Curious about TikTok but don’t know where to begin? Digital Boost could be the helping hand you need to get started.

TikTok’s popularity skyrocketed after the app was launched in 2016. Naturally, it evolved over the years from a place to show your friends how well you can dance to one of the top entertainment platforms and more recently, an effective marketing channel. The short-form video platform allows you to film, edit and share content across the globe. It’s a lucrative way to reach a big audience, competing with other well-known social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

When it comes to promoting hospitality businesses, TikTok has had a huge impact. In August 2021, a study showed that 36% of the app’s 1.6 billion users at the time, visited or ordered from a restaurant they’d seen on TikTok. 

So, why TikTok?

You don’t have to rehearse a speech or pose perfectly to film a TikTok video in your restaurant – the app favours the real and raw, the back of house laughs and preparation. This makes it easier to get it right, as there is no perfect. Viewers enjoy watching the behind the scenes and learning about what goes on in the kitchen before a well-presented plate hits the table.  It’s a great way for potential customers to get to know your brand on a deeper level, without you having to give away your secret recipe.

You’ve probably heard the word ‘TikTok’ a million times by now, or even helped a customer film their experience with your business, but starting your own channel can be a different story. Signing up to a new social media channel can feel daunting, especially one that requires filming and editing, and potentially being in front of the camera.

Getting started

This is where Digital Boost can help. The free government-funded platform has short videos on all things digital, including the groundbreaking app, TikTok. To get started, and put your business on the map, head to the website and search for ‘TikTok’. As well as an introduction to TikTok, and how the tourism industry can use the platform, there are more in-depth videos on leveraging TikTok for business marketing and reaching your audience with a TikTok ad campaign. 

Content creation

When it comes to publishing content, a quick Google can help with inspiration. You could introduce yourself and your business by talking to the camera, or stitch a few shots together panning around your workplace. Don’t forget to add a viral sound if you’re not speaking as these play a huge part in how many people will find you online. You can find these by clicking ‘add sound’ and checking out ‘what’s popular’ or ‘TikTok viral’.

Top tips

Once you’ve got your account up and running, remember these top tips to help your business reach success on the platform:
Look into the most popular hashtags, like #aucklandeats if you’re based in Auckland

Add trending sounds! 

Keep your videos short

Show off your best bits – do you have something that sets you apart? Like quirky furniture or an extravagant cocktail? If so, be sure to show it off

Do you hold events or live music? Be sure to include it on your channel

Don’t be afraid to show behind the scenes –  TikTok isn’t as polished as an Instagram post – viewers like reality and the personalities behind the business. Let them get to know your team and your day-to-day.

Going viral on TikTok could happen to anyone, no matter what size your business is or how many followers you have. As well as sounds helping to boost your visibility, TikTok also pays attention to your location which will help when it comes to attracting nearby customers.