How to Successfully Launch Your Brand on TikTok Shop
Did you know #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt has over 72 BILLION views on the app? The platform has become something of a search engine for Gen Z and Zillennial audiences. So what happens when TikTok realizes the potential of selling items straight from the app?
Enter TikTok Shop – an immersive platform tailored for merchants and influencers alike. Here's a guide on how to tap into this potential and launch your brand on TikTok Shop and leverage influencers to increase sales.
Recap: What is TikTok Shop?
TikTok Shop transforms TikTok from a video platform to a marketplace with a universal cart experience where consumers can make purchases directly in the app.
For Brands: Through video content, live streams, and a special product showcase profile tab, merchants can sell products directly to audiences on TikTok.
For Influencers: An avenue to earn through an affiliate program. Every sale driven by a creator through TikTok Shop helps them earn a commission.
For a comprehensive breakdown check out our latest blog post on TikTok Shop and how it can increase revenue and drive sales for your brand.
Using Influencers to Launch Your TikTok Shop:
TikTok has made it really easy to collaborate with creators. You pay influencers commissions on sales generated from their posts which they use your shop link. If you're launching with influencers, here are some steps to ensure smooth collaboration.
There are two types of commission plans available for brands when working with influencers:
Create “Targeted Plans”: This is an invitation-based affiliate program where only the creators you’ve invited to your Shop are able to promote your product. You can customize their commission fee ranging from 1% to 80% for some or all of your products.
Develop “Open Plans”: This plan is open to all creators. Creators who would like to promote your product can do so once their TikTok Shop applications are approved. This means anyone who meets the qualifications and links to your shop can make commissions.
Prepping Your TikTok Shop Affiliate Campaigns:
Timeline Consideration: Allocate extra time in your content launch schedule. Influencers must apply for TikTok Shop, and acceptance can take 4-5 business days. An influencer should have:
Over 10K followers.
An invite from TikTok to have the shop option.
Be based in the US.
As a brand, you'll need to whitelist your chosen creators.
Set Your Creators Up for Success
In order to work with creators on TikTok Shop, they must apply to be a part of the TikTok Shop program as an affiliate. This can take time!
Inform them that “Sponsored” or “Eligible for commission” will appear on their videos due to the TikTok Shop feature.
Share a setup guide with step-by-step instructions on how to apply to the shop and how to link your products in their product showcase.
Align their posting dates with your brand’s ideal commission period.
Update influencer contracts to cover:
TikTok Shop Set-Up Guide
Defined responsibilities
Commission rate/term
Product tagging details
Timelines
Final Thoughts
TikTok Shop is more than just a new platform; it's an opportunity. By understanding the intricacies and ensuring a seamless process for both brands and influencers, TikTok Shop can become a game-changer for your brand's online presence and sales.
