Earlier this week, we examined a new TikTok feature that offers an easy-to-use sounds library for SMBs to add dimension to their creations. As part of that narrative – and our ongoing TikTok analysis on the page and stage – we also dove into some success factors for SMBs that use it as a marketing vehicle.
Many of those tactics boil down to “speaking the language” of TikTok. That language is part empirical and part intangible. For the former, there are best practices like being genuine, self deprecating, and even sarcastic. For the latter, as we discussed on This Week in Local, it’s more of a vibe.
In both cases, the most successful SMBs on TikTok are those who learn that language. And that translates to spending lots of time on TikTok as a user. Conversely, those who are doing it to check a box in their marketing mix, or simply port over other video content, likely won’t get much traction.
Back to the intangible aspects of TikTok’s vibes, we realized this is something that compels a “show rather than tell” approach in our ongoing analysis of the platform. In that spirit, we launch our latest series: TikTok SMB showdown. It will periodically spotlight SMB TikToks and why we like them.
With that backdrop, let’s jump right into the inaugural post… featuring the first three SMB TikToks we’ve selected. Look out for future posts in this series periodically and send us suggestions for your favorite SMB TikToks. Also, don’t miss L23, where we’ll feature TikTok and a real-life panel of SMBs.
This Week’s Picks
Embedded below are this week’s selections. If the video is done by the time you scroll to it, hit the refresh button at the bottom left of each window. And be sure to unmute for the full effect…
Selection #1: @spicekitchengrill
Why we like it: One of TikTok’s strengths is to amplify craveability and food lust. This is great for restaurants that can capture the vibe. Cut out all the noise in traditional advertising and just show me some fried chicken wings, drowning in your sauce.
@spicekitchengrill Our Spice Honey Wings are a guaranteed mood booster! 😋🤤 Watch how happy you get after the first bite! #spicekitchengrilldc #dmvtiktok #dmvfood #dmv #washingtondc #placestovisitdc #wings #droolworthy #honeywings
Selection #2 @prairiepatchfarm
Why we like it: Llammas and Hall & Oats… what more do you need to show the world what you’re all about.
@prairiepatchfarm We’re here to make your Llama Dreams come true! Inquiries for stays in our Farmhouse BNB open this Wednesday, March 1st on our website for stays from April-July! Your llama-cation awaits. #farmhouse #llamacation #farmstay #bnb #airbnb #uniqueairbnb #vacay #llamas #iowa #midwest #airbnbfinds #iowacity #vrbo #thisisiowa #bestofthemidwest #cedarrapids
Selection #3: @sleevzmask
Why we like it: An effective format on TikTok is time-lapsed videos that demonstrate a product’s benefits in a time-efficient way. Sleevz Mask perfects this art in 9 seconds, which makes it highly snackable for fast-scrolling TikTok power users. It also makes good use of sound, per our recent analysis.
@sleevzmask Answer @spidermark790 still can’t believe the response to this video… and now we have our GEN2 mask that magnetizes to eyewear 🤓 👓
