TikTok isn’t just for dance trends and lip-syncs anymore—it’s a powerful marketing tool that’s helping small businesses across Australia reach new audiences, build brand loyalty, and drive sales. There are 7 million active users in Australia spending an average of 23 hours a month on the app.
TikTok offers a golden opportunity for small businesses to connect with customers in authentic, creative ways that won’t cost you a lot of money (and it’s fun too!).
How to Get Started on TikTok
Before you join up, be aware that Tik Tok (like all social media) gathers up a lot of information about you. If you would like to read more about privacy and Tik Tok then read this Amnesty International report.
1. Create a TikTok Business Account
Download the TikTok app and sign up.
- Go to your profile → Settings → Switch to Business Account.
- Choose your business category and fill out your bio (keep it short, clear and include a link to your website or store).
2. Understand the TikTok Culture
Spend time exploring the app. Look at trending hashtags, sounds, and formats. Follow creators and businesses in your niche and see what resonates with audiences. Find out what people like and follow. But don’t be afraid to try something new. Tik Tok is all about novelty.
3. Start Creating Content
You don’t need fancy equipment—your phone is enough. Here are some content ideas:
- Behind-the-scenes of your business
- Product demos or tutorials
- Customer testimonials
- Day-in-the-life videos
- Packaging orders or prepping for events
- Anything amusing or fun or just plain stupid
Use trending sounds and hashtags to boost visibility. Add captions for accessibility and engagement.
4. Post Consistently
You don’t have to post every day but consistency helps. Create a content calendar for your self and aim for 2–3 posts per week. Track what performs well and adjust your strategy accordingly. If you are posting about dogs but everyone likes cats – then start writing about cats!
5. Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC)
Encourage customers to share videos using your products. Repost their content (with permission) to build trust and authenticity. Remember, every person who becomes a part of your community is an ambassador for your business.
6. Try TikTok Ads (Optional)
If you’re ready to invest some money then TikTok’s ad platform allows you to target specific demographics. Start small and scale up as you learn what works and how to use the platform. But it’s best to build a following first. Like any kind of advertising – ads work best if you already have an audience.
7. Use the TikTok Creator Marketplace
Collaborate with local influencers or creators who align with your brand. Their endorsement can introduce your business to thousands of potential customers. Be careful and do research. It’s much like hiring a celebrity to do a TV ad. You don’t want someone who might end up discrediting your brand.
Tips for Beginners
- Localise your content: Use Aussie spelling, slang, reference local events or highlight your community roots.
- Be real: TikTok users value authenticity over polish. Don’t worry about being perfect—just be interesting and relatable. Looking amateurish is actually a good thing. Makes you look like a real human being.
- Engage with comments: Responding to viewers builds loyalty and boosts your visibility. This is also a really good way to find out what people like about your business/products but also what they don’t like.
- Track performance: Use TikTok Analytics to monitor views, engagement, and follower growth.
TikTok is more than just a trend—it’s a dynamic platform where small businesses can thrive with creativity, consistency, and a touch of Aussie charm. It doesn’t matter if you’re selling handmade goods, offering services or building a personal brand, TikTok gives you the tools to connect, grow, and stand out.
Real Success Stories from Australia
Here are a few examples of how Aussie businesses have made TikTok work for them:
Golden Brown Coffee (Melbourne)
This speciality coffee roaster garnered a loyal following of over 400K TikTok fans by sharing educational and entertaining coffee content. From latte art tutorials to behind-the-scenes roasting clips, their videos helped build a community and boost online sales.
See them here.
Yard Maintenance Geelong
A viral lawn transformation video launched this local gardening business into the spotlight. The TikTok exposure led to brand collaborations and a surge in bookings, proving that even niche services can thrive on the platform.
See them here.
Chefs and Dogs (Canberra)
This pet-focused business grew to 2.5 million followers by consistently posting fun, light-hearted content featuring dogs and gourmet treats. Their mantra? “Don’t take yourself too seriously”—a perfect fit for TikTok’s audience.
See them here.
Fantastic Furniture
This Aussie furniture brand used a full-funnel campaign on TikTok to drive catalogue sales and reduce conversion costs. Their success shows that even larger retailers can benefit from TikTok’s creative ad formats.
See them here.
