1. Create a TikTok business account

Before you can start promoting your products, you’ll need to set up a business account to access TikTok’s marketing tools and reach the right audience from the start.

Step 1: Download and open TikTok

If you haven’t already, download the TikTok app and sign up or log in using your business email or linked social media accounts.

Step 2: Switch to a business account

Tap the profile icon at the bottom right to access your profile. To view your account settings, open the menu by tapping the three lines at the top right, then select Settings and Privacy. Under Account, tap Switch to business account and choose the Business option.

Step 3: Select your business category

Pick a category that best describes your business. This helps TikTok show your content to the most relevant users. Some common TikTok categories include:

• Clothing and accessories
• Beauty
• Arts and crafts
• Electronics
• Education and training
• Finance and investing

Once you’ve completed these steps, your TikTok business account is ready. TikTok also gives you access to built-in analytics tools to help track performance and optimize your TikTok content strategy.

2. Make your first impression count

Before you create content, make sure your business account is optimized. With 62% of TikTokers under 30 – you’ve got to think – and act – like your audience. That means everything on the TikTok app needs to be short, sharp, and engaging. This includes your profile page.

Brand your profile photo appropriately

Your TikTok profile image and business name are the first things users see, so keep them consistent with your branding across platforms. 

The profile picture should be visually related to your other social platform profiles, using the same color palette and style.

The optimal dimensions for a TikTok account photo are 200 x 200 pixels. Consider simplifying the details, so the image looks good on the small thumbnail icon.

To improve visibility and engagement, make sure your TikToks include clear video information, such as captions and descriptions.

Make your bio short and catchy

The maximum allowed TikTok bio length is 80 characters. That’s about 10 to 20 words – try to make it half that. There are two ways you can go about it:

• Describe your business – Amazon’s bio is “we’d give you five stars,” Wendy’s bio is “Sir, this is a Wendy’s TikTok,” LinkedIn’s is “Let’s Tok about your career.” If they can make it work, so can you.
• Promote upcoming campaigns – Make your bio seasonal and timely, and update it frequently. Present an upcoming sale, event, feature, and anything else you have going on. 

Link with intent

You can link directly to your eCommerce store, but that’s not always the most effective way to track performance or guide users based on your content’s intent.

If your TikTok content focuses more on increasing brand awareness or sharing business insights, consider linking to another social media platform, a short video ad, or even an article about your business.

Alternatively, if you’re using your account to spotlight products, a dedicated catalog or landing page is often a smarter choice.

3.Prepare a TikTok marketing strategy

TikTok has redefined digital advertising, favoring content that feels real over traditional product pitches. Today’s younger audiences are sharp, skeptical, and quick to spot anything that feels overly polished or salesy. 

When creating TikTok ads, lean into a less commercialized approach – one that speaks their language.

Prioritize transparency, authenticity, and content that reflects real life. That’s where genuine value – and real connection – live.

Align your strategy with your business goals

Start by identifying the type of content you’ll create for a results-driven approach. These TikTok content ideas for business can help you match each piece of content to a specific objective:

• Increase brand awareness – Share engaging content that highlights your brand’s strengths and presence in the social space.
• Build engaged communities – Connect with the TikTok community by curating content for your niche. Collaborate with like-minded creators and speak directly to your audience.
• Sell products and services – Promote your offerings with targeted content around discounts, seasonal campaigns, product launches, and sales opportunities.
• Gather audience feedback – Use prompts, questions, or comments to invite feedback on your products and services, showing you’re listening and ready to improve.
• Provide educational content – Create helpful tutorials, how-tos, and step-by-step guides to support customers and even offer tips to fellow business owners.

Select your target audience

Make sure TikTok’s audience demographics align with your target audience. 60% of app users are female, and 40% are male. Of those, 80% are between the ages of 16-34.

Contrary to popular belief, TikTok isn’t just for teens. It’s steadily gaining popularity among older age groups, making it a valuable space for a wider range of businesses and audiences.

Thanks to TikTok’s algorithm, content is curated around niche interests: dancing, fashion, arts and crafts, cooking, fitness, and more. To make your ads resonate, think about the specific audience most likely to be interested in your content, and align your style with the formats and trends they already enjoy.

If you’re marketing to a global audience, don’t forget to factor in language preferences and cultural nuances. Tailoring your message helps you connect better with viewers around the world.

Choose relevant hashtags

Explore trending tags and use the right keywords or hashtags to help TikTok understand and promote your content to your ideal audience.

Stick to hashtags that reflect your brand and content, and avoid stuffing unrelated or overly generic ones. Strategic use of trending tags can help you gain more reach and attract new followers.

Team up with TikTok influencers

TikTok thrives as a social platform built around communities of shared interests – many of which are shaped by popular influencers.

To tap into this network, create content that interacts with well-known creators and connects your brand to the wider TikTok community. Duets, shared music clips, and trend-inspired posts are great ways to join the conversation authentically.

Alternatively, consider influencer marketing through paid collaborations to promote your products or services in a way that feels natural and resonates with their followers.

Turn comments into conversations

Engage with active TikTok users who post questions or reactions in your comments. These user interactions can provide valuable insights for improving your content.

Observe and like entertaining comments and reply to user concerns. Use the feedback to note whether your structure, prompts, or video framework needs to be optimized.

Develop a posting strategy

TikTok recommends posting content one to four times a day. This lets you test different types of content and what works best. Posting more than that risks flooding a user’s feed with too much marketing content.

Your TikTok videos must be consistent and posted according to your audience’s time zone. On weekdays, the best time to post on TikTok is early in the morning or late in the evening. For weekends, aim for the afternoon.

Plan ahead with a content calendar to stay on top of TikTok trends. 

While TikTok doesn’t allow post scheduling in-app, you can use third-party tools like Later, Hootsuite, or Metricool to schedule posts in advance and stay consistent. 

4. Engage with the target audience using relevant content

Know your target audience

Every time you open TikTok, the content magically caters to your preferences. That’s the algorithm at play. To get its attention, you need a very specific idea of your TikTok audience, what their niche is, and how you can compete with the content they already consume.

TikTok is an entertainment site first

Always consider how your marketing gets people’s attention. Unlike other social media business accounts, TikTok users expect your brand to entertain, not offer deals. Share your process of creating custom merch, bedazzle them with amazing designs, and be playful and fun without shifting from your brand voice.

Follow trends and challenges

83% of TikTokers have posted a video. TikTok will never run out of new trends you can hop onto. When a trending sound blows up, a new hashtag takes off, or a viral challenge hits the feed – move fast. Join in early and add a clever, on-brand spin that ties back to your business.

5. Start creating without overthinking video quality

TikTok tends to favor videos that feel real and unpolished over highly produced or overly edited media. Users aren’t necessarily looking for flashy formats or hard sells – they respond better to content that feels genuine, relatable, and easygoing.

To stand out on TikTok, focus on how you create high-quality content: with clear storytelling, strong relevance, and visual clarity that keeps viewers watching.

Think simple and authentic, not scripted and commercialized. Bring out your office pet, or offer a duet with a TikTok follower. Being authentic and transparent can help your brand build trust within the TikTok community and connect with users who value originality.

6. Tap into TikTok ads

TikTok offers several ad formats, including In-Feed Ads, TopView, Brand Takeovers, Branded Effects, and Hashtag Challenges. To get started, make sure you’re using a TikTok Business Account, then create a TikTok Ads Manager account, set your budget and goal, and connect your store to track conversions.

Keep your ads fun and engaging – TikTok rewards creative storytellers over hard-selling. If you plan to run ads, focus on content with replay value, a clear hook, and links in captions rather than in the video itself. 

Consider running Spark Ads, which let you boost existing organic content while retaining its original engagement metrics.

Instagram: Visual vibes and clickable magic

Instagram is the glam queen of social media platforms – perfect for affiliate marketers who love visuals, lifestyle content, and storytelling. With features like Stories, Reels, and shoppable posts, you can promote affiliate links in your bio, captions, or swipe-up stories (hello, Instagram Shop). 

Niche ideas? Fashion, fitness, skincare, travel. Add unique coupon codes or showcase the product in action – it feels less like a sales pitch and more like a friendly recommendation.

TikTok: Fast, fun, and wildly effective

TikTok is where affiliate marketing goes viral – literally. Quick, entertaining videos are perfect for promoting products, especially when you add affiliate links to your bio or video description. 

The platform works wonders for niches like gadgets, beauty, home hacks, and digital tools. Authenticity is everything, so lean into storytelling, trends, or even ‘TikTok made me buy it’ style content.

YouTube: Long-form trust builder

YouTube is the king of long-form content and ideal for detailed product reviews, how-tos, and unboxings. You can add affiliate links right in the video description – a goldmine for affiliate programs. 

From tech tutorials to beauty reviews, it’s all about trust-building. Successful affiliates on YouTube often rank in search engine results, which means your content keeps working long after it’s posted.

Pinterest: A visual search engine for shoppers

Pinterest isn’t just mood boards – it’s a search engine that drives serious traffic. With affiliate marketing, you link pins directly to landing pages using your affiliate links. It’s brilliant for DIY, decor, fashion, recipes, and digital downloads. 

The key is top-quality content – use vertical images, keyword-rich pin descriptions, and links to helpful blogs or product pages. The best part? Pins have a long lifespan.

Facebook: Still a powerhouse

Facebook may not be the new kid on the block, but it’s still one of the best social media platforms for affiliate marketing. From posting in groups to running a niche page or using paid ads, Facebook offers lots of ways to promote affiliate links. 

Lifestyle products, online courses, and tools perform well here. Plus, you get to build community and trust through engaging content and discussions.

X (previously Twitter): Short, snappy, and link-friendly

X is the best platform for affiliate marketing if you’re all about quick takes and link drops – perfect for wit and niche communities. Share honest reviews, viral threads, or product tips with affiliate links tucked in.

• It’s especially good for tech, finance, and digital products. 

Bonus: X’s searchability and hashtag system help get your content in front of the right target audience – fast.

1. Choose your niche

Think of your affiliate niche as your superpower – it’s the specific topic, interest, or passion you’ll build your content around. A clear niche helps attract the right audience, build trust, and recommend affiliate products that sell.

How to narrow it down:

• Start with what you love: Hobbies, industries, problems you solve.
• Use tools like Google Trends, AnswerThePublic, and Semrush to spot trends and keyword demand.
• Stalk competitors (for research purposes only) and other affiliates to see what’s working.
  

Hot affiliate marketing niches include:

• Health and wellness (a $5.5 trillion beast – think fitness, diets, supplements, alternative medicine)
• Fashion (accounts for 25% of all affiliate programs)
• Beauty and cosmetics
• Tech and gadgets
• Travel, sports, finance, gaming, luxury, pets, and more

Pick a niche that aligns with your interests and has good product options in affiliate networks.

2. Join an affiliate program

Next up: finding your ideal affiliate partner. Affiliate programs connect you with brands that pay you to promote their products through affiliate links.

Where to look:

• Printify – A POD goldmine with custom products and a generous commission
• Amazon Associates – Huge range, lower commission
• ShareASale, CJ Affiliate, Impact, and Rakuten – Tons of brands in every niche
• Niche-specific programs (like Sephora for beauty or REI for outdoor gear)

What to look for in good affiliate partnerships:

• Good commission rates
• Quality affiliate products
• Reliable tracking
• Creative assets and support
• Cookie duration (longer equals better)

3. Pick a platform that matches your audience

Let’s talk about platforms for affiliate marketing – because not all channels wear the same shoes. Choosing the best social media platform for your affiliate marketing strategy means understanding where your audience hangs out and what content they vibe with. You wouldn’t sell yoga mats in a finance subreddit, right?

Start by asking: Who is my main audience? Are they Gen Z fashionistas? Millennial fitness junkies? Gen X DIY dads?

• If you’re into beauty, fashion, or lifestyle, Instagram and TikTok are your BFFs. Short videos, reels, aesthetic posts, and unboxing clips all work wonders here.
• Love making tutorials or doing product reviews? YouTube is the holy grail – long-form videos build trust and are perfect for affiliate links in your video description.
• Pinterest is great for niches like home decor, recipes, DIY, and wellness. Pins last forever (okay, not forever, but months), which means passive traffic.
• Want to reach a broader or older demographic? Try Facebook, especially with its niche groups and marketplaces.
• And then there’s X – snappy, fast-paced, and ideal for sharing quick tips or linking to blog posts.

The goal is to choose the platform(s) that align with your content style and your potential buyers’ behavior. Don’t spread yourself thin trying to be everywhere. Pick one or two to dominate, then scale.

4. Create content and add your affiliate links

Relevant content is where your affiliate links live their best lives. But here’s the twist: your followers don’t care about the link – they care about the story you tell around it. That’s why smart affiliate marketers focus on high-quality content first, and sprinkle links in like the secret ingredient they are.

Here’s how to make it magic:

• Be helpful, not salesy – Think ‘I love this product and here’s why,’ not ‘Click this link right now or else!’
• Tell stories – How did a product help you? What problem did it solve?
• Create a mix – Product reviews, listicles, how-tos, ‘favorites’ roundups, daily routines, or even behind-the-scenes.
• Add links naturally – Drop them in video descriptions, story stickers, pinned comments, or blog post text.

Use content tools like Canva and Adobe for visuals, CapCut for quick editing, and Later to schedule your posts. And don’t forget to engage. Answer comments, ask questions, and create that sweet, sweet engaged audience vibe that leads to clicks (and commissions).

5. Track performance and optimize

Posting blindly and hoping for the best? That’s a no-go in affiliate marketing. To level up from rookie to revenue ninja, you need to track what’s working – and what’s not.

Start with the basics:

• Click-through rates (CTR) – How many people are clicking your affiliate links?
• Conversions – Are those clicks turning into actual sales?
• Top-performing content – Which post, video, or pin got the most love?
• Platform breakdown – Are your TikToks crushing it while Facebook flops?

Use your affiliate program dashboard (most offer built-in analytics), or pair with tools like Google Analytics and social media insights. TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest all have native analytics for content views, engagement, and more.

Then? Test, tweak, repeat. Try different content formats. Switch up your captions. Test out new affiliate products. With a little experimentation, you’ll find your sweet spot – and start seeing more success with every post.

Bonus step: Set up your affiliate website

74% of online shoppers in the US visit multiple affiliate websites before making a purchase. That means people are researching. They want blogs, reviews, comparisons – content that helps them make smart decisions.

So give it to them.

Setting up a site doesn’t have to be a headache. Launch a basic site or blog using platforms like Shopify, Squarespace, or Wix. Then, start creating relevant articles: product roundups, reviews, ‘best of’ lists, how-tos, and personal stories.

Value engagement over follower count

A tiny but eager audience will beat 100,000 ghost followers any day. Algorithms love meaningful interactions like comments, shares, and saves, not just vanity likes. 

• So, reply to DMs, ask questions, and make your followers feel like VIPs. 

This grows reach and builds trust, making your affiliate promotion feel natural and effective.

Experiment with content

Not sure what content clicks? Try it all – memes, tutorials, unboxings, mini vlogs, lives. With 65% of affiliates relying on content marketing as a primary traffic source, creativity is key to promoting affiliate products successfully. 

• Test different formats, post times, and CTAs. Use CapCut, Adobe, or InShot to add flair. 

The more you play, the more you’ll discover what resonates with your target audience on each social media channel.

Leverage user-generated content and listen to your audience

People listen to people – especially when they’re not being paid to talk about stuff. Use user-generated content (UGC) like reviews, testimonials, or unboxings from actual customers to feed credibility. 

With 90% of consumers trusting reviews over promos, this is your secret weapon. Share fan posts (with permission), create a branded hashtag, and repost stories. It builds trust and turns followers into your best affiliate marketing advocates.

Link management helpers

Before sprinkling your affiliate links all over your social media platforms, make sure they’re short, sweet, and trackable.

• Bitly – Shortens long affiliate links and tracks clicks so you can see what’s performing (or flopping) on your social accounts.
• Linktree – Creates a customizable landing page for all your links – perfect for Instagram bios or any platform with a one-link rule.

Content creation tools

To stand out in the scroll-happy social media scene, you need eye-catching visuals and videos that match your content style – these bring the sparkle.

• Adobe Express – Offers pre-made templates and cross-platform resizing tools so you can quickly design quality content for any social media channel.
• Canva – Drag-and-drop designs for everything from reels to pins – great for branded, eye-catching promotions.
• CapCut – A TikTok favorite for editing slick videos with transitions, effects, and text overlays – ideal for adding your affiliate link in the description.

Affiliate networks you’ll love

The real magic happens when you join an affiliate network that fits your niche, pays well, and connects you with top-notch affiliate programs.

• Amazon Associates – One of the easiest ways to promote everyday products across countless categories.
• Rakuten – Connects you to well-known global brands with strong affiliate programs and reliable payouts.
• Impact – A robust affiliate network offering deep tracking, custom commissions, and tons of digital marketing tools.

1. Optimize your eBay listings for keywords

eBay’s mission is to provide the best online shopping experience, helping buyers quickly find what they’re looking for. This means keywords play a crucial role when selling on eBay.

Start by doing keyword research. Enter terms relevant to your product selection and check the results. Find the top-rated sellers on the first page and take note of the essential keywords they use. Then, incorporate the phrases in these areas of your own store: 

• Page and listing titles
• Product descriptions
• Categories
• Meta tags
• Image alt tags

At the same time, leverage tools such as Google Trends, Ahrefs, or Semrush to find trending keywords and search terms.

A good rule of thumb for eBay SEO is to use the most searched-for keywords first, naturally embedding them into your listings without overusing them.

As per eBay’s guidelines on optimizing listings, product descriptions should be around 200 words, with important keyword phrases making up 5-7%. So in 200 words of text, use your keywords 10-14 times.

2. Write a good title and description

The best listings are short, clear, and precise. Do competitive research and explore their listings for inspiration, noting ones that rank on the first page.

In addition, familiarize yourself with eBay’s guide on writing a good title and description to increase the chances of buyers finding your products.

3. Select suitable categories

While categories are not the first means of navigation, they’re a crucial secondary filter to make the search result more relevant.

Select the most appropriate category so that eBay buyers can still find your listing. Failing to do so risks your product visibility on Cassini, as eBay considers category accuracy when ranking listings.

4. Optimize for mobile devices

As more buyers turn to digital shopping, it’s crucial to optimize your eBay listings for mobile devices. In fact, more than half of all eBay transactions were viewed on a mobile device prior to purchase, making this eBay SEO strategy vital.

Check whether your listing is mobile-friendly by following eBay’s best practices for creating listings. Strategies include using fast-loading images, writing short and clear descriptions, and avoiding excessive HTML or custom fonts that don’t display well on mobile.

5. Fill in item specifics

In a marketplace as vast as eBay, potential buyers rely heavily on filters.

If you want your products to be visible, you need to provide item specifics like brand, size, type, and color. In doing so, your eBay listing will gain better visibility in search results to help drive more sales.

For more details, eBay has an informational guide on item specifics explaining their benefits and features for finding missing item specifics.

6. Take beautiful product images

If you’re wondering how to get more traffic from eBay search results, publish high-quality, large, and eye-catching images. It’s a major way to stand out from competitors and get more eBay views on your listing, enticing people to purchase.

Learn how to take product photos for your online store to create a visually compelling listing. From tools to creative examples, our article shares how to set up professional lighting, choose the right settings, and edit images for a quality finish.

If you sell print-on-demand items, this process is even easier. Printify collaborates with Placeit to help you create realistic mockups without investing a fortune.

7. Price your products with precision

eBay is well-known for great bargains, so offer competitive prices but leave some room for negotiation.

Pricing is essential in eBay’s product-based shopping model, where similar items are grouped together. If you offer a competitive price, eBay’s algorithm will more likely rank your listing higher in Best Match searches.

When setting a price, consider:

• Analyzing the competition. How many sellers offer similar products? See what most eBay sellers are charging and set your price accordingly while considering profit margins.
• Using psychologically appealing prices. For example, keep the numbers to the left of the decimal point low – $2.99 instead of $3.10.

If you price products lower than the competition, use professional images to showcase the quality and reinforce value. If your prices are higher, make sure to write compelling descriptions highlighting your product’s advantages.

Check out our guide on the most common pricing strategies to increase your eBay sales.

8. Maintain a good seller rating and reputation

Negative feedback lowers your listing’s rating and visibility on Cassini. That’s because eBay takes your performance as an eBay seller, in all aspects, into account when ranking listings.

To make sure that your products stay on top of search results, you should:

• Monitor your eBay business ratings using performance metrics in Seller Hub. If they begin to decline, take action and make necessary improvements.
• Regularly check buyer messages. Everyone values a prompt and polite reply to their queries. On eBay, quality communication is critical to your seller account performance.
• Accurately inform dispatch time and fees. Clearly communicate all relevant information to keep Cassini and buyers happy.
• Address bad reviews. While you can’t remove negative reviews, reaching out to the buyer to resolve the issue may lead them to revise their initial feedback. However, it’s ultimately the customer’s decision, so approach the situation with care and avoid being overly insistent.

Handling customer service professionally can get you positive feedback and keep your eBay listings ranking high while winning you loyal customers.

9. Try eBay Promoted Listings campaign

An eBay Promoted Listings campaign improves your product visibility in eBay search results. It’s worth considering if your listings often only appear on page three or onwards.

There are three different ways to promote listings:

• Promoted Listings Standard. eBay only charges you when a visitor clicks on your promoted listing and makes a purchase.
• Promoted Listings Express. Specifically designed for auction-style listings and works to improve visibility for a flat fee.
• Promoted Listings Advanced. A cost-per-click type of campaign that lets you bid for preferred access to the top slots of search results.

10. Use social media

Social media is an excellent solution to get more views on your eBay account.

Whether on Facebook, TikTok, or Instagram, sharing your eBay listings is a simple way to attract leads and get more quality views – increasing the chances of making a sale.

Make sure to target platforms where your ideal customers are. For example, bargain items are great to promote on Facebook, while trendy pieces might perform well on Instagram.

11. Keep your eBay store fresh

Cassini favors active stores as it signals engagement and relevance to buyers, so regularly add new products and update old listings for better visibility.

To keep your eBay store catalog up to date, use eBay’s scheduling feature to publish new items. This helps maintain a steady flow of fresh inventory, encourages more frequent visits, and improves your store’s performance in eBay’s search algorithm.

12. Provide free shipping and a fair return policy

Free shipping and returns make it easier to entice people to purchase and sway undecided buyers.

Evaluate your costs and see whether offering free shipping is viable. One solution is to incorporate delivery costs into the item’s price. Alternatively, offer free shipping to customers who reach a minimum order amount.

Creating a fair return policy is also important, since many buyers are hesitant when making online purchases with new sellers. The policy helps establish your eBay store’s trustworthiness, giving potential buyers peace of mind and ultimately improving your conversion rate.

13. Offer eBay guaranteed delivery

Offering guaranteed delivery, combined with free shipping and a fair return policy, creates a winning combination that drives purchases.

With it, you promise customers that their items will arrive by a specific date. If not, eBay will make it right by providing options like refunded shipping or a shopping voucher. This assurance builds buyer confidence and helps convert views into sales.

The eBay website has everything you need to know about the guaranteed delivery option.

14. Qualify for Top-Rated Seller status on eBay

To stand out among other eBay stores, become one of the platform’s very best sellers by meeting eBay’s Top-Rated Seller benchmarks. These include a low defect rate, low late shipment rate, and a few cases closed without seller resolution.

Although earning this status requires time, patience, persistence, and exceptional service on your part as a seller, it’s a worthwhile endeavor that will result in better visibility and more eBay sales.

Step 1: Create a Printify account

Start by signing up for a free Printify account. You get access to our extensive Catalog, our easy-to-use Product Creator (formerly known as Mockup Generator), and our global network of carefully vetted Print Providers.

Step 2: Integrate eBay with Printify

Follow the instructions to connect eBay with Printify to effortlessly publish products to your eBay store.

Step 3: Choose, design, and publish your first product

With over 1,300 high-quality products from t-shirts to totes, finding items to sell on eBay is easy. Use our Product Creator to design one-of-a-kind merch that stands out from competitors.

Step 4: Promote and sell your products on eBay

All that’s left is promoting your products and watching the eBay orders come in. When you sell an item, we’ll swiftly print, package, and ship it directly to your customer’s doorstep.

1. Open your Reels page

First, make sure you’ve got a smartphone and have given Instagram access to your camera, microphone, and device storage. Then, go to the Instagram home screen and tap the plus icon at the bottom of the page to start a new Reel.

Now, swipe to the Reels tab from the bottom menu. You’ll now have two options: choose a video from your camera roll or record a new one. 

To record a new video, tap the camera icon in the top-left corner.

You’ll see lots of tools on the screen.

• Left toolbar – Audio library, effects, layouts, and other creative resources.
• Top right corner – Control settings.
• Top middle – Flashbulb settings, timer, and video speed.
• Capture button – Record, choose resolution, a selection of special effects.
• Bottom left corner – Media gallery.

2. Select audio

Tap the music note icon in the toolbar to go to Instagram’s music library. 

It has several sections: 

• For you: Music based on your interactions and profile preferences. 
• Featured: Popular songs.
• New releases: Fresh, upcoming tracks. 
• Original audio: Sounds created by others who create Reels. 

Add audio first and build your content around it to make sure your Reel’s topic matches up with your chosen music. 

While exploring Reels from other creators or brands to discover trending sounds, select Use Audio from public Reels to save it to your library for future use. 

Add your own audio by creating original content, recording spoken lines, mixing tracks, or compiling edited clips. Your original audio will be available for others to use unless you limit your Reel to close friends or followers.

3. Record video clips

Film and pause your Reels at appropriate cuts, all in a single take, or add clips of a pre-recorded video from your camera roll.

There’s also a timer feature for hands-free recording. 

Find the timer tool on the left of your screen – the clock icon – to set your Instagram Reel length and timer countdown. Once you press record, the Reel will start countdown timers (three or ten seconds) before you start recording. 

While recording, you’ll see a progress indicator at the top of the screen. Release your hold to stop recording at the end of your video clip, or let it finish on its own if you’re using a timer. Then, press the record button to keep filming or select a new timer to record multiple clips. 

Tap Next when you’re done recording. Don’t worry – you can always edit later.

4. Add elements

How to make an Instagram Reel that pops? By adding some fun stuff. Tap on the sticky note icon at the top of the screen to choose stickers, turn on captions, add a location, and more. Tap the Aa icon to add text to the video. Make sure anything you add to your Reel is placed strategically and stays the same size throughout the video so your content is easier to follow. 

Navigate to editing mode and select a clip to create seamless transitions between scenes. This makes your Reel more engaging for viewers.

5. Change speed

In editing mode, tap on the clip you want to change. At the bottom of the screen, you’ll see a timer icon. Select it and choose between 0.1x to 10x speed.

Slowing the action at the right moment and ramping up to a faster pace can make a regular scene more dramatic and eye-catching for Instagram users.

6. Post your Reel

Once you’ve chosen the right audio, added effects, and set speeds, tap Next. The Instagram app will ask you to add captions. Make it short, place any necessary links for ads, describe the content, and add relevant hashtags.

Then, tag any people seen in the Reel, add a location tag if necessary, set a cover image, and choose where to share your content. Enable auto-generated captions on the Advanced Settings page, which we recommend if you haven’t included your own.

Once finished editing, save the draft and post it in the future, or click Next to share your Instagram Reel immediately.

Repost to your Instagram Story

Sharing a Reel directly to your Story is possible through the app itself but will only show the first 15 seconds of the video before linking the Instagram user to the full cut on the original Reel page.

Tap the paper plane icon on the right side of the Reel, then select the Add to Story bubble at the bottom of the screen. However, Stories only last for 24 hours unless you add them to a Highlight on your page.

Download your video

If you’d like to upload a Reel to your own page or save it to your camera roll, tap the paper plane icon on the right of the Reel. Then, scroll through the bubbles at the bottom of the screen to find the Download button. Tap it to download the Reel to your device. Then, follow the usual steps to upload the video as a Reel to your own page. 

As a rule of thumb, always credit the original creator when uploading someone else’s video as a Reel to your profile.

Remix or create a sequence

There are two options for posting an Instagram Reel to your feed without downloading it: remixing and creating a sequence. To view these options, tap the three dots on the right side of the Reel. A popup will appear with options to Remix or Sequence the Reel. 

If you choose Remix, you’ll have some options to edit the Reel before posting it to your own Instagram profile. 

The options are similar to the ones you’ll see when creating a Reel from scratch – adding filters, audio, captions, text, stickers, voiceovers, and more. When remixing a Reel, you must change something about the video before posting it to your feed. Once you’ve made adjustments, tap Next and proceed to the final stage before posting.

Making a Sequence lets you make all the same edits as Remixes, plus add your own clips to the original Reel. This is popular for reaction posts, answering questions posed in original Reels, or following up on a previous video. Trim the Reel to your desired length, then add your clips. Once done, follow the steps mentioned above to finish and post your Reel.

Step 1: Head to your Instagram profile

The first step is locating the Reel you want to boost. Visit your profile and find the Reel – either in your main feed or under the Reels tab.

Step 2: Pick the Reel you want to boost

Tap on the Reel you’ve decided to promote. If you’re viewing the Reel from your Reels tab, tap the three dots icon in the bottom right corner and choose “Boost Reel.” In the main feed, you should see the “Boost” button below the Reel.

Step 3: Choose your goal and define your audience

Instagram will ask you to define your goal. Do you want more profile visits, website clicks, or direct messages? Select the option that aligns with your marketing objectives.

Choose who you want to target with your boosted Reel. You can either let Instagram handle it with automatic targeting or set up your own custom audience based on age, location, and interests.

Step 4: Set your budget and duration

Decide how much you’re willing to spend and for how long. Whether you want to run the promotion for a day or a month is entirely up to you and your budget.

Step 5: Confirm and boost

Review all your selections, and when you’re ready, tap Boost. Instagram will review your ad, and once approved, your Reel will be on its way to reaching a wider audience.

Niche down

Successful Instagram marketing starts with defining your target audience, niche, and content format to align with your goals. Choose a topic you’re experienced in and passionate about to become an authority your viewers trust.

Use different lengths

Instagram Reels creators have consistently asked for a longer time allowance, giving more opportunities for creativity.

Post long-form videos along with your shorter Instagram Reels content for variety.

Use the slider in the timer menu to increase your video length even after recording a clip.

Use captions and text overlays

Captions are essential for users with hearing disabilities, but did you know that up to 92% of people watch videos with the sound off?

People read text faster than spoken language, so adding captions can hook them in before they start scrolling away. Use online tools like Google Cloud TTS, Veed.io, or Transkriptor to transcribe your audio or do it manually.

Play around with speed, effects, and filters

Keep your videos clear of clutter, but use Instagram editing tools like special effects, filters, motion arrows, location tags, GIFs, and images when suitable to pump up engagement and entertainment value.

Add filters and effects by tapping the Stars icon to change shadows, color grading, and focus points, but don’t overdo it – excessive edits can make your Instagram Reels look low-quality and unrelatable.

Experiment with your video layout

Add multiple video sequences playing off one another on a single screen. You can use this effect to compare two different video clips, duet another artist, or jazz up your Instagram Reel with additional clips over the main video.

Reposting from TikTok? Think again

The Instagram algorithm de-prioritizes visible reuploads from other apps, which effectively shadowbans your content from the Reels tab and Explore page.

There are editing tools to erase the TikTok watermark, but this can reduce your video’s quality, so we recommend creating original Instagram Reel content instead. Reposted content will downgrade your brand image.

Hop on trends

Trends shift quickly, so when you spot one that fits your content, act fast. Share smaller trends in your Stories, and don’t hesitate to repost or reorder clips if a past topic resurfaces. Add relevant hashtags to increase engagement.

Here are a few 2024 trends to watch:

• AI-generated content: Using AI tools for creative visuals, voiceovers, or captions is pretty popular.
• Sustainability themes: Modern audiences really like content with eco-conscious themes.
• Collaborative Reels: Partnering with influencers or brands for joint content is very common and a great way to monetize your Instagram Reels.
• Behind-the-scenes footage: Audiences love authenticity and transparency, so show them what goes into your content.

Don’t limit yourself

Stay on top of new design software to make editing easier and more fun. Practice using additional lighting types and practical effects, and add music that goes along with your visuals. 

Always push the boundaries of what other creators post in the Instagram Reels tab to get more viewers’ attention and grow your following.

Eligibility requirements for the YouTube Partner Program

The rules for joining the YPP are straightforward. You need to meet certain milestones, such as watch time and channel subscribers.

When do you start making money on YouTube? When you reach at least 1,000 subscribers and:

1. Watch Time: 4,000 valid public watch hours in the last 12 months.

or

2. Shorts Views: 10 million valid public Shorts views in the last 90 days.

Additionally, you must comply with all of YouTube’s monetization policies, have an AdSense account, and live in a country where the YouTube Partner Program is available.

Sell custom products with Printify

The easiest and best way to sell custom products is by partnering with print-on-demand companies like Printify. 

Our platform is ideal for busy YouTubers who want to earn money with their own merchandise while focusing on content creation. Plus, you only pay once you sell, so don’t worry about upfront costs.

Here’s how to cash in on this low-cost, high-profit business idea:

1. Register: Sign up for a free Printify account.
2. Create: Pick from over 900 products and add your custom designs.
3. Sell: Publish products to a storefront and promote them to your fans.
4. Profit: Let our Print Providers handle printing, packaging, and shipping.

Check out our article on YouTuber merch for insights into the most popular products, colors, and designs among other YouTubers and their audience.

You can never go wrong with simple black or white t-shirts rocking your logo or channel name.

Join the Printify Affiliate Program

Looking for an affiliate program that’s perfect for your audience of budding business owners and entrepreneurs? Sign up for the Printify Affiliate Program and earn a 5% commission on each sale your links generate from YouTube traffic.

Benefits of joining the Printify Affiliate Program include:

• Free sign-up
• No earning limitations
• 90-day cookie life
• Convenient monthly payouts

Longer videos equal higher revenue

If ad clicks and view ratio is your main source of income, consider filming longer videos. Content over ten minutes has a higher watch time, generating higher ad revenue. 

If you include many ads in a shorter video, viewers might get annoyed and leave your channel. A longer video stretches the time between ads, providing a more natural content flow that’s perfect for monetization.

Videos with a high watch time also rank better on YouTube searches. Make sure to film at least over ten minutes, or cash in on that hour-long video essay.

High-quality content for the win

To make money, YouTubers must post quality content, build a loyal audience, and develop a trustworthy image as a content creator.

Invest in quality equipment and editing software, make well-produced and compelling videos, and, most importantly, post honest content that resonates with audiences. Don’t forget to use thumbnails that comply with platform guidelines.

Descriptions matter

Channel and video descriptions are some of the most important assets on your YouTube channel. They serve many purposes, from follower engagement to storytelling, search engine optimization (SEO), and promotions.

Write compelling descriptions, video titles, affiliate disclosures, detailed instructions, and enticing promotions for your products, fundraisers, or other social media channels. Don’t forget to use this space for relevant tags and keywords to secure your spot in search results.

Interact with your audience

Always interact with your followers during streams or in the comments. Fans love to communicate with their favorite creators, and your engagement will only encourage others to join.

Showing appreciation for your YouTube audience means more views, longer watch times, higher engagement, and more money.

1. Create an Instagram account

Use your existing profile or create a new account just for this purpose. It’s available on web browsers, but we recommend the Instagram app, as some features are only available there.

It’s free for iOS and Android devices.

2. Switch to a professional account

New users have personal accounts by default. The switch to a professional account isn’t permanent – you can switch between personal, business, and creator accounts at any time.

Navigate to your Instagram Settings by tapping on the hamburger menu at the top right corner of your Instagram profile.

3. Tap account and switch

Scroll down and click Account → Switch to professional account. Later, you’ll be asked to select a creator account or business account.

Remember that all business accounts are public, so you won’t have the option to have a private business account.

Switching back to a personal account will erase data from your business account. The system will turn off all in-app insights and permanently delete your content and ad insights.

4. Choose your category

Instagram will ask which field or profession best describes your business. If you don’t know how to define it, browse the suggested options to find the closest match.

Categories help the Instagram algorithm show your page to other Instagram users. You can change it anytime.

5. Add contact details

Your business page needs to include contact details in case shoppers have questions about your services or have encountered a problem.

Openness to communication cultivates customer trust and helps secure loyal shoppers in the long run.

Add your website address, business email address, phone number, and working hours. There’s also an option to link Instagram with WhatsApp Business for faster communication.

6. Connect a Facebook page

Link your Instagram business account with your business Facebook Page to increase your brand’s exposure and access different audiences.

These two social media platforms go hand in hand, offering organic post-scheduling and content sharing with your customers.

Remember that your Instagram business account can only connect to one Facebook Page.

7. Finish setup

That’s it! You’ve completed the Instagram business profile setup. Now go and try out all the features in your brand-new account.

The professional dashboard provides a complete overview of your account and post performance. It offers other account management tools like hiding your business category and adding contact information.

You’ll also see Instagram’s carefully curated content – from how to make Reels to working with brands.

Access to analytics

See your business profile analytics through Account insights. You’ll find detailed information on how many profiles you’ve reached and engaged with through the Instagram feed or Explore.

Create Instagram ads

Advertising is an effective way to reach people and have them Buy Now or Learn More about your product or service. The idea behind Instagram ads is fairly simple – paid ads help you easily target specific audiences with little investment.

Be trustworthy

Use Instagram for business to gain the trust of your audience and translate it into sales.

Create content that resonates with your followers and engages them with your promoted posts.

Become a verified Instagram business profile – it’s the fastest and most secure way to build trust.

Request verification by tapping Settings → Account → Request verification. This is how your business profile gets the verified badge – a blue checkmark next to your business account name.

Tag and sell products

Instagram provides the necessary advertising tools for your products and makes buying them easy. Instagram business accounts and other qualified public accounts in select countries can add shopping tags to their Instagram posts.

Add up to five products within a post and up to 20 in a carousel post. A carousel post lets you share ten photos or videos in one go.

Schedule posts and use links

Head over to the Creator Studio of the Facebook/Meta Business Suite and log in with your Instagram credentials to access various services for busy business owners.

Here, the most useful feature is post-scheduling, which is not something you’re currently able to use through your Instagram business account.

The Creator Studio dashboard gives you a clear timeline view for creating and scheduling posts and reviewing your current, past, and future scheduled posts. Don’t forget to add photos, videos, and any relevant links.

Run A/B testing with different text versions, photos, and videos to find the best-performing content for your audience.

Find your target audience

Start by defining your customer niche, creating buyer personas, and checking out our list of the top Instagram niches for 2025.

Remember that your audiences might vary across different platforms. For example, if you’ve linked your Instagram account with a business Facebook page, the message you share on Instagram might not work for your Facebook audience and vice versa.

Create and follow a strategy

Instagram marketing strategies are constantly evolving, so think of your business in the long term. Set relevant and achievable goals and objectives, and track your performance through Instagram insights.

Carry out A/B testing to see which marketing strategy works best for your Instagram business account, follow a marketing calendar with important eCommerce sales dates, and create a reliable posting schedule.

Prepare your Instagram

Make sure your Instagram business profile is ready to receive customers. In addition to a profile photo, you should have a bio, relevant website links, and your store’s contact information.

Group several Instagram Stories into highlights to feature them on your business profile for as long as you want.

Instagram archives standard Stories after 24 hours. Go to the Archive to view, repost, and highlight them. This is a great feature for reusing seasonal and holiday content.

Focus on visuals

Instagram is a visual platform, so you’ll want to create Instagram business account images that catch and keep the attention of your target customers.

Create an engaging visual identity with high-quality Instagram content. A dazzling profile picture and complimentary visuals in your Instagram feed will do the trick.

Explore the benefits of creating Instagram Reels, which are 15-second multi-clip videos you can edit with creative tools.

Learn how to take product photos before making content to ensure your unique images turn into sales.

Excel at copywriting

Whether it’s your business Facebook account or Instagram profile, good copywriting draws people to your store. We can’t overstate its importance, so we won’t even try.

Consider every aspect of your customer journey, starting with viewing your small business from a personal profile and ending with placing an order.

Answer these questions:

• How do you want your customer to perceive you?
• Will you use casual or formal language?
• Are you going to sound neutral, serious, funny, or a mix of all three?

Engage with your audience

People appreciate businesses that make an effort to connect with them. This is why you should consider replying to comments on your posts, Stories, and direct messages. Engage your customers by asking for feedback and work on creating a community.

Of course, that’s easier said than done – you can’t spend an entire day talking to customers. Thankfully, these useful tools will help you efficiently connect with your customers on another level.

Advertise your business

Run Instagram ads, use relevant hashtags, reach out to Instagram influencers to form collaborations, and use your Facebook Business Page and other social media channels to advertise your Instagram page.

Working out a solid Instagram marketing strategy will help you monetize your business. Keep in mind that sponsored content regulations may vary between countries.

Sell print-on-demand products on Pinterest with Printify

Eliminate the need for inventory and logistics with POD. Connect your eCommerce store and sell on social media with Printify. Create custom product designs as Pinterest Pins and lead customers to your merchandise while we take care of production and shipping.

Printify is your premier partner for creating custom products and automating eCommerce sales. Our easy-to-use platform allows you to maximize brand growth on Pinterest with: 

• Over 900 custom-print products in our Catalog to choose from.
• Integrations with the most popular sales platforms and marketplaces.
• No platform fees or setup costs.
• Our global network of Print Providers to handle fulfillment. 
• 24/7 Merchant Support and an extensive collection of resources and guides.

1. Sponsored posts

Starting with the most popular form of monetization, sponsored posts let Instagram users collaborate with brands that align with their audience, brand identity, and existing content.

Earn through multiple partnerships by sharing posts highlighting a sponsored brand’s product or service. Income is based on your follower count and engagement rate.

How to make money using Instagram sponsored posts:

1. Build a niche and create engaging content to attract your target audience and brands.
2. Join platforms like AspireIQ or Influencity to connect with brands looking for influencers.
3. Contact relevant brands with a media kit that highlights your audience and engagement.

2. Affiliate marketing

Affiliate marketing is a commission-based advertising partnership for content creators and influencers. Instagram users can earn by promoting products through unique referral links.

Partner with brands to promote their products or services in your bio or Stories with a trackable link. Like sponsored posts, your affiliate partner should align with your niche and target audience’s values.

To monetize your audience with affiliate marketing:

1. Join affiliate networks like the Printify Affiliate Program or Amazon Associates.
2. Share your affiliate links in your bio, posts, or Stories when showcasing products.
3. Earn commissions each time a user clicks and buys from your unique link.

Affiliate links usually have a 30-day commission window from click to sale. Earnings depend on how well your audience responds to the product, so only advertise what’s relevant to your brand.

To apply for the Printify Affiliate program, read our Terms of Service and submit an application. 

3. Selling products via Instagram Shop

Selling your own products on Instagram Shop is one of the most profitable ways to generate income while building your brand.

With Instagram’s shopping tools, you can offer a seamless buying experience, engage your audience, and monetize your content with minimal effort.

Instagram does have its own shopping feature, but it’s managed through the Facebook Commerce Manager.

To start selling on Instagram, you must first set up a Facebook Shop:

1. Switch to an Instagram Business Account in Instagram settings.
2. Create a Facebook Business Page with contact info and your business category.
3. Set up a Facebook Shop to link products from an eCommerce platform or add listings directly.
4. Connect your Instagram account to your Facebook Business page via Linked Accounts in settings.

Once you have a Facebook Shop, you can start linking and promoting products on Instagram.

Design and sell merchandise on Instagram with Printify

If you don’t want to invest a good deal of money upfront in a retail business, use an online product fulfillment service like Printify to design and sell products with zero inventory and streamlined order management.

1. Create a Printify account: sign up for Printify for free and explore the platform to familiarize yourself with the tools for designing and selling products.
2. Create custom products: select a product from our Catalog. Then, use our Product Creator’s tools to upload designs, generate AI art, add text, choose mockups, and prepare your listings.
3. List on your shop: fill out your listing details and publish your product to your connected eCommerce store. Printify automatically updates listings and orders, making order fulfillment super easy. 
4. Tag products in content: promote your items by tagging them in Instagram posts, Stories, and Reels, allowing users to shop directly from your Instagram content.
5. Sell on Instagram: whenever a customer buys one of your custom print-on-demand products, our Print Providers produce and ship the order on your behalf.

4. Offer paid subscriptions

Instagram’s subscription feature lets creators offer exclusive content to followers for a monthly fee.

This content may include behind-the-scenes footage, personalized messages, and more.

Paid subscriptions are ideal for creators with a loyal following who want access to premium content.

How to get money from Instagram by offering subscriptions:

1. Set up a professional Instagram account.
2. Enable the subscription option in your settings.
3. Offer exclusive content or direct engagement.

Promote the value of your subscription in your regular posts, highlighting the unique perks subscribers will enjoy. This method can generate steady income and further strengthen your connection with dedicated followers.

5. Monetize Reels

Instagram Reels lets creators earn money through ad placements and bonuses. It’s an excellent way to monetize short-form video content that your audience loves.

The Instagram Reels Play Bonus program rewards creators based on the performance of their Reels. 

Here’s how to get income from Instagram by monetizing Reels:

1. Create engaging, high-quality Reels that align with trending topics.
2. Apply for Instagram’s Reels Play Bonus program once your account qualifies.
3. Track your performance to optimize future Reels and increase earnings.

Reels are highly discoverable, and with consistent posting, you can reach many viewers, leading to higher engagement and increased earnings. Use popular music and hashtags to increase your Reels’ visibility, and keep videos short for maximum impact.

6. Brand partnerships and collaborations

Brand partnerships involve collaborating with businesses to create content that promotes their products or services.

This strategy can involve long-term relationships where you become a brand ambassador, representing the brand across your Instagram content.

To start brand partnerships:

1. Reach out to brands that align with your content and audience.
2. Propose creative collaboration ideas that highlight their products authentically.
3. Share brand-related content on your feed using Instagram’s Paid Partnership feature.

These partnerships are often more lucrative than one-off sponsored posts and build deeper connections with the brands. Partnerships often offer free products that you can review, advertise, or place organically in your content.

Brands value long-term collaborations as they build trust and a consistent presence within a niche, helping both parties profit from a shared target audience.

7. Sell digital products

Offering digital products on Instagram like selling prints, artwork, music, eBooks, online courses, or design templates is easy to scale independently due to zero inventory or shipping concerns.

Here’s how to make money off Instagram selling digital products:

1. Create digital items tailored to your audience, such as tutorials or guides.
2. Use eCommerce platforms or hosting websites to sell your products or services.
3. Promote your digital products through Instagram posts, Stories, and Reels.

This method is a fantastic way to generate passive income since digital products can be sold multiple times with little effort.

8. Use Live Badges

Wondering how to make money on Instagram through live streams? Instagram Live Badges let followers support you financially during your lives.

To start earning with Live Badges:

1. Enable Badges in your Instagram settings.
2. Go live regularly to engage with your audience and encourage them to buy badges.
3. Promote Badges during your live streams to remind viewers how they can support you.

Try to reciprocate the payment. Offer shoutouts or answers to questions for viewers who purchase badges to provide value for their purchase.

9. Promote services

Thinking of how you can make money on Instagram using a set of skills? Instagram is an excellent platform to market your services, whether you’re a photographer, personal trainer, or consultant in a particular field.

Highlight your expertise to attract clients. 

To promote your services with Instagram marketing:

1. Highlight your skills and services on your Instagram bio, including links to testimonials and a portfolio.
2. Create content that demonstrates your expertise, such as tutorials or behind-the-scenes.
3. Encourage followers to contact you via direct messages or through a booking link in your bio.

Use Instagram’s built-in call-to-action buttons to encourage bookings or consultations directly from your profile. This method works well for freelancers and independent business owners.

10. Offer exclusive webinars or workshops

Webinars and workshops provide value to your followers while generating income. Offer paid sessions on topics relevant to your niche, from social media marketing to fitness training.

To host paid webinars:

1. Choose a hosting platform like Zoom or YouTube.
2. Create engaging promotional content on Instagram to attract participants.
3. Offer exclusive knowledge or skills that your followers can’t get elsewhere.

Promote the event through Instagram Stories, Reels, and posts. Use countdown stickers and reminders to build anticipation, and offer special packages or discounts to encourage signups.

11. Crowdfund your projects

Instagram audiences are great for crowdfunding. Create projects on platforms like Patreon or GoFundMe to ask for financial support in exchange for perks and exclusive content.

To start crowdfunding:

1. Set up a crowdfunding page on your chosen platform.
2. Promote your project in your Instagram content.
3. Offer unique rewards for different contribution levels.

This is a good choice for funding art projects, charitable causes, or new products like games or media while building a sense of community around the work.

Keep your audience updated on your progress and celebrate milestones to maintain interest.

12. Provide account management services

If you’re an expert in social media marketing, content creation, or strategy, offer your services as a social media manager to other businesses or creators. Instagram already serves as a portfolio for your work.

To start offering marketing services:

1. Highlight your skills by sharing tips, case studies, or examples of your work on Instagram.
2. Include a call to action in your bio, directing potential clients to contact you.
3. Use Instagram Stories and posts to advertise your services and success stories.

Social media manager services are in high demand, especially for smaller businesses looking to grow their online presence. This is definitely an earning method that could turn into a full-time job.

Active search

This method allows TikTok users to directly search for specific terms or topics using the built-in search bar. SEO is particularly important here. 

By optimizing your videos with keywords and hashtags, you increase the likelihood of your content appearing in search results when users actively seek information related to your niche.

Content discovery

Unlike active search, content discovery relies on TikTok’s sophisticated algorithm to surface videos it believes will resonate with each user. This algorithm considers various factors, including watch history, interaction patterns (likes, comments, shares), and broader platform trends. 

While SEO doesn’t directly influence these recommendations, well-optimized content with high engagement metrics (likes, comments, shares, watch time) can still perform better as the algorithm prioritizes content users enjoy and interact with. 

Creating high-quality, engaging content that resonates with your target audience is an indirect yet powerful way to leverage the content discovery system for increased visibility.

Individual user interactions

The TikTok algorithm considers users’ likes, favorites, hidden videos, and videos watched to the end to suggest similar content. 

• Watch Time: Videos with longer watch times signal user interest.
• Completion Rate: Videos watched in full indicate high engagement and are likely to be promoted.
• Shares and Saves: Other users sharing or saving your video signifies valuable content and expands its reach.

Video information

Pay attention to the content in the videos you upload: 

• Captions and Descriptions: Include relevant keywords naturally within video titles, on-screen text, captions, and descriptions to improve searchability.
• Hashtags: Utilize a strategic mix of popular and niche hashtags to categorize your content and attract targeted viewers.
• Sounds and Music: Trending sounds and music can boost discoverability through sound-based searches.

Device and account settings

Device and account settings weigh less in your TikTok ranking than individual user interactions and video information.

TikTok improves performance by using your language preferences and country setting, as well as your mobile device type and interest categories.

• Location Tags: Geo-tag your videos to reach local audiences for relevant content.
• Language Settings: Set your video language correctly to ensure you reach viewers who understand your content.

Overall engagement

• Likes and Comments: Positive reactions signal valuable content and influence recommendations.
• Follower Growth: A steadily growing follower base indicates audience interest and can boost visibility.

Understand your target audience

Start with your known audience. Analyze their engagement: what videos resonate, and which hashtags capture them? Comments and messages also offer clues. 

Then, proceed toward your target audience – who are you trying to reach? Research your ideal followers’ demographics, interests, and the type of content they engage with. This helps tailor your content and keyword strategy to their interests for a strong TikTok SEO strategy.

TikTok keyword research

Incorporating strategic keywords is essential for discoverability, but how do you identify the right ones? 

Use free keyword research tools like Google Trends and Google Ads Keyword Planner to discover search terms with good volume (how often users search for the term) but low competition (fewer creators targeting those terms). 

This sweet spot increases your chances of ranking well. Broaden your reach by including a mix of long-tail keywords (more specific phrases users might search for) alongside broader terms that capture the essence of your content. Consider exploring paid keyword insights tools like Ahrefs and SEMrush for more in-depth research.

Strategic keyword integration

Optimizing your content with relevant keywords is a fundamental pillar of TikTok SEO. By strategically incorporating these terms throughout your profile and video elements, you increase the likelihood of your content appearing in search results. Here’s a breakdown of key areas to focus on:

• Optimize Your Profile: Don’t underestimate the power of your profile as a searchable asset. Include appropriate keywords within your bio and username. While character limits exist, strategically weave in terms that describe your content and niche.
• Hashtags: Hashtags are the gateway to discoverability on TikTok. Utilize a balanced mix of popular hashtags (ideally under 500,000 posts) to tap into broader trends and niche hashtags (under 100,000 posts) to target specific communities.
• Conduct thorough hashtag research to identify trending terms that align with your content and audience. Remember, quality trumps quantity. Prioritize using relevant hashtags that accurately describe your video and resonate with your ideal viewers.

When you strategically integrate keywords across your profile and hashtags, you enhance the searchability of your content, making it easier for users actively searching for related topics to discover your videos.

Trending topics

The fast-paced nature of TikTok thrives on trends. 

Staying updated on popular challenges, dances, sounds, and effects can significantly increase your content’s discoverability and engagement, particularly for creators building their audience. 

Here’s how to make the most of trends:

• Stay Informed: Explore the Discover page, follow relevant hashtags, and observe content from creators you admire.
• Strategic Participation: Don’t just jump on every trend. Analyze which ones align with your brand or content style to ensure an authentic connection with your audience.
• Add Your Unique Spin: Even while participating in trends, inject your own creative twist. This personalization can help your content stand out and leave a lasting impression.
• Leverage Trending Sounds and Effects: Using popular sounds and effects can increase the chances of your video appearing on TikTok’s search results and trend pages.

By strategically incorporating trending elements, you can tap into the current conversation on TikTok and expand your reach to a wider audience.

However, remember that authenticity remains key. Focus on creating content that aligns with your brand identity while using trends to enhance discoverability.

Combine TikTok with blogging

Having a blog alongside your TikTok creates a powerful SEO synergy. Here’s how to use each platform for the other:

• Promote TikTok on Your Blog: Embed your TikTok videos directly into your blog posts. This keeps users engaged on your website while showcasing your dynamic content.
• Optimize Your Blog Posts: Carefully research keywords and incorporate them naturally into your blog content. This improves your SEO ranking on both Google’s internal search and potentially within TikTok’s search queries.
• Drive Traffic Back to TikTok: Include clear CTAs within your blog posts, encouraging readers to follow you on TikTok. Consider offering exclusive content or sneak peeks on TikTok to motivate them further.
• Blog About Your TikTok Process: Offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into your TikTok content creation. This can include blog posts on brainstorming video ideas, editing tips, or insights into what resonates with your audience. This not only fosters a deeper connection with blog readers but also provides valuable content for your blog.

Implement this two-way digital marketing strategy and maximize the reach of your content, establishing yourself as a thought leader in your niche on both platforms.

Track your performance

Regularly analyzing your TikTok video performance lets you identify what content resonates with your audience and what areas need improvement. Here’s how to make the most of analytics for success:

• Track Key Metrics: Regularly monitor core video metrics such as views, completion rate, engagement (likes, comments, shares), and follower growth. These KPIs (key performance indicators) provide valuable insights into how your content is performing.
• Identify Winning Keywords: Analyze which keyword ideas perform best in your videos. Look for trends that generate high views, engagement, and follower growth. This will help you improve your strategy for future content.
• Refine Your Approach: Adapt your content creation and SEO tactics based on your analytics. Consider what elements resonate most with your audience and tailor your future videos accordingly.
• Utilize Available Tools: Use TikTok’s built-in analytics suite to gain insights into your video performance. Additionally, consider exploring third-party analytics tools that offer more comprehensive data and reporting features.

Monitor your performance consistently and use data to guide your decisions. This will help you continually refine your TikTok SEO strategy and maximize the reach and impact of your content.