How to Make Money on TikTok 🤑

TikTok is a hugely popular micro-video app that’s home to many different influencers. Below, we’ll discuss how to monetize on TikTok so you can get paid for doing what you love. 

TikTok is an undeniable force in the world of social media. It’s also an indispensable marketing tool in today’s digital age — from big-name brands to small mom-and-pop business owners, everyone’s chiming in. And with so many possibilities for turning passion into profit, from TikTok’s Creator Fund to sponsored content and merchandise sales, it’s no surprise why.

Whether you’re an experienced TikToker or just getting started, here’s what you need to know about capitalizing on this popular app. 

Short answer: yes! With more than 1 billion active users, TikTok offers an enormous audience for creators. It also provides several ways for users to profit from their content, including TikTok’s official monetization program, the Creator Fund, which pays creators based on factors like their total number of video views and how engaged their followers are. To apply, you must have at least 10,000 followers and more than 100,000 views in the past 30 days.

If you don’t have a large following (yet!), you still have options. Content creators have found innovative ways to monetize their TikTok content, and brand and influencer partnerships are just the tip of the iceberg. 

There’s no simple answer, but on TikTok, one thing’s for sure: It’s all about content. As a creator, your earning potential depends on how you use the app, including how your content performs and which monetization strategies you employ. There’s no set formula for monetizing your TikTok, but your potential earnings depend greatly on what you post. That’s why crafting creative, unique, and engaging content that resonates with your followers and grows your audience is key. The more followers you have, the more likely you'll earn substantial money on TikTok. 

If you’re wondering whether you can monetize TikTok videos on YouTube and Facebook, the answer is a bit complicated. Although you can post content created for TikTok on other channels, you’ll have to apply for monetization separately, and each platform has its own specifications for videos. Posts tailored to these other platforms will likely perform better.

In addition to the Creator Fund, there are plenty of ways to get paid on TikTok, including ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing: 

Collaborate with other TikTok creators and micro-influencers to reach a wider audience and grow your following. You can promote each other’s content, host giveaways, and more with fun, short videos. According to the Sprout Social Index, 33% of Gen Z and 28% of millennials value brand and creator content collaborations.

TikTok allows some creators to earn tips and gifts on their posts and LIVE content. Creators receive 100% of the money sent via tips, while gifts award them with Diamonds (an in-app currency), which can be converted into cash.

Earn money on your TikTok account by running ads in your content, also called sponsored posts. Similar to platforms like Instagram and Facebook, some brands and organizations may pay you for featuring their products or services in your videos. Choose companies with similar values to your own. 

Another way to generate money on TikTok is to promote a product or service to your audience and earn commission on sales made through your referral link. We recommend partnering with brands that align with your content! 

Create a Patreon account to earn money through subscription-based memberships. You can use this platform to offer fans exclusive content, personalized shoutouts, and other perks, all for a monthly fee. 

Just like any other freelancer, it’s important to make valuable content if you want your business to flourish. Not sure where to start? Here are a few things you can do to improve your videos, grow your following, and start getting paid: 

One of the most important ways to find success on social media is to simply be yourself. Instead of trying to replicate other creators’ success, share your unique personality, opinions, and experiences with your audience. Users are more likely to engage with genuine content, so when it comes to TikTok, think: What makes you tick? 

Posting new content to TikTok regularly keeps your feed fresh and your audience engaged. Consistency is key — the general consensus seems to be to post at least once daily. This helps you stay top of mind with your followers and increases your chances of going viral. Mix ads and sponsored content with plenty of regular posts to avoid becoming too sales-y. 

Creating content that resonates with your followers means knowing who they are and what they like. Review your analytics to see which videos perform well and which demographics your viewers belong to, and use these details to tailor your content to your unique audience.  

If you’re feeling stuck, look at what your favorite TikTok creators are doing for inspiration. How are they editing their posts? What sounds are they using? What’s their style? Just remember to stay authentic and put your own spin on these inspiring ideas to stay true to your brand.

Following these tips will help you create TikTok content that brands are excited to pay for. Experiment with your posts, analyze your results, and adapt your approach to generate and grow your following over time. 

Navigating TikTok’s app, hashtags, trends, and algorithms is complex; it’s arguably an entire job unto itself! If you’re an Independent or business owner looking to monetize your posts, hiring a content creator is a great way to make the most of this social media platform's offerings. That’s where Contra’s marketplace comes into play. 

We’re a commission-free platform for Independents, including content creators and social media managers. Browse our Discover feed to find your company’s next big thing, or review our blog posts to learn more about navigating TikTok and making money online. Our Slack community is another excellent resource. It’s a friendly place for discussing ideas, exchanging inspiration, and more with other clients and Independents.