TikTok has quickly become one of the most popular social media platforms in the world, with over 1 billion active users worldwide. It is easy to see why businesses are using TikTok as part of their marketing strategy.
But not all businesses are created equal when it comes to using TikTok. There are two main types of accounts: business accounts and creator accounts. Knowing the difference between these two account types can help you decide which type will best suit your needs.
Tiktok Business Account
TikTok Business Account is an official account for companies or organizations that want to use the platform for advertising and promotional purposes. This type of account offers features such as analytics and insights, advertising campaigns, leads generation, integration with other social media platforms, and more - all designed specifically for brands looking to reach out to their target audience on this platform.
Courtesy of Lilit Broyan on Medium
Features of TikTok Business Account
The analytics provided by a business account on TikTok gives brands access to detailed information about how their content is performing on the platform, including post engagement rates, user demographic data (such as age ranges), location-based performance metrics (which determine if users from different countries are responding positively/negatively to certain posts), giving them valuable insights into what kind of content resonates best with their followers across multiple regions around the world.
Additionally, they can create paid advertisements on TikTok via its ‘Boosted Ads’ feature, which gives them access to a much larger pool of potential customers than organic posts alone would allow them to, making it easier for them to connect with people who already have an interest in what they have to offer.
Finally, integrating your website right from the start (this is only possible if you have a verified business) and other social networks like YouTube and Instagram into one's profile allows smaller startups and companies without large budgets to find even more success since both those platforms provide additional channels through which interested individuals could discover new products/services being offered by said brands.
TikTok Creator Account
TikTok creator accounts are designed specifically for users who want to create content on the platform, such as musicians, artists, influencers, etc., rather than brands or businesses that are looking to advertise.
This provides more creative freedom by allowing access to advanced audio and video editing tools and customizable profiles so users can showcase their work in the best possible way. In addition, it also gives access to the ‘TikTok Creator Fund,’ which provides financial support for certain videos deemed worthy of being featured on the Explore page or other prominent spots across the app.
Features of TikTok Creator Account
Customizable profile:
A key feature of TikTok creator accounts is their ability to customize their profile according to their aesthetic preferences so they can stand out from others by showcasing their unique style or brand image among millions of other users on the platform.
This includes setting up custom banners and icons, adding personalized bios, building portfolios, posting relevant links, creating playlists, and utilizing emojis and GIFs, among many other features available through this type of account.
Advanced video editing tools:
Creators have access to more advanced editing tools such as multi-clip editing capabilities (with options like slow/fast motion), music/audio overlays and effects (such as reverb and echo), voice changer functions, color filters and adjustments (including hue/sat/contrast), background blurring abilities (for portrait shots), etc., all within one easy-to-use interface.
These features help them create better-quality videos with increased engagement potential.
Access to the 'TikTok Creator Fund':
The TikTok Creator Fund (which is only available in select countries) was created in order to provide financial assistance for creators who produce high-quality original content - especially those whose works may otherwise go unrecognized due to lack of visibility or promotion opportunities - helping them establish sustainable careers through online platforms like TikTok without any external investments required.
Advantages of a TikTok Creator Account:
Increased Visibility:
One major advantage of having a creator account is that it increases your chances of gaining recognition because you'll be able to show off your talent directly via built-in promotional channels offered exclusively through this type of account - including featured placement on explore pages and hashtag challenges which would normally require additional efforts.
More Creative Freedom:
As mentioned previously, having access to more sophisticated video production techniques allows creators to express themselves even further beyond what's already provided by standard user-level features, giving them much more flexibility when trying to come up with new ideas each time they post something fresh to the feed.
Access to the 'TikTok Creator Fund':
With a creator account, you become eligible to join the creator fund when you meet TikTok's terms and conditions. This can be an encouragement for creators who want to earn from their content.
Access to the TikTok Creator Marketplace
Having a creator account on TikTok gives you the opportunity to access the TikTok Creator Marketplace. This is a special platform designed specifically for creators where they can connect with brands and collaborate on sponsored content. The TikTok Creator Marketplace acts as a bridge between creators and brands, enabling them to collaborate on campaigns and create content that reaches a wider audience.
Access to TikTok Subscriptions
TikTok subscription is a feature that is offered to viewers in select regions, allowing them to subscribe to their favorite creators' accounts for exclusive content and perks. This feature is similar to a fan club, where viewers can support their favorite creators and gain access to exclusive content, live streams, and other benefits.
Comparison of TikTok Business and Creator Accounts
When deciding which type of account is best for you, it's important to consider both the pros and cons associated with each option:
Pros for TikTok Business Accounts:
Access to analytics: TikTok business accounts provide access to detailed analytics, which can help you understand your audience, track your performance, and optimize your content strategy.
Advertising opportunities: TikTok offers several advertising options, including sponsored content, in-feed ads, and brand takeovers, which can help you reach new audiences and promote your products or services.
Customizable profile: TikTok business accounts allow you to customize your profile with branded colors, logos, and links, which can help you build brand recognition and credibility.
Direct messaging: TikTok business accounts can receive and send direct messages, which can help you engage with your customers and address their inquiries and concerns.
Cons for TikTok Business Accounts:
Time and resource commitment: Creating and managing a TikTok business account can be time-consuming and require significant resources, including content creation, advertising budgets, and staff management.
Content moderation: TikTok has strict guidelines for content moderation, and violations can result in account suspension or termination. Business accounts must ensure that their content complies with these guidelines.
Limited audience demographics: While TikTok's audience is large and engaged, it is primarily composed of younger demographics, which may not be suitable for all businesses.
Ad fatigue: TikTok's advertising options can be highly effective, but users may become fatigued with excessive or repetitive ads, leading to reduced engagement.
Pros of a TikTok Creator Account:
Opportunity to grow your audience: TikTok has a large and engaged user base, which can help you reach new audiences and grow your following.
Monetization opportunities: TikTok offers several ways to monetize your content, such as through the Creator Fund program, sponsored content partnerships, and merchandise sales.
Access to creator tools and resources: As a TikTok creator, you have access to a variety of resources and tools designed to help you create high-quality content, engage with your audience, and grow your presence on the platform.
Creative freedom: TikTok is a highly creative platform, which allows you to express yourself and experiment with new content formats and styles.
Cons of a TikTok Creator Account:
Competition: TikTok is a highly competitive platform, with millions of creators vying for attention and engagement from users.
Algorithm changes: TikTok's algorithm can be unpredictable and subject to frequent changes, which can make it challenging to maintain consistent engagement and reach.
Content moderation: TikTok has strict guidelines for content moderation, and violations can result in account suspension or termination.
Time commitment: Creating high-quality content for TikTok can be time-consuming, and maintaining a consistent posting schedule can be a challenge.
Most of the monetization tools are only still available in select countries.
How Each Type Suits Different Types of Users
Depending on what kind of user you are, either a business or a creator will determine which type of account better fits your needs.
TikTok Creator Account:
Best suited for individuals or influencers who want to build their personal brand and engage with a large audience.
Provides access to a range of tools and features designed to help users grow their presence on the platform, including the Creator Fund program, analytics tools, and educational resources.
Ideal for users who are passionate about creating content and building a loyal fanbase.
TikTok Business Account:
Best suited for brands and businesses that want to promote their products or services and reach new customers.
Provides access to a range of advertising options and analytics tools that can help users track their performance and optimize their campaigns.
Ideal for users who want to build brand recognition, generate leads, and drive sales through targeted advertising and engagement with their customers.
Overall, the choice between a TikTok creator account and a TikTok business account ultimately depends on the user's goals and objectives.
Creator accounts are best suited for individuals or influencers who want to build a personal brand and engage with their audience, while business accounts are best suited for brands and businesses that want to promote their products or services and reach new customers.
By understanding the differences between these two account types, users can choose the one that best fits their needs and helps them achieve their goals on the platform.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a TikTok Account Type
When choosing between these two options, it's essential to consider a few key factors to make the most informed decision possible:
Goals and Objectives
What exactly are you hoping to accomplish using the platform? Do you want to drive traffic to your website and increase sales numbers? Or maybe just build a community and engage potential customers?
Budget
Will you be able to afford the costs associated with running paid campaigns, if necessary?
Target Audience
Who is your primary demographic targeting? Are you aiming for a certain age group, gender, location, etc.?
Creativity and Personal Branding
How much creativity are you willing to put into the content creation process? Do you need help from a professional team to develop a strategy further?
Final Thoughts
To summarize, the difference between a TikTok business vs. a creator account lies mainly within the purpose of why one is utilizing the platform.
While the former is geared towards generating leads and conversions, the latter is designed to help build relationships and establish authority in respective niche markets.
Additionally, there are pros and cons associated with each, so it's important to evaluate them carefully before making the final selection. Regardless of which one is chosen, always remember to stay true to the original vision and mission and strive for success.