How to Make Money on TikTok: 15 Proven Strategies

TikTok has transformed the social media landscape since its launch, captivating millions with its engaging short-form videos. As the platform continues to grow, it presents a wealth of revenue opportunities for creators and brands alike. Whether you’re an aspiring influencer or a business looking to tap into TikTok’s vast audience, understanding how to monetize your presence is crucial. In this article, we’ll explore 15 effective strategies to help you make money on TikTok.

1. Join the TikTok Creativity Program/Creator Fund

Since 2020, TikTok has offered its most popular creators a way to monetize their content through the Creator Fund. However, as of December 16, 2023, TikTok will replace the Creator Fund in the US, UK, Germany, and France with the Creativity Program. To qualify, creators must have at least 10,000 followers and 100,000 views in the last 30 days. Earnings will be based on views and engagement metrics, providing a direct way to earn from your content.

2. Run TikTok Ads

With a significant portion of its user base being Gen Z, TikTok is an excellent platform for brands to run targeted ads. TikTok offers various ad formats, including:

In-feed videos: Appear on users’ For You Page.
Brand takeovers: Full-screen ads that transition into in-feed videos.
Hashtag challenges: Encourage user-generated content and engagement.

These ads can be tailored to specific demographics, making them a powerful tool for reaching your target audience.

3. Collect Tips or Donations

TikTok has introduced a tipping feature that allows fans to show appreciation for their favorite creators. Viewers can send virtual gifts during live streams, which can be converted into real cash. Additionally, creators can use platforms like Tipeee or Ko-fi as a tip jar, allowing fans to support them directly.

4. Collaborate with Other Creators

Collaboration is key in the TikTok community. Partnering with other creators can amplify your reach and engagement. TikTok’s Creator Marketplace allows brands to connect with influencers, ensuring that your collaborations are authentic and effective. Creator-made content often sees higher engagement rates, making this a win-win strategy.

5. Try Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is a lucrative option for TikTok creators. By promoting products or services and sharing unique affiliate links, you can earn a commission on sales generated through your content. Focus on products that resonate with your audience, and create engaging videos that highlight their benefits.

6. Grow and Sell TikTok Accounts

If you have a knack for growing TikTok accounts, consider selling them. Brands often look to purchase established accounts with a loyal following. Ensure that the account aligns with the buyer’s target audience and content strategy to maximize its value.

7. Sponsor Posts

Brands can sponsor posts on creators’ profiles, allowing them to promote products organically. This strategy can be particularly effective if the content resonates with the creator’s audience. Sponsored posts can be a one-time deal or part of a series, depending on the campaign’s goals.

8. Create a Patreon Account

Patreon allows creators to generate revenue through memberships that offer exclusive content. Use TikTok to promote your Patreon page, encouraging followers to subscribe for additional perks, such as behind-the-scenes content or early access to videos.

9. Sell Your Products and Merchandise

Merchandising is a tried-and-true method for creators. Whether it’s apparel, artwork, or branded products, showcasing your merchandise on TikTok can drive sales. Use your videos to highlight your products, and consider creating polls to gauge what your audience is interested in buying.

10. Set Up a TikTok Shop

TikTok has partnered with Shopify to launch TikTok Shopping, allowing brands and creators to sell directly within the app. By setting up a TikTok Shop, you can showcase products in your videos and live streams, making it easy for followers to purchase directly.

11. Offer Exclusive Content on TikTok

TikTok recently introduced TikTok Series, a feature that allows creators to offer exclusive content behind a paywall. Creators can set prices for their series, providing a new revenue stream for educational or entertaining content.

12. Provide Virtual Gifts

Creators can enable virtual gifts on their videos, allowing fans to send tokens of appreciation. These gifts can be converted into cash, providing another avenue for monetization. Make sure to promote this feature to your audience to encourage participation.

13. Host Live Events or Workshops

TikTok Live is an excellent way to engage with your audience in real-time. During live streams, viewers can send gifts, and some creators have reported significant earnings from this feature. Ensure your live content is entertaining and valuable to keep viewers coming back.

14. Offer Personalized Shoutouts

If you have a substantial following, consider offering personalized shoutouts for a fee. This can be a fun way for fans to connect with you while providing an additional income stream. Experiment with pricing to find what works best for your audience.

15. Sell Digital Products

Digital products, such as e-books, courses, or downloadable content, can be marketed effectively on TikTok. Create a shop linked to your TikTok profile, making it easy for followers to purchase your digital offerings.

Conclusion

These strategies can elevate your TikTok game and set you on a clear path to monetization. By leveraging the platform’s unique features and engaging with your audience authentically, you can turn your TikTok presence into a profitable venture.

FAQs

How many followers do you need on TikTok to make money?
To join the Creator Fund, you need at least 10,000 followers. However, you can receive virtual gifts with just 1,000 followers.

How many views do you need on TikTok to make money?
To qualify for the Creator Fund, you must have 100,000 views in the last 30 days.

How do you get paid on TikTok?
Payments from the Creator Fund are processed through your Creator Fund Dashboard, typically available three days after your videos receive views.

How to make money on TikTok without followers?
You can still monetize through user-generated content creation, affiliate marketing, selling products, or participating in brand challenges.

By implementing these strategies, you can maximize your earning potential on TikTok and create a sustainable income stream. Happy TikToking!