TikTok continues to lead the charge with its innovative platform updates that are changing the marketing landscape. With a user base that spans a range of demographics and as the hub of cultural trends, staying up to date with TikTok's latest advertising formats and features is crucial for brands looking to access consumers in new ways. 

Expanded Ads Placements and Interactive Formats

TikTok has recently broadened its horizons by introducing expanded ad placements. Now, advertisements can be seamlessly integrated into the TikTok Feed, Global App bundle, and Pangle (the ad network of TikTok for Business), offering marketers more avenues to reach their target audience. 

Additionally, introducing a new interactive format known as display cards allows advertisers to showcase products dynamically while their video ads play, enhancing the overall user experience.

Branded Missions

TikTok has launched a format called the Branded Mission, which is a unique way of having platform users become a part of brand campaigns by building their own content around the brand's most recent campaign, sparking meaningful engagement with the audience.

Key benefits include:

• Active community engagement and encouragement of user participation in challenges.
• Launching challenges boosts brand visibility and can go viral, reaching more users.
• The ability to tap into TikTok's audience to encourage the creation of UGC directly related to the brand.
• Using TikTok's analytics tools allows brands to measure campaign performance and user engagement, informing future marketing strategies.

Rewarding for Long-Form Videos

TikTok has implemented a Creator Rewards Program, recognizing the growing interest in longer-form storytelling. Creators now have financial incentives to post longer videos, with the platform rewarding accounts that produce clear and engaging content. This shift in focus from quantity to quality opens up new opportunities for creators and encourages diverse content on the platform.

Trends into Transactions 

TikTok's commercial partnerships further solidify its position as a marketing powerhouse. Its collaboration with Shopify enables merchants to seamlessly connect their online stores to TikTok Shop, unlocking new avenues for e-commerce on the platform. 

Additionally, the partnership with AXS, an American ticket outlet for sports and entertainment events, empowers certified artists to promote live event tickets directly on TikTok, enhancing the platform's entertainment offerings and driving fan engagement.

Both of these e-commerce features make it easier to encourage direct sales on the platform, simplifying the customer journey to increase conversions from paid ads and influencer content. 

Brands should take advantage of the new features and bake them into their media plans to drive KPIs. 

Did you know, Digital Voices works with TikTok Shop and you can chat with us about setting up your merchant profile on the app to diversify your customer base. To learn more, reach out to us at hello@digitalvoices.com.