TikTok 101: How To Create ‘Live’ Videos

If you are just starting out with TikTok and want to make a Live video (as opposed to a recorded TikTok video in general), I have bad news. 

You cannot. At least, for now. 

TikTok is not like Twitter, Facebook or Instagram, where first timers can immediately start creating Live videos. TikTok only allows those over 16 years of age and have over 1000 followers to create (and find) Live videos. This is a relatively straightforward process if you meet these requirements. 

This might sound discouraging and so I want to quickly share five strategies you can apply (of course, you must have created your first video) to grow your influence or followership on TikTok. 

Differentiate, Niche and keep building

If you want to build your brand on TikTok, look for ways to make each video you create to stand out from others. The more you niche the better. 

Post quality videos

I’m sure if I ask, you wouldn’t want to follow a creator who shares low-quality videos on TikTok. So don’t do the same. TikTok shared these best practises to creating outstanding videos, especially when you choose to Live stream. 

Relevant Content

There are few things your TikTok videos should be doing, and the most important is to add value. Your videos may be engaging but make sure there’s a purpose that suits your audience’s needs. 

Keep Posting Videos 

Social Media, in general, is only effective when you put it to use. And it takes time and effort to build awareness of TikTok. I recommend that you create a schedule for yourself so you can post regularly to create a steady stream of content. Even when you reach 1,000 followers, it’s important that you ‘Go Live’ often.

Engage. Engage. Engage

On TikTok (and other social networks), interacting with others (especially your followers) is golden. Engagement can be replying and liking comments on your videos, like and add comments on posts of the people you follow. 

Going Live on the app

Performing Live Broadcasts is also a good strategy to grow your influence on TikTok. It gives you the opportunity to communicate more (through videos) about yourself, your services, and other things related to your brand. You also have the chance to chat directly with your followers in real time. 

With Live videos, you can raise funds for your projects, share BTS (Behind The Scenes) about your products or service, launch a book, promote a product, etc. 

TIKTOK’S STEP-BY-STEP TO GOING LIVE

• To go LIVE on TikTok, tap the “create” icon to access the LIVE screen. 
• Swipe to LIVE in the navigation, pick an image, and write a title for your stream.
• Once you’re ready, press Go LIVE to start your stream. 
• Once you’re LIVE, you can tap the three dots to change a variety of settings. You can flip the camera, add effects, filter comments, and even add moderators (up to 20).

TikTok has this gifting feature that allows your followers to support you (the creator of Live video) or you supporting your favourite creator. They can send you virtual gifts while you’re LIVE. TikTok says your gifts can later be exchanged for funds. 

Really, TikTok takes these gifts, transforms them into something called Diamonds. You can then exchange those Diamonds for real money. TikTok claims that the money or cash reward will be calculated by the company. This will be based on various factors which includes the number of Diamonds you have accrued. 

So what are you waiting for? Step up your daily content routine and experiment with TikTok Livestreaming!