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Microsoft Create: How to optimize your TikTok account for your brand or business

Introduction

In today's digital landscape, TikTok offers unique opportunities for brands and businesses to reach and engage with their audiences. As a social media manager and TikTok strategist, it’s vital to optimize your TikTok account effectively to convert visitors into followers. In this article, we’ll dive into the essential steps to set up your TikTok account, including choosing the right account type, crafting a compelling bio, and more.

1. Account Setup

When you're starting out on TikTok, the first decision is selecting the type of account that best serves your needs. There are two primary options: Business Account and Personal Account.

Business Account

Pros:

  • Instant access to a link in your bio
  • Access to TikTok Ads features

Cons:

  • Limited music options, only access to the commercial music library, which excludes most trending sounds

Personal Account

Pros:

  • Full access to the extensive music library, including trending sounds

Cons:

  • Cannot access TikTok Ads
  • Link in bio feature is only available once you reach 1,000 followers

Remember, both account types provide full analytics to track your performance.

2. Name Optimization

Your TikTok name should accurately portray who you are as a creator or business. This is key for TikTok’s algorithm and search engine optimization (SEO). Instead of just using your name or brand name, consider including a vertical bar and your niche.

For example:

  • For a graphic designer named Sally, a suitable name could be Sally | Graphic Designer.
  • For a lip balm company, a name could be [Brand Name] | Organic Lip Balms.

3. Crafting a Captivating Bio

Your bio is your opportunity to communicate the value you offer to potential followers. Focus on your ideal audience rather than yourself.

For example:

  • For Sally targeting small business owners: Helping small business owners elevate their brand with great design.
  • For a lip balm company, you might say: Everyday beauty for the everyday girl. Vegan and organic lip balms.

Call to Action (CTA)

Including a CTA in your bio directs visitors to take specific actions:

  • For Sally: Book a free consultation
  • For the lip balm brand: Shop now!

4. Pinning Videos

Once you start creating TikTok content, you can pin up to three important videos to the top of your profile. These pinned videos should clearly explain who you are, how you help your audience, and the benefits of your offerings.

For example:

  • Sally might pin videos on Choosing a Brand Logo, Color Psychology in Branding, and a Client Success Case Study.
  • A lip balm company might have videos highlighting Core Brand Values, a Best Seller, and Customer Reviews.

5. Adding Covers

Video covers are often overlooked but are crucial for established branding on your profile. These covers help new visitors quickly understand the content of each video and navigate your profile. This provides an opportunity for viewers to watch more, thereby increasing overall watch time—a key performance indicator on TikTok.

To add a cover, simply select the option to choose cover before posting your video. Maintaining a consistent style for covers can help in branding.

Conclusion

In summary, whether you are a content creator, service provider, or a business selling a product, your primary goal on TikTok should be to offer solutions to your audience's problems. A clear name, engaging bio, intentional pinned videos, and well-thought-out video covers will optimize your chances of converting visitors into loyal followers.


Keywords

  • TikTok
  • Business Account
  • Personal Account
  • Profile Optimization
  • TikTok Bio
  • Call to Action
  • Pinned Videos
  • Video Covers
  • Audience Engagement

FAQ

1. What type of TikTok account should I choose?
A business account is better for established brands that want to utilize TikTok’s ad features, while a personal account is suitable for individuals seeking access to the full music library.

2. How can I optimize my TikTok name?
Consider incorporating a vertical bar and your niche into your name to enhance your visibility and audience understanding.

3. What should I include in my TikTok bio?
Focus on how your content or services benefit your target audience, include a CTA, and differentiate yourself from competitors.

4. How do I pin videos on TikTok?
You can pin up to three videos by selecting a video, clicking on the three vertical dots, and choosing the pin option.

5. Why are video covers important?
Video covers help visitors quickly assess the content of your videos and enhance the overall navigability of your profile, increasing watch time and engagement.