As one of the most popular social media apps, TikTok is always updating its features to keep up with the latest trends. Recently, it announced that it will be testing a Stories-like feature. This new feature will allow users to post longer videos for up to 24 hours, with an option to add text and photo overlays. TikTok is rolling out the new video format in select markets including the United States, Australia, and New Zealand.

TikTok says it plans to roll out the new feature globally in the coming weeks. So far, reactions have been mixed. Some people are excited about the prospect of having more video content options on TikTok, while others are worried that this will simply create more competition for attention from viewers.

Dont make Ads. Make TikToks. -Trevor Johnson

What Are TikTok Stories?

TikTok Stories-Quick
TikTok Stories – Quick

The idea behind TikTok Stories is not new – it’s essentially a copy of Snapchat’s popular Stories feature. But it’s still exciting for TikTok to be adding newer features that will allow users to express themselves in different ways.

TikTok’s Stories will have the same effects, stickers, and filters found on Snapchat, and Instagram. Users can also add hashtags to their posts to expand their reach. However, TikTok says that its content will be different from what you find on Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook- they plan to feature more original videos that aren’t just copied directly from Tiktok feeds. Since TikTok is popular with a younger audience, expect to see lots of memes and references to pop culture in the TikTok Stories.

What Are TikTok Stories
What Are TikTok Stories

What Does This Mean for Creators?

For now, there’s no confirmation that TikTok will add an option for users to monetize their videos using advertising. Creators may still be able to earn some money from branded posts, but it’s unclear if TikTok will start running ads on the platform.

What are your thoughts on TikTok Stories? Do you like the idea of adding video and photo overlays to your TikTok videos? Let us know in the comments!

Since TikTok has mentioned that they are planning to roll out the new feature globally in the coming weeks. Let’s discover how we can start posting TikTok Stories:

  • Tap the camera icon on the navigation bar located on the left side of the screen.
  • Either record a video on the spot or upload one from your camera roll.
  • If you prefer, you can personalize your story using tools such as text, stickers, or effects.
  • Tap the Upload icon.

How to Use TikTok Stories to Build Community

How to Post to TikTok Stories
How to Post to TikTok Stories | Credit: @amanfirdaus

There are many ways to use TikTok stories to build community.

One way is to use them to share news and announcements. For example, you can use stories to announce upcoming events or new products. You can also use stories to give people a behind-the-scenes look at your company or organization. This can help build trust and transparency with your followers.

Another way to use stories to build community is by using them to connect with followers on a personal level. You can share stories about your day-to-day life or about something that happened recently. This can help followers feel like they know you better and that they are part of your community.

Finally, you can use stories to ask for feedback from followers. For example, you could as a business owner, freelancer, you can use TikTok Stories to build a community around your brand. By creating interesting and engaging stories, you can keep your followers coming back for more.

Here are some tips for using TikTok Stories to build community:

1. Make sure your Stories are interesting and engaging.

2. Plan ahead and create a content calendar so you know what you’re going to be posting.

3. Use hashtags to help followers find your Stories.

4. Respond to comments and messages from followers.

5. Collaborate with other users on Stories.

6. Be interactive and engaging.

7. Use Calls to Action to encourage followers to take action.

Just keep in mind stories aren’t always a successful deal, do you remember Fleets? Yeah… Despite Fleets’ closure, stories remain a popular social media feature. Launched by Twitter in early 2018, Fleets was a short-lived clone of the Stories feature that is now commonly found on many social media platforms. However, Fleets failed to engage users and was shut down earlier this year. Despite this, stories continue to be a popular way to share content online.

Tiktok and Business FAQ

Is TikTok good for business?

Since the app first gained popularity a little over a year ago, businesses have asked if TikTok is right for them. With over a billion video views per day, it’s no wonder why businesses are curious. Whether or not TikTok is right for your business depends on a few factors: what kind of business you have, what your goals are, and your target demographic.

What can TikTok do for business?

TikTok for Business is a centralized advertising platform. Ads are created, budgets are specified, the correct audience is reached, and campaign data is analyzed by the platform.

How has TikTok helped small businesses?

TikTok introduced the “Back-to-Business” ad credit scheme in July 2020. This initiative was developed to help small businesses recover after the pandemic caused a worldwide economic slowdown. Small companies worldwide might qualify for a share of TikTok's $100 million in ad credits.

How do I promote my business on TikTok?

1- Create a TikTok Ads Account.

2- Create Your TikTok Ads Campaign.

3- Set Your Ad Placements and Add Details.

4- Target the Audience for Your Ad Campaign.

5- Set Your Ad Budget and Schedule.

6- Set Your Optimization Goal.

7- Design Your Ad and Upload Relevant Assets.