It comes as no surprise that TikTok is one of the leading social media platforms today. With over a billion active users, the video-sharing app has come to dominate the greater global culture with its impact. As more and more people continue to join TikTok, it is becoming increasingly difficult for content creators to stand out. This is especially true for new users who, unlike some of the content creators that have moved from other apps like Youtube and Instagram with years of experience, do not know the ins and outs of content creation. Successful TikToker Sammy Gerb is all for the newer generation of tech-savvy, creative individuals. This is her guide on how to set up a successful TikTok profile, make catchy content and the like.
Sammy caught her big break on TikTok with a video that she posted, wherein she is seen painting a giant 54-piece Jenga set for a game night at a friend’s. She has since managed to amass a hefty following of over 1.7 million. According to her, the small details that make up a more stable, bigger picture are what matter the most when it comes to social media. This is significantly important for those who are in the process of building a brand.
More than anything else, Sammy emphasizes the value of a personalized profile section. While many users opt for a funky username or profile name at first, and change it later on as their creative form starts taking shape, it is better to stick with one username and tailor the brand accordingly. Because you can only change your username once every 30 days, it also makes it difficult to steadily grow in case of a hasty shift or sudden change of heart. She also urges new creators to be creative with their bio, but also keep it exclusively about what the profile offers. From niche to the overall mood, your bio should encapsulate the essence of your content and personality as a creator.
In addition, she suggests content creators add a few extra touches to their profile like choosing a non-profit organization that their followers could donate to. If there is any promo code for any brand or discount code available, it should also go up in the profile section for easy access. Sammy believes it also helps to have a website and other important links added to the profile section.
While the overall profile allows users to get more followers, it is ultimately how content creators engage with their audience that builds a sense of community. TikTok offers multiple options for its users to better interact with their followers, like unfiltered comments, QnA features, and automatic replies. Sammy encourages new content creators to play around with these features and organically add more value to their profiles. A small effort can go a long way in ensuring the loyalty of their following.
Finally, Sammy suggests going over the community guidelines every once in a while. This is especially important for creators whose content is centered around serious themes or includes comic skits that can sometimes be perceived differently from the intended meaning. A common rule that she believes all creators should follow is that their content should first and foremost promote empathy and further a sense of collective belonging. That, to her, is what makes a good artist regardless of their medium, form, and palette.
You can check out Sammy’s social media content and artwork here.