product demos or storytelling-style content

TikTok rewards watch time, so aim for videos viewers want to finish. Authentic, low-polish footage often performs better than overly produced clips.

Use trending audio selectively — only when it fits your message or brand tone. And monitor your metrics to see which themes, hooks, and formats drive most of your engagement.

Start with two to three posts per week, then scale up or refine based on what your audience responds to.

Post regularly and schedule your posts.

Showing up regularly on TikTok matters more than creating the perfect video. When your audience knows they can count on you for fresh content, they're more likely to follow and engage with your brand.

TikTok's scheduling feature makes consistent posting much more manageable. Instead of scrambling to post content daily, you can set aside a few hours each week to plan and schedule your videos. This approach helps maintain quality while reaching viewers when they're most active.

Here's a practical weekly schedule that works well for most businesses:

  • Monday: 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.

  • Tuesday: 7 a.m. and 4 p.m.

  • Wednesday: 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

  • Thursday: 8 a.m. and 2 p.m.

  • Friday: 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.

  • Weekend: One post per day at noon.

To find your best posting times, check your TikTok analytics to see when your followers are most active. Start with this schedule, then adjust based on your data after a few weeks.

Track performance through TikTok analytics.

TikTok's built-in analytics dashboard provides valuable data about your account's performance. Once you switch to a Business or Creator account, you can access these insights by navigating to your profile settings and tapping "Analytics."

The primary metrics fall into three key areas:

Content performance

Your video views tell an essential story. Look beyond total views to understand how long people watch your content — this helps gauge whether your videos keep attention. 

The completion rate matters because TikTok's algorithm favors videos that viewers finish watching. Viewers engaging through likes, comments and shares signal that your content resonates with them.

Audience insights

Track follower growth patterns to spot which content drives new followers. The analytics show when your audience is most active, helping you post at optimal times. 

Understanding viewer demographics like age, location and interests enables you to create more targeted content.

Account overview

Your profile visits and video watch time depict overall account health. Rising numbers typically indicate growing brand awareness, while declining metrics might signal a need to refresh your content strategy.

Several third-party tools can supplement TikTok's native analytics:

Keep in mind that metrics give you only part of the picture. Consider these numbers alongside your business goals and audience feedback to develop a complete understanding of your TikTok performance.

Experiment and refine.

Testing different approaches on TikTok helps you understand what truly works for your business. Think of it like trying different recipes — experimentation guides you to the perfect combination of ingredients.

Try experimenting with: 

  • Different posting times

  • Varying hooks or video lengths

  • Alternative music or sound choices

  • Content themes or formats

Run A/B tests by changing one variable at a time, and track results in a simple spreadsheet. Pay close attention to comments — qualitative feedback often reveals why something resonated.

Blend proven formats with fresh experiments so your content stays effective and engaging. TikTok evolves quickly, so continuous iteration ensures your strategy grows with the platform.

How to sell on TikTok

Now that you’ve identified your audience and built a content framework, here’s how to increase visibility and start generating sales

TikTok for Business — a free app that integrates with your storefront — lets you sync your BigCommerce catalog, run dynamic ads and tap into TikTok’s highly engaged audience. Once connected, you can also sell through TikTok Shop, where users browse and purchase natively in-app.

These tools set the foundation. The eight steps below help you solidify your TikTok sales strategy and maximize ROI.

1. Create your account.

Download the TikTok app, create a dedicated business account and get familiar with the platform. Choose a username consistent across channels, then add a profile photo, short bio and links to Instagram or YouTube for easy navigation.

2. Switch your account to a "Business" account.

Starting on TikTok automatically gives you a Personal account, which is great for general users and creators. 

However, switching to Business unlocks valuable features that help you grow your brand and measure success through data. Business profiles unlock analytics, performance tracking, external links and contact details. These insights help you understand what content resonates and build a more effective presence.

Understanding these differences helps you choose the right account type based on your goals. Personal accounts work for individual expression, while Business accounts deliver the insights needed to build a compelling presence.

3. Create content.

TikTok welcomes authentic content that captures viewers instantly. Unlike Instagram's polished aesthetic, natural and spontaneous videos often perform better on this platform.

Feeling stuck? Browse your For You page to spark ideas. Grab paper and write down everything that comes to mind — even less promising concepts might lead to brilliant ones.

Use trending audio, quick tutorials, behind-the-scenes moments or unboxings to add personality. TikTok’s built-in editing tools make it simple to experiment with transitions and music. If you need inspiration, browse the TikTok for Business Inspiration Center.

4. Engage with your audience.

The whole point of a social media app is to be social.

Engage meaningfully by responding to comments, joining viral challenges, and hosting live sessions. 

Pay attention to feedback beneath your videos — it reveals what content your viewers want next. When you respond thoughtfully, followers become loyal community members who trust your brand. 

Remember, every comment presents an opportunity to deepen connections and showcase your brand's personality.

5. Utilize influencer marketing.

Considering nearly half of all consumers (49%) make purchases once a month because of influencer marketing, this is one marketing tactic you want to include in your TikTok strategy.

Influencers, especially those who genuinely match your company's values and style, can help you reach new customers and dramatically grow your brand awareness. Their authentic voices help build credibility with followers who trust their recommendations.

But remember to look for creators with strong engagement, not just large followings.

Structure your partnerships thoughtfully. Consider offering products for honest reviews, creating special discount codes, or setting up commission-based programs where partners earn a percentage of sales. 

Track campaign performance through engagement, traffic and conversions so you know what’s working. Stay flexible and adjust your approach based on what works. Strong partnerships often grow naturally over time when both sides communicate openly and focus on creating value for their audiences.

6. Promote user-generated content (UGC).

“TikTok Made Me Buy It” exists for a reason. When customers share genuine videos featuring your products, it often drives more trust and interest than brand-produced ads.

Encourage this by making it easy for shoppers to join in. Launch a simple hashtag challenge, ask customers to show how they use your product, or offer a small reward for creative submissions. You can then reshare the best videos on your own channel or highlight them on your product pages.

Examples of easy, effective UGC ideas include:

  • Quick before-and-after transformations

  • “First impressions” or unboxing clips

  • Simple tutorials or “three ways to use this” videos

The goal is authenticity, not polish. Everyday customers demonstrating real results can inspire new buyers far more than highly produced content.

7. Explore other selling options on TikTok.

Beyond organic content, leverage TikTok’s commerce tools:

  • TikTok Shop adds a shoppable tab directly to your profile.

  • Shoppable videos let you tag products within your content.

  • Live shopping blends entertainment with real-time selling and Q&A.

Some brands see major success — one beauty brand earned $100,000 during an eight-hour livestream. TikTok’s AI tools, including Symphony Creative Studio, also help you produce clips without advanced editing skills.

8. Utilize the TikTok Shop Seller Center.

The TikTok Business Learning Center provides templates, training, case studies and tools like TikTok Pixel for tracking engagement and conversions. Regular updates help keep your strategy fresh so you can continue refining your marketing approachs

Types of Ads on TikTok

TikTok's advertising landscape stands out in social media, offering businesses unique ways to reach viewers who spend hours scrolling through their feeds.

What makes its ad types particularly powerful is how they tap into TikTok's distinct culture of creativity and authenticity. Rather than interrupting the user experience, successful ads become part of the conversation, inspiring engagement through genuine connections.

By experimenting with different formats and tracking performance, brands can discover which strategies resonate most effectively with their audience.

1. In-feed ads.

These native video ads appear between organic content as users scroll. The key is authenticity — content that looks like it belongs in the feed performs best.

  • Keep videos under 15 seconds for maximum engagement, though TikTok allows up to 60 seconds.

  • Use trending music, captions, and relatable scenarios.

  • Add shopping links to convert interest into sales.

Track metrics such as engagement (likes, comments, shares), view duration, click rates, and conversions to measure effectiveness.

2. Brand takeover.

Want to grab attention instantly? Brand takeover ads grab users’ attention the moment they open the app, filling the entire screen with bold visuals. 

The window to capture attention is brief — research suggests only three seconds — so simplicity is key.

Focus on high-contrast colors, dramatic imagery, and minimal text (5–7 words) that highlight your unique value proposition. Subtle animations can guide users naturally to your call to action. Because the brand takeover ensures your message is the only one users see on that day, it can drive impressive awareness and recall.

3. Branded hashtag challenge.

Branded hashtag challenge are all about participation. You create a challenge, users make videos doing it, and everyone tags your brand. It’s a fun, shareable way to build awareness and engage your audience.

A few ideas to keep it sticky:

  • Demonstrate a clear action (like a dance, recipe hack, or transformation).

  • Feature standout submissions to encourage more participation.

  • Offer incentives like discounts, prizes, or exclusive products.

The goal is simple: make it easy to join, fun to do, and memorable enough that people share it with friends.

4. Branded effects.

Branded filters, stickers, or AR effects invite active users to play with your brand in a creative way. Think Snapchat or Instagram lenses, but native to TikTok.

Encourage people to use your effect and tag your hashtag. Suddenly, your brand is spreading organically through the content people actually want to share. This approach is low on production cost but can have big engagement payoffs because users are doing the promotion for you.

5. TopView ads.

TopView ads are the VIP version of brand takeovers — they appear full-screen when someone opens TikTok, giving you prime storytelling real estate.

These work best when you want to immerse viewers in your message:

  • Grab attention in the first second.

  • Use professional visuals and clear messaging.

  • Drive action at the peak moment — download, visit, or shop.

They’re pricier than other formats, but the visibility and engagement can be worth it for big launches or high-impact campaigns.

6. Catalog ads.

Catalog ads turn your product feed into dynamic videos that feel native to TikTok. The system automatically personalizes content for users based on their behavior.

Imagine a clothing brand showing short clips of items that match each user’s style, or a kitchenware store highlighting tools someone recently browsed. Users can buy directly in the app, keeping the experience seamless. 

These ads are powerful because they feel like content rather than a hard sell, guiding viewers naturally toward purchase.

7. Spark ads.

Spark Ads let you boost content that already works. Maybe a creator’s video about your product is gaining traction, or your own post is performing well — Spark Ads amplify it to reach more people.

This format keeps the ad authentic: viewers see real, relatable content instead of a polished commercial. You can add clickable CTAs for purchases, app downloads, or website visits. Think of it as giving a viral moment extra fuel—it feels natural to viewers and can generate impressive results.

8. Video shopping ads.

Video Shopping ads combine storytelling with direct shopping. These ads enable direct product discovery within video content, and utilize interactive elements like product tags and pricing for even easier digital window shopping. Users can learn more about tagged items, and even purchase them in just a few taps. 

This feature is complete with seamless integration with TikTok Shop, making it simple and frictionless for brands who wish to showcase a particular item or product. 

9. Playable ads.

Playable Ads are interactive demos that let users try out an app or game before downloading.

Users engage directly with your ad, tapping or swiping to explore. This works particularly well for new apps because it’s low-commitment for users and can boost engagement and conversion rates compared to standard video ads.

10. Lead generation ads.

Lead Generation Ads capture user information, such as an email address or phone number, with in-app forms and calls-to-action. Options include:

  • Native Lead Generation: Instant forms inside TikTok.

  • Website Lead Generation: Redirects to your landing page.

  • Messaging Ads: Start conversations through TikTok Direct or IM apps.

This format is perfect for building email lists, inquiries, or engaging potential customers without leaving TikTok.

11. Search ads.

Search Ads and Search Ad Campaigns allow for brands to set up sophisticated keyword-based ads which specifically target TikTok's search results page. From the user’s perspective, the ads are the same, yet for advertisers these open up a whole host of new features and targeting capabilities are now available.

How it works is simple: When a user types a keyword in TikTok’s search bar, your targeted video will populate on TikTok’s search results page. 

With Search Ads Campaign, brands can have full control over how their content appears on the TikTok search results page, which is crucial for ensuring the right creative is served to the right users. 

Tips on creating content for TikTok

TikTok thrives on authenticity, and genuine content outperforms polished marketing. The platform's algorithm rewards natural interactions, capturing attention through raw, engaging videos.

Success depends on understanding viewer behavior rather than traditional marketing rules. Your brand needs entertaining clips that spark conversations, inspire sharing, and feel native to TikTok's unique environment.

Let's explore proven tactics for creating material that resonates with audiences and transforms your business presence.

1. Watch your videos from beginning to end.

First impressions make or break your TikTok success. The platform rewards videos watched completely, so grab attention within three seconds using a compelling hook. Keep content around 15 seconds, focusing on one clear message per video.

Study top performers in your niche and create smooth loop transitions that encourage repeat views, boosting performance metrics. Film multiple takes of your opener until it instantly captivates viewers. Within moments, viewers decide whether to stay or scroll.

TikTok rewards creativity that aligns with current trends. The platform's algorithm favors videos using popular sounds, giving them higher chances of reaching the For You page.

Exploring the Discover tab reveals emerging audio trends and viral formats. Select sounds that complement your message while keeping brand authenticity. Reimagine dance challenges as product showcases, turning popular transitions into brand storytelling.

Learning from successful industry videos sparks fresh ideas. Examine how others adapt trends, then craft unique variations. Build a collection of inspiring sounds in your favorites list.

Monitor performance data to identify which trend adaptations resonate with viewers. Focus on those that naturally fit your expertise and audience expectations.

3. Find unique ways to feature your products.

Nobody opens TikTok hoping to watch sales pitches. People scroll through their feeds, seeking laughter, inspiration, and those captivating moments that make us forget time exists.

Turn your products into supporting characters with engaging stories viewers want to watch. Rather than displaying items in a showroom style, weave them naturally into relatable scenarios. For example, instead of listing your skincare product benefits, share a cozy evening routine in which your face mask becomes part of a self-care journey that viewers can imagine themselves experiencing.

The magic happens when you blend entertainment with subtle product placement. Create content that solves problems or shares insider knowledge while your items play a natural role in the story. Film quick transformations, share daily life hacks, or record authentic moments that showcase how your products fit into real situations. Remember to match your music, transitions and overall vibe to the platform's current trend.

4. Livestream to your followers.

TikTok's livestreaming feature transforms passive followers into active participants, creating electric moments of genuine connection through real-time chat, spontaneous Q&A sessions and dynamic product showcase. Artful creators build anticipation by announcing upcoming streams across their social platforms, often sweetening the deal with stream-exclusive perks or flash sales.

Getting started requires 1,000 followers before unlocking the live capability. The setup process flows smoothly — just hit create, select your perfect thumbnail, craft an engaging title, and launch into broadcasting. Beyond fostering community, live streams open exciting revenue possibilities through TikTok's virtual gifting system.

Viewers show appreciation by purchasing Virtual Coins, which they convert into colorful digital gifts during broadcasts. These tokens accumulate into Diamonds in your creator account, ultimately becoming actual earnings you can transfer to your bank. This blend of engagement and monetization makes livestreaming an essential tool for modern content creators.

Transform your TikTok profile into a powerful sales engine by leveraging clickable links in your bio and TikTok Shop integration. Content creators know that directing viewers straight to purchase points reduces friction and boosts conversion rates; whether showcasing products on Amazon, running your ecommerce store, or selling through Walmart Marketplace, strategic link placement helps followers become customers with minimal clicks.

Maximize impact by crafting attention-grabbing calls to action like "Snag these trending items!" or "Unlock member-only savings today!" Pro tip: Design mobile-optimized landing pages that mirror your TikTok aesthetic and personality. Creating this seamless brand experience from video content through checkout significantly increases the likelihood of completing a sale. Remember to rotate links based on your current promotions and trending products to keep your profile fresh and engaging.

How to boost sales on TikTok

Turning TikTok likes and shares into actual revenue requires more than catchy videos. Viral moments are exciting, but without a strategy to convert engagement, popularity alone won’t grow your business. 

TikTok’s real power comes from creating authentic connections, influencing purchase decisions through creators, and leveraging engaging content to spark immediate buying interest.

By using TikTok’s dynamic shopping features, crafting compelling calls to action, and tapping into trending sounds and formats, casual viewers can become loyal customers eager to support your brand. 

Here are three bonus strategies to help you drive more sales:

1. Engage creators with affiliate programs.

Affiliate marketing is a win-win for brands, creators, and audiences. When a creator promotes a product they love and earns a commission on sales, it feels authentic rather than pushy. Platforms like TikShop, ShareASale, and Impact make managing these partnerships seamless.

For example, a beauty influencer could demonstrate the perfect winged eyeliner using your cosmetics and share a unique discount code like “GLAM20.” Behind the scenes, tracking tools monitor each purchase tied to that code. Reporting shows which creators drive the most sales, allowing you to optimize partnerships over time.

Some tips to make it work:

  • Commission rates typically start around 10–20%, but higher-end products can justify more to attract top talent.

  • Choose creators whose audiences align with your target market and whose content feels natural.

  • Highlight authentic demonstrations and reviews rather than overly polished ads — viewers respond to relatability.

The result? Brands reach engaged, trusting audiences; creators earn passive income; and followers discover products in a way that feels genuine, not pushy.

2. Explore the TikTok Creator Marketplace.

The TikTok Creator Marketplace (TCM) is your shortcut to connecting with the right influencers. Think of it as a matchmaking platform for brands and creators, helping you tell your story through voices that naturally resonate with your audience.

Here’s how to make the most of it:

  • Filter by engagement rate, follower demographics, content style, and location to find creators who truly align with your brand.

  • Look beyond follower counts — high engagement and authentic content matter more than sheer reach.

  • Use the platform’s analytics to monitor performance history and track key metrics like views, engagement, and conversions.

When creators share your products in a way that feels natural, audiences respond with trust and curiosity. By testing and refining your partnerships over time, you can scale campaigns that consistently drive revenue.

3. Optimize your TikTok advertising product feed.

Your product feed is more than just a catalog — it’s a sales engine. Optimizing titles, visuals, and descriptions can dramatically improve engagement and conversions.

  • Titles matter: Highlight benefits, not just product names. For example, use “Professional Camera Backpack | Weatherproof | 15" Laptop Sleeve” instead of simply “Camera Backpack.”

  • Visuals sell: High-quality images from multiple angles, consistent lighting, and clean backgrounds help users understand your product instantly. Aim for at least 1080x1080 pixels.

  • Descriptions count: Keep them punchy (100–150 characters), highlight benefits, and incorporate trending hashtags or keywords. Example: “Ideal for professional photographers, this weatherproof backpack features padded gear protection and ergonomic shoulder straps.”

  • Segment strategically: Separate feeds for seasonal items, bestsellers, or specific demographics can increase relevance and engagement.

  • Keep inventory accurate: Real-time updates via TikTok’s API integration prevent frustrating “out-of-stock” notifications. Tools like Feedonomics can streamline catalog management across channels, including BigCommerce, to ensure your feed is always optimized.

Finally, monitor performance closely. Track which products generate engagement and sales, then adjust titles, visuals, or targeting to keep your TikTok feed working hard for your business.

The final word

TikTok Shop opens up a world of opportunity for marketers and retailers who know how to leverage its selling tools. By creating a digital storefront directly within the platform, brands can align their marketing goals with tangible business results.

It all begins with building authentic connections through a mix of creative organic content and smart TikTok advertising that reaches your target audience. This approach allows brands to tap into entirely new groups of shoppers while deepening engagement with current followers and customers, all from a single platform.

FAQs about how to sell on TikTok

Use a TikTok Business account to access metrics like video views, audience insights, engagement rates, and follower growth. Reviewing this data helps you understand which content resonates and when your audience is most active. TikTok Pixel can also track actions users take on your website, giving you clearer insight into what drives conversions.

TikTok Live Shopping lets brands showcase products in real time, demo features, answer questions, and drive impulse buying. Paired with limited-time offers or discounts, Live Shopping creates urgency and streamlines the purchase process since viewers can buy without leaving the app.

TikTok's Creator Fund is a program that rewards creators for producing engaging content that gains high views and interactions on the platform. Entrepreneurs and business owners who promote their products on TikTok can earn money if their videos gain traction, helping offset costs like ads or inventory. Increased visibility from viral content can also drive traffic and brand awareness.

  • Posting overly polished, ad-like content that feels inauthentic

  • Ignoring audience insights or posting when your viewers aren’t active

  • Hard-selling instead of offering valuable or entertaining content

  • Skipping trends and sounds that could boost reach

  • Failing to engage with comments or build real connections

Watching trends — sounds, challenges, transitions — and creatively integrating your products can quickly increase reach. TikTok rewards authentic, unpolished content, so using trending audio or collaborating with creators can spotlight your items. Jump on trends early for the best results.

TikTok ads run on an auction system, so costs vary. Minimums include a $50 campaign budget and a $20 daily ad group spend. Daily budgets work for ongoing campaigns; lifetime budgets suit fixed promotions.

Influencer rates range roughly from:

  • $100–$500 for nano-influencers

  • $2,000–$20,000 for macro-influencers

A typical entry-level ad budget is $1,000–$3,000/month, with $5,000–$10,000/month common for competitive niches.

By leaning into authenticity, agility, and niche communities. Small businesses and start-ups can move faster on trends, collaborate with micro-influencers, and engage directly with comments and followers. Creative, relatable content often outperforms big-budget productio

Ship orders within three business days via Seller Shipping or TikTok Shipping, and track each package in the Seller Center. Respond to customer messages promptly; automated replies can help. For returns, approve or reject requests within 2–4 business days.

Use high-quality images and videos, clear titles, and keyword-rich descriptions. TikTok allows up to nine images—use this space to show the product in use. Include at least one video, consider adding UGC, and use TikTok’s AI optimization tools to enhance visuals and improve engagement.

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