1. TikTok
TikTok exploded in 2020, becoming the fastest-growing social media network with an estimated 800 million active users and a 58% increase in downloads in the first quarter of 2020. Part of the surge in popularity and downloads is attributed to COVID-19 and more people spending time on their mobile devices and social media.
The video-based platform, where people can share clips up to 60-seconds in length, is especially popular with the teenage demographic, however, studies show it is growing in popularity among adults.
TikTok is also becoming an increasingly popular network for brands to interact and engage their target audience, particularly since video marketing is one of the most effective tools, according to research.
The good news here is that longer videos, up to three minutes in length, are currently being beta tested for larger creators, while some accounts are trialing the addition of a link in their bio, which will help with conversions.
Brands like the NBA, The Washington Post, MAC Cosmetics, Chipotle, and BMW have had success on the platform, which shows that TikTok is more than just dancing videos (which are still hugely popular, by the way).
Part of the appeal of TikTok is its approachability with content that isn’t overly produced. Even brands that have the bandwidth to up-level their video quality are making their content feel spontaneous, which helps humanize the brand and the people who work there.
Additionally, TikTok’s algorithm is designed so that anyone can go viral; even small accounts with little to no following can rack up hundreds, thousands, or even millions of views. The opportunity for organically expanding your reach is extensive!