TikTok, owned by the Chinese tech giant ByteDance turned as among the most successful native micro-video platforms, and it became the go-to platform for millions of young users. Thus, the “TikToker” has already become the evolution of the “influencer” from platforms like Instagram. Those TikTokers make money in a few ways, such as monetary gifts, sponsorships, advertising agreements, affiliations, and more.
Influencer marketing
We may as well start with one of the most obvious ways to make money: influencer marketing.
Here, companies hire TikTokers with large followings to promote their products, services, or general brand. Promotional activities may involve unboxing videos, trying on clothes, or simply speaking directly about the benefits of a product.
According to Influencer Marketing Hub, these branded videos can earn the influencer anywhere between $200 and $20,000 depending on their audience.
One example of influencer marketing at work is Loren Gray, who with over 52 million followers landed a deal with cosmetic company Revlon. Gray posts on the company’s TikTok account and also creates Revlon-sponsored posts for her own account.
Monetary gifts
TikTokers also make money by receiving monetary gifts from their fans. First, the fan must purchase TikTok coins and then exchange them for a variety of unique, virtual gifts.
Gifts are then sent to the TikToker and converted into virtual diamonds on their profile. Diamonds are used to measure the popularity or influence of a user on the TikTok platform.
They cannot be bought or sold, but TikTokers can exchange them for cash once a certain amount of diamonds have been accrued.
Cross-posting
To earn extra money for the same content and reach a wider audience, many TikTokers choose to repurpose their videos on similar platforms such as YouTube. Alternatively, they may share their content on a personal blog.
If nothing else, this form of self-promotion leads to increased exposure and more followers.
Flipping accounts
Believe it or not, many Tiktokers make money by growing accounts to a certain size and then selling them for a profit. This practice has been going on for years in the website industry but is relatively new to TikTok.
Many TikTokers choose a specific niche and then create engaging content that goes viral. Once this has been accomplished, they reach out to brands and attempt to sell the account which has a list of targeted followers.
Advertising
TikTok also offers an advertisement service where brands or businesses can sell their products to a wider audience.
This form of paid traffic is much the same as Facebook and Instagram ads.
Management services
Some TikTokers make money by selling account management services to other users. By its very nature, the TikTok platform turns ordinary people into overnight sensations with millions of followers.
Often, these TikTokers become overwhelmed and need advice on content strategy and creative strategy. Many also need schooling on how to best manage and negotiate the deals or offers that come their way.
Key takeaways
- TikTok is a platform for the younger generation, with 41% of active users being in the 16-24 age bracket. What’s more, 86% of young people want to make money through social media influencing.
- TikTokers make money through influencer marketing in much the same way as other platforms. They can also accept donations in the form of virtual gifts which can later be exchanged for cash.
- Some TikTokers make money by creating accounts with targeted followings and then selling them to brands. Account management services are also popular as many users become famous on the platform overnight.
Alternatives platforms to TikTok where to build your audience
Case Studies
Aspect | Description | Example |
---|---|---|
Content Creation | TikTokers primarily make money by creating and sharing engaging content on the TikTok platform. They use their creativity, talent, and personality to produce videos that resonate with their audience. The quality and uniqueness of their content play a crucial role in attracting followers and potential earnings. | Charli D’Amelio’s dance videos. |
Sponsored Content | One of the most common ways TikTokers earn money is through sponsored content. Brands and companies pay TikTokers to create and promote videos featuring their products or services. These collaborations can range from short product placements to full-fledged ad campaigns. The payment varies depending on the TikToker’s reach and engagement. | Addison Rae promoting a beauty product. |
Brand Partnerships | TikTokers often partner with brands for long-term collaborations. These partnerships involve creating content that aligns with the brand’s image and values. In return, TikTokers receive a consistent source of income, exclusive product access, and opportunities to participate in marketing initiatives. | Zach King’s ongoing partnership with Coca-Cola. |
Merchandise and Merch Sales | Many popular TikTokers develop their own merchandise lines, including clothing, accessories, and other branded products. They promote and sell these items to their fanbase, generating revenue through online stores or e-commerce platforms. The success of merchandise sales depends on the TikToker’s fan loyalty and reach. | Dixie D’Amelio’s clothing line. |
Livestreaming Gifts and Donations | TikTokers can receive virtual gifts and donations from their viewers during live streams. These virtual gifts, often purchased with real money by viewers, can be converted into actual income for the TikToker. Some viewers also send direct monetary donations to support their favorite content creators. | MrBeast receiving virtual gifts during a livestream. |
Monetization Programs | TikTok offers monetization programs for eligible creators. This includes the TikTok Creator Fund, which allows creators to earn a share of revenue generated from ads displayed on their videos. TikTokers can also access additional features and monetization options as they gain followers and engagement. | Loren Gray participating in the TikTok Creator Fund. |
Affiliate Marketing | TikTokers may engage in affiliate marketing by promoting products or services and earning a commission on sales generated through their referral links or promo codes. This method requires TikTokers to have an engaged audience that trusts their recommendations and purchases through their affiliate links. | Spencer X promoting a music equipment brand. |
Fan Memberships | TikTok introduced fan membership programs that allow creators to offer exclusive content and perks to subscribers for a monthly fee. TikTokers earn a portion of the subscription fees from their loyal fans. These memberships can provide a stable source of income for creators with dedicated followings. | Bella Poarch’s exclusive content for subscribers. |
Cross-Platform Promotion | Successful TikTokers often leverage their popularity on other social media platforms, such as Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter. They can negotiate deals for sponsored content and partnerships across multiple platforms, increasing their overall earnings. This cross-platform presence widens their reach and potential income streams. | Lele Pons promoting a brand on Instagram. |
Event Appearances and Performances | Established TikTokers may be invited to attend events, host meet-and-greets, or perform at concerts and shows. They can earn appearance fees and ticket sales revenue from these opportunities. These in-person engagements allow TikTokers to connect directly with their fans and monetize their popularity offline. | Jojo Siwa’s concert tour and meet-and-greet events. |
Educational Content and Courses | Some TikTokers offer educational content or online courses related to their expertise or niche. They charge for access to these resources, sharing their knowledge and skills with followers who are willing to pay for specialized content. This revenue stream combines education with entertainment. | Markian offering a course on video content creation. |
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Read Next: What Is Influencer Marketing, How To Become An Influencer, Types Of Influencers, Instagram Marketing, How Does Instagram Make Money, How Does TikTok Make Money, TikTok Marketing.
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