TikTok Advertising Archives - Strike Social https://strikesocial.com/blog/tag/tiktok-advertising/ Thu, 16 Jan 2025 07:16:03 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.6 https://strikesocial.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Strike_LOGO.png TikTok Advertising Archives - Strike Social https://strikesocial.com/blog/tag/tiktok-advertising/ 32 32 Non-sports Brands Can Score Big by Targeting Sports Audiences https://strikesocial.com/blog/non-sports-brands-can-score-big-by-targeting-sports-audiences/ Fri, 31 May 2024 14:16:39 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=257199 Strike Overview Jump to Section How Targeting Sports Audiences Drives Results During Major Sports Events The meteoric rise of powerhouse women athletes like Simone Biles, Alex Morgan, Sabrina Ionescu, and Caitlin Clark exemplifies the surge of sports on social media. Beyond their remarkable achievements in women’s sports, these athletes have each seen their careers skyrocket […]

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Strike Overview

  • Uncertain about whether targeting sports audiences is profitable in paid ads? Consider this: a U.S. poll found that 25% of respondents are sports enthusiasts. That equates to approximately 83 million people you can already reach.
  • Further, the growth of sports betting has shown a consistent 10% CAGR year-on-year, with an estimated value of US$23.80 billion by 2029, highlighting the increasing interest of U.S. audiences in sports and sports-related activities.
  • With sports audiences dominating viewership during peak events, even non-sports brands can achieve significant results by incorporating them into ad targeting strategies.

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How Targeting Sports Audiences Drives Results During Major Sports Events

The meteoric rise of powerhouse women athletes like Simone Biles, Alex Morgan, Sabrina Ionescu, and Caitlin Clark exemplifies the surge of sports on social media. Beyond their remarkable achievements in women’s sports, these athletes have each seen their careers skyrocket and a boost in social media engagement. Comscore reported that women’s sports are becoming mainstream, boosting a 219% YoY social media growth from ESPNW.

This year, the 2024 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament shattered viewership records, capturing the attention of sports fans nationwide. The championship game between the University of South Carolina and the University of Iowa drew 18.7 million average viewers, peaking at over 24 million combined on ESPN and ABC. The 2024 collegiate season marked the first time a women’s final surpassed the viewership of the men’s championship game.

Let’s understand how social media’s influence is pivotal in sports marketing. By examining how brands and advertisers can harness sports-centric content strategically, we can uncover opportunities to enhance campaign engagement, establish emotional connections with audiences, and create brand loyalty.

Sports Teams and Athletes are Becoming Brand Champions

Sports teams and athletes possess universal appeal, enabling businesses to engage with enthusiasts and a broader demographic that may not traditionally follow sports.

These types of content transcend various cultures and demographics, capturing themes of unity, perseverance, and victory that resonate with the masses. Notably, sports fans, regardless of their level of fanaticism, often engage with a team or athlete’s social media pages, especially during significant events.

Targeting Sports Audiences can help reach Caitlin Clark's followers and audiences

Caitlin Clark, a generational talent in the WNCAA, has experienced phenomenal growth on Instagram, mirroring her exceptional career. In September 2021, she had 46,808 followers. Approximately three years before securing the top pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, Clark has amassed a remarkable 1.5 million followers on Instagram. Her follower count surged during her March Madness stint, with approximately 60k new followers in February-March 2022, 350k in February-April 2023, and a staggering one million in February-April 2024.

The prominence of sports fandom on social media has been amplified recently, particularly with the increasing popularity of women athletes filling our social newsfeeds. As a result, brands can capitalize on this surge of engagement by aligning their advertising campaigns with the trending sports buzz. This strategic placement of ads within relevant sports-related content can effectively capture the attention of a wider audience and enhance brand exposure.

Why Should Non-Sports Brands Add Sports Audiences To Their Targeting?

Given the effectiveness of sports teams and athletes as brand advocates, it’s beneficial to understand why non-sports brands should consider including sports audiences in their paid social strategies.

Looking at the example, Caitlin Clark’s explosive growth on social media exemplifies the individual athlete’s influence and the broader potential for brands to tap into these vibrant fan bases and target highly engaging sports content.

Here are three insights on why advertisers should be targeting sports audiences:

1. Broader Market Reach

Sports and athletes provide a gateway to diverse audiences. Lifestyle brands can have a fresh new set of eyes from sports and athlete followers. Sports content usually shows victory, motivation, and perseverance, and brands can harness these themes to enhance their ad narratives.

2. High Engagement Levels

Athletes like Caitlin Clark demonstrate the potential for quality engagement with sports followers on social media platforms. Brands should be around conversation during key sports events. Interaction with sports followers can translate into significant brand awareness and recall.

3. Efficient Personalized Messaging Through Localized Campaigns

During events like the NCAA Finals, geo-targeting specific regions or cities where games are being held or where fan bases are located can be highly effective. Localized campaigns allow for more personalized marketing, leading to higher engagement rates at a lower cost than broader national campaigns.

Sports Audience Targeting in Action

The team used custom affinity audiences in a YouTube ad campaign, balancing sports-centric audience targeting and sustainability interests. The campaign achieved a 13% CPM efficiency for non-skippable ads and a 40% cost reduction in CPV for skippable ads.

An important insight gained was that sports-centric audience targeting worked well with non-skippable ads on connected TVs (CTV). Understanding viewers’ viewing intent based on the device can increase efficiency. For non-skippable ads on larger screens, viewers are likelier to stick around and watch the ad, as they’re consuming long-form sports content like condensed games, replays, analysis, or match breakdowns. Unlike mobile viewers, attention spans are shorter, and viewing intent is mixed.

Balancing the ratio of sports-centric and interest-based, matching the right ad formats, and device targeting are factors that advertisers shouldn’t overlook.

Download our 2024 YouTube HVAC Case Study

By targeting sports audiences, the HVAC brand tapped into its viewer’s interests, leading to significant reach and surpassing view targets through the use of Custom Intent audiences in its YouTube campaign.

Strike Social Blog Header - HVAC Case Study - YouTube Audience Targeting for Canada Campaigns (1)

Social Platforms Ad Tools That You Can Use In Capitalizing Growth in Sports Viewership

Having established the synergy between the explosion in sports viewership and social media, advertisers can now capitalize on the popularity of high-profile sports events by utilizing social platforms as dynamic advertising toolkits. These platforms allow brands to effectively engage with sports fans at all levels by tapping into each platform’s user base’s unique features and consumption habits.

Apart from targeting sports audiences, below are three refined strategies advertisers can employ:

Streamline Endorsements or Brand Partnerships Process

  • TikTok Spark Ads: Collaborate with influential creators to produce authentic branded content. For example, a sports drink brand might partner with fitness influencers on TikTok to create native-looking workout videos that subtly highlight product benefits.
  • Instagram Branded Content: Partner with athletes and influencers to integrate branded messages into their content, enhancing credibility and appeal.
  • YouTube BrandConnect: Work with YouTube publishers and sports content creators to amplify brand narratives within fan communities, fostering deeper connections.

Leverage Specific Features or Ad Placements for Integrated Campaigns

  • Instagram and Facebook Reels, Stories Ads: Use immersive, short-form video content to captivate audiences and drive engagement.
  • YouTube Shorts Ads: Go for bite-sized, visually compelling advertisements to reach viewers and maintain their attention.
  • TikTok Interactive Add-Ons: Boost engagement through interactive elements like stickers, filters, and mini-games, making ad experiences more engaging.

Further Reading

Short-form-Showdown-TikTok-vs-YouTube-Shorts-vs-Reels-Strike-Social
Which Short-Form Ad Platform is Your Go-To?

TikTok pioneered bite-sized videos and quickly became one of the fastest-growing social media platforms. In response, Meta introduced Reels on Instagram and Facebook, while YouTube Shorts soon followed. The question is: which short-form video platform should your brand prioritize?


Utilize Extensive Targeting Capabilities

  • TikTok Hashtag Targeting: Reach audiences based on their interests and behaviors within specific content categories, such as #Olympics2024 or #marchmadness2024
  • Facebook and Instagram Behavioral and Connection-Based Targeting: Target users precisely based on their interests, online activities, and connections to sports-related pages and groups.
  • YouTube’s Access to CTV, Affinity, and In-Market Audiences: Exploit advanced targeting options to reach highly relevant audiences across devices and platforms, optimizing for viewers actively looking for sports content or related products.
TikTok-hashtags-related-to-Olympics-2024
YouTube-in-feed-targeting-to-sports-audiences

If you’re looking to harness the power of sports fandom in your marketing campaigns and see real efficiencies in targeting sports fans, our team is ready to assist.

We understand the dynamics of sports marketing and the unique opportunities it presents on social platforms. By partnering with us, you’ll access data-centric insights that can transform your advertising efforts.

The post Non-sports Brands Can Score Big by Targeting Sports Audiences appeared first on Strike Social.

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TikTok’s 55+ Age Group Invigorates Health Campaign CPM by 37% https://strikesocial.com/blog/tiktok-55-plus-age-group-health-campaign/ Tue, 23 Apr 2024 16:12:42 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=231955 Tapping into the right audience can transform an advertising campaign from good to groundbreaking – our TikTok case study shows how the 55+ age group became a pivotal demographic for one of our health campaigns. A US Healthcare brand that raised awareness about critical healthcare services did that by honing in on an often-overlooked demographic: […]

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Strike Social Case Study - average minutes on TikTok per day among US adults, by age, 2024

Tapping into the right audience can transform an advertising campaign from good to groundbreaking – our TikTok case study shows how the 55+ age group became a pivotal demographic for one of our health campaigns. A US Healthcare brand that raised awareness about critical healthcare services did that by honing in on an often-overlooked demographic: the 55+ age group. This strategic focus led to a 37% reduction in Cost-Per-Thousand Impressions (CPM), setting a new benchmark for efficiency and engagement in health-focused advertising.

How Targeting 55+ Audiences Boosted TikTok Campaign Efficiency

The primary goal was clear: amplify awareness of vital healthcare services through a powerful TikTok campaign. The strategy was to geo-target in-feed ads to men and women aged 25+, supplemented with carefully chosen health and wellness hashtags. This approach was designed to weave the campaign’s messaging seamlessly into broader conversations around health and wellness on the platform. With this approach, we seamlessly wove the campaign’s messaging into broader conversations around health and wellness on the platform.

The campaign utilized precise localized ad targeting, using specific zip codes to enhance ad relevance and engagement rates, effectively reducing wasted impressions. Furthermore, by including older demographics, specifically the 45+ age group, the campaign tapped into an audience that engages more deeply with content. This increased video completion rates and improved the campaign’s standing with TikTok’s algorithm, reducing the overall CPM.

A broad array of relevant hashtags—from #HealthAndFitness to #WellnessMotivation—was strategically employed to expand the campaign’s reach. This use of hashtags ensured the ads appeared in more relevant searches and feeds, attracting genuinely interested health and wellness viewers, significantly reducing ad costs.

This TikTok campaign demonstrates the untapped potential of older age groups in the healthcare and wellness sector. By strategically targeting the 55+ demographic, the campaign improved engagement and efficiency and set a new standard for optimizing health campaigns’ reach and impact.

Interested in how Strike Social can help invigorate your health campaign with tailored social media strategies? Book a meeting today for a quick discussion about how we can transform your digital advertising efforts and achieve remarkable results.

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Can Advertisers Overcome the Challenges of a Potential TikTok Ban in the US? https://strikesocial.com/blog/can-advertisers-overcome-the-challenges-of-a-potential-tiktok-ban-in-the-us/ Thu, 28 Mar 2024 17:35:25 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=209347 Strike Overview Jump to Section Get exclusive content on paid social media. Join our mailing list for the latest updates. This post was updated in January 2025 to provide you with the latest information. After News of the US TikTok Ban, How Can You Shift Your Social Media Ad Strategies? The latest U.S. TikTok ban […]

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Strike Overview

  • The looming news of the US TikTok ban is sending ripples through its community. Although TikTok has only been around for less than a decade, it has captured the hearts of 150 million users in the US alone. 
  • The ease with which TikTok was adopted raises the question: will it be as easy to move on from it? While Meta Reels and YouTube Shorts emerge as the next top advertising platforms, are TikTok users truly ready to make the switch?
  • With growing concerns, brands must peer into the horizon and consider the possibilities ahead in the wake of this recent development.

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This post was updated in January 2025 to provide you with the latest information.

After News of the US TikTok Ban, How Can You Shift Your Social Media Ad Strategies?

The latest U.S. TikTok ban updates include a tentative shutdown date set for January 19, users migrating to another Chinese social app called RedNote, and incoming President-elect Trump planning to attempt saving the app after his inauguration.

Despite the challenges posed by the upcoming TikTok ban, it seems that the concerns primarily stem from lawmakers, attributed to their limited understanding of the technology, rather than from the US audience, which has shown remarkable composure. While significant and deserving of attention, the situation about the US TikTok ban presents an opportunity for us to prepare you for the inevitable and forthcoming shift.

The Uncertain Future Post-TikTok Ban

It all started in 2020 when then-US President Donald Trump viewed TikTok as a national security threat and announced that the government was considering banning the app. Fast forward to March 13, 2024, when the Senate passed the bill approving the legislation that forces TikTok to sell ownership from a Chinese-owned company to a United States-owned one.

While the TikTok app may not be a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE), ByteDance has a diverse ownership structure: 60% by global investors, including those from the U.S., 20% by its Chinese co-founders, and 20% by its employees, which includes thousands in the U.S.


Further Reading

Strike Social Blog Cover (2025 Update) - Marketers’ Reaction to The Restriction of TikTok in the United States
Map Out the U.S. TikTok Ban Timeline

Reflect on TikTok’s evolution in the US—from a platform for dance trends and viral skits to a centerpiece of national security debates. Explore the multifaceted story of the app’s rise and the controversies that have culminated in TikTok being banned from government access and potentially from US users entirely.


What the Media is Talking About

Vogue Business news on TikTok ban in the US - disrupting creator ecosystem
The Washington Post article re US TikTok ban - Can Trump save TikTok

Despite ongoing discussions and legislative actions in the works for months, TikTok’s popularity remains strong. However, the threat of the U.S. TikTok ban is a real possibility. This raises important questions for advertisers about adapting and preparing for a future that might change TikTok’s operations drastically.

What Does the Bill to Ban TikTok Mean for Future Campaigns?

Should it retain its affiliation with ByteDance, its Chinese parent company, the potential ban of TikTok in the United States presents a complex scenario for advertisers utilizing the platform. Here, we examine what such a scenario could mean for brands and advertisers capitalizing on TikTok views and engagement:

Reach and Targeting Challenges

  • With the TikTok app banned, a primary consequence would be the immediate loss of the US audience demographic. Advertisers who have been targeting American users might find themselves asking, “Why can’t I target USA on TikTok ads?”
  • The answer lies in the unavailability of TikTok within the United States, compelling those who wish to reach American consumers to pivot towards TikTok local ads. 

Accessibility of Digital Assets on TikTok

  • Another significant hurdle would be accessing the digital assets you have uploaded on TikTok, including videos, music, and your TikTok shop.
  • As TikTok and its users brace for the impending ban, the app will provide an option for users to download their data to retain their personal information. Once the U.S. TikTok ban goes into effect, the videos uploaded may become inaccessible, requiring creators and brands to download what they can while they still have the chance.
  • Although TikTok has tried to store US user data within domestic data centers in Northern Virginia and Hillsboro, these measures may not suffice to ensure access to these assets once the TikTok ban is implemented.

Budget Allocation Concerns

  • The legislative journey towards potentially banning TikTok, stretching over four years, has already sparked widespread concern among advertisers regarding their ad budget allocations on the platform.
  • For advertisers who have already set their 2025 budgets and are concerned about the US TikTok ban, the risks are becoming increasingly tangible. It is crucial for advertisers to stay cautious and adaptable with their budget planning, especially for mid-Q1 2025 and beyond.

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How Can TikTok Advertisers Adapt to the Change?

The possibility of TikTok being banned in the U.S. is becoming increasingly likely. Even if a request for another 270-day extension is approved, delaying the ban until October, TikTok advertisers in the U.S. must take proactive steps to adjust their strategies.

Below are key approaches to consider in light of the uncertain future concerning TikTok getting banned in the U.S.:

Adjusting your Audience Targeting Strategy

If the United States is no longer available for targeting, you can adjust your location targeting settings within TikTok Ads Manager. This is particularly useful for international brands, ensuring that budgets are not wasted on an unavailable US audience.

Alternatively, you can identify countries with significant US/American tourist populations as alternative targets. This approach helps maintain engagement with American users indirectly, for example, through their top travel destinations. For instance, the top 5 American travel destinations in 2024 that can be targeted on TikTok are United Kingdom*, Canada, Japan, Indonesia, and Italy.

* Targeting the United Kingdom (GB) is only available for managed accounts in Australia (AU).

Safeguarding Digital Assets

In anticipation of TikTok assets potentially becoming inaccessible, consider migrating them to alternative platforms like Meta and YouTube. Expanding to these platforms secures your assets and opens up new avenues for short-form video advertising.

  • Reels is dominating on Facebook and Instagram, with users spending approximately two-thirds of their time engaging with video content. Moreover, Instagram alone is projected to account for over 50% of U.S. ad spend in 2025.
  • Advertisers transitioning to Shorts in 2025 should note that 43% of U.S. ad buyers are already active in this space. Optimizing YouTube ad costs is achievable with the support of the right AdTech agency. By leveraging the flexibility to optimize across Shorts, feed, and even CTV, you can achieve high performance at competitive costs.

Keep producing vertical, short-form content to align with your audience’s established viewing habits and preferences, ensuring a consistent user experience across platforms.

Budgetary Considerations and Planning

Anticipate potential changes by formulating a plan that includes TikTok but also consider a strategic reallocation of your budget towards alternative platforms.

For instance, in planning a Super Bowl 2025 campaign where TikTok is a primary channel, consider reducing its budget while increasing allocations for Meta and YouTube. Here’s an example:

Budget-allocation-post-US-TikTok-ban

This strategy involves adjusting the advertising budget, initially allocating 50% to TikTok in Q3 2024, then reducing it to 40% by Q4 2024. To address anticipated changes proactively, the plan includes further decreasing the TikTok budget to 25% by Q1 2025. The funds saved from this reduction will be shifted towards YouTube advertising, capitalizing on its Shorts feature, which closely mirrors the short-form video format popularized by TikTok.

By proactively adjusting audience targeting settings, migrating digital assets, and reevaluating budget allocations, you can stay ahead and maintain your brand’s advertising strategies with minimal disruption.

What Opportunities Lie Ahead for TikTok Advertisers?

With the US TikTok ban on the horizon, it’s evident that adaptability is key. The risk of TikTok becoming inaccessible overnight highlights the need for proactive planning and strategic foresight. Being caught off-guard by TikTok’s potential exit from the US market could significantly impact your advertising efforts. Still, with the right tools, you can turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.

Collaborating with an advertising partner capable of navigating these uncertainties is crucial. Our experienced team offers essential insights for expanding your advertising to other platforms, preparing you for any outcome of the U.S. TikTok ban. Arrange a consultation with us to explore how your advertising strategies can continue to thrive.

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Marketers’ Reaction to The Restriction of TikTok in the United States https://strikesocial.com/blog/marketers-reaction-to-the-restriction-of-tiktok-in-the-united-states/ Wed, 27 Mar 2024 17:36:23 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=209315 Strike Overview Jump to Section Get exclusive content on paid social media. Join our mailing list for the latest updates. This post was updated in January 2025 to provide you with the latest information. Restriction of TikTok in the United States & Marketers’ Next Move The ticking clock on the restriction of TikTok in the […]

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Strike Overview

  • The restriction of TikTok in the United States began in 2022 when President Joe Biden signed the No TikTok on Government Devices Act, prohibiting the app on federally owned devices.
  • The motion gained momentum in 2024, fueled by concerns over ByteDance, the Chinese-owned company behind TikTok, CapCut, and other apps. If ByteDance fails to secure a U.S. buyer, the push for a complete ban on TikTok in the U.S. will likely persist.
  • Based on the TikTok ban timeline, the app could become unavailable as early as January 19, 2025. With uncertainty looming, marketers must understand the implications and prepare for their next strategic move.

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This post was updated in January 2025 to provide you with the latest information.

Restriction of TikTok in the United States & Marketers’ Next Move

The ticking clock on the restriction of TikTok in the United States grows louder each day. As US TikTok app users closer to the possibility of a ban, the platform’s vibrant community, encompassing a wide range of demographics, faces an uncertain future.

The concerns surrounding TikTok go beyond its user base, as marketers globally prepare for potential disruptions to advertising strategies and content creation if the full restriction of TikTok in the United States moves forward.

To fully grasp this complex debate, we must look back at TikTok’s evolution in the US. It’s a tale of transformation—from a hub for dance trends and viral skits to a focal point of national security discussions. Join us as we unpack the multifaceted narrative of the app’s ascent and the ensuing controversies that have led to increasing TikTok restrictions in the US.

See a snapshot of the pivotal moments that have shaped TikTok’s journey in the US, underscoring the app’s ascent and the controversies that have threatened its presence.

The evolving narrative around TikTok’s operational challenges in the US  speaks a broader conversation about digital privacy, national security, and the future of international tech companies on American soil.

For marketers who have found efficacy and opportunity on the platform, the looming question is not just hypothetical but pressing: ‘What are the next steps after hearing the news about the restriction of TikTok in the United States?”

TikTok US Ban timeline 2019 to 2025 (Updated)

Why Panicking Shouldn’t Be On Your 2025 TikTok Advertising Strategy

The motion for TikTok restrictions in US has caused fear and panic among many users, creators, and advertisers. Headlines scream “Ban TikTok!” while social media feeds are flooded with speculation and lists of “Here’s what to do”. But before hitting the panic button, let’s take a deep breath and separate fact from fiction based on the recent news about the restrictions of TikTok in the United States.

Focusing on Facts Rather than Fear

Unfortunately, the uncertainty surrounding TikTok getting banned has become a breeding ground of confusion and baseless decisions. Here are some common anxieties we’ll discuss and give light:

Complete TikTok Ban Imminent

  • While the US House has proposed a nationwide ban in 2024, the enactment could take effect by January 19, 2025. The situation is constantly evolving, with ongoing discussions and investigations. There’s still many discussions going on, such as TikTok appealing to President-elect Donald Trump, showing his stats from the last election and how TikTok views boosted him amongst other candidates.
  • However, shall the full restrictions of TikTok in the United States take effect, this would impact not only the general public but also government devices and all government contracts. This includes personal devices used for federal contract work. To determine if your company is exempt from these restrictions, consider conducting an EPLS search.

Data Vanishing Act

  • Users worried about losing all their data can find some solace here. Since June 2022, TikTok claims to have transferred US user data to Oracle servers in the US. However, skepticism persists regarding China’s potential data access.
Trump likely to halt TikTok restrictions in US
Source: Truth Social

Safekeeping Content

  • Similar to having a window to access the data, even in a scenario when complete TikTok restrictions take place, users can download their data –  photos, videos, and other content.

The Fall of the TikTok Influencer

  • Geographical restrictions may not signal the end of influencer marketing fueled by TikTok Spark Ads.
  • Many influencers and creators are already pivoting to alternative platforms and reshaping their strategies to cultivate fresh audiences from the ground up.

Further Reading

Short-form-Showdown-TikTok-vs-YouTube-Shorts-vs-Reels-Strike-Social
YouTube Shorts vs. Reels: What’s the Next Go-To Short-Form Platform

With a potential TikTok ban looming in the US, advertisers should keep their options open. Between YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels, which short-form platform should you turn to next?


TikTok Community Adaptation

  • If a ban happens, it’s unlikely to be immediate. The restriction of TikTok in the United States would give advertisers time to adjust their strategies and explore alternative platforms that might emerge to fill the gap.
  • Businesses and creators should be ready to follow where the TikTok Nomads will eventually find their new home.

Short-Term Effects of Full TikTok Restrictions for U.S. Advertisers

Advertisers who have decided to stand still and tell their clients “Business As Usual” right after the news breaks out may reap their rewards.

Surge of Ad Costs on Other Short-Form Platforms

The ripple effect of TikTok restrictions in the US could catalyze a redistribution of ad budgets across paid social platforms.

Once ad money started to steer away from TikTok, advertisers might feel the tilt of price movement when comparing ad cost to other major short-form video platforms such as YouTube and Meta. This heightened activity might initially drive up ad costs.

Loyalty to TikTok May Still Pay Off

Moreover, the departure of brands who advertise on TikTok, anticipating a ban, opens up the floor for lower competition on the platform. This scenario creates a more open playing field for those who choose to stay, offering enhanced visibility and potentially higher engagement rates at lower costs.

Remember, the users did not leave the platform, and TikTok’s average time spent on the platform continues to rise. Isn’t that the land filled with milk and honey for the TikTok advertisers?

New Avenues to Discover when Diverting TikTok Ads

Lastly, the rise of emerging platforms in the wake of TikTok’s challenges could spotlight new advertising opportunities. These platforms will likely introduce innovative targeting options and deeper audience insights, offering fresh avenues to explore and capitalize on.

YouTube has developed its ad solutions by adding YouTube Shorts to its ad placements (Video Action Campaign, Video View Campaign, and Video Reach Campaign).

Further, Facebook is supercharging Reels by adding it to their sales-driven campaign objective, shopping ads.

How Do We React About The Restriction of TikTok in the United States

In today’s lens, the news of TikTok getting banned may seem like a hurdle, but it can also be an opportunity for growth and efficacy. Businesses that remain adaptable and embrace change will be well-positioned to thrive in the evolving digital landscape.

Advertisers should stay on their fingers about the latest developments surrounding the ban and potential timelines.  From a long-term perspective, advertisers can prevent TikTok doom’s day by diversifying their marketing strategies by exploring alternative platforms and tailoring content to each platform’s specific audience and format. Remember, strong content that resonates with your target audience is the backbone of any successful digital marketing campaign, regardless of your chosen platform.

For short sprints of TikTok ad campaigns, media buyers may see efficiency once the room filled with buyers starts emptying some space due to moving ad money away from TikTok. Remaining proactive, creative, and data-driven, you can transform uncertainty into a springboard for success in the ever-changing world of digital marketing.

If you want to talk more about the possible effects and what to do next about the news around the restriction of TikTok in the United States, feel free to contact our Strike experts.

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Get Familiar With TikTok Ad Creative Policies And Avoid Ads Rejection https://strikesocial.com/blog/get-familiar-with-tiktok-ad-creative-policies-and-avoid-ads-rejection/ Tue, 29 Aug 2023 11:04:23 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=71377 When it comes to TikTok, tossing your video ad into the mix without a thought to TikTok ad creative policies won’t cut it. With a potential reach of 109,538,000 in the US alone, TikTok commits to taking its ad content distribution seriously. Furthermore, every eligible ad undergoes a thorough examination to ensure it’s community-friendly and […]

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When it comes to TikTok, tossing your video ad into the mix without a thought to TikTok ad creative policies won’t cut it. With a potential reach of 109,538,000 in the US alone, TikTok commits to taking its ad content distribution seriously. Furthermore, every eligible ad undergoes a thorough examination to ensure it’s community-friendly and meets stringent user safety standards.

Beyond analyzing the appropriate creative structure of a TikTok ad, an essential technical aspect of creating a TikTok ad is ensuring it adheres to the platform’s video length limits and falls within the boundaries of the TikTok Ad creative policies. Let this blog guide you on how to craft TikTok ad campaigns that are both compliant and effective.

Crafting Campaigns that Comply: Mastering TikTok Ad Creative Policies

During the era of the TikTok followers boosts, in early 2021, 1,829,219 TikTok ads were in the rejection pile. Moreover, this is due to these ads’ non-compliance with TikTok’s ad creative policies and guidelines. 

To avoid being shut down by the TikTok Compliant Team, advertisers must carefully consider the rules that govern which ads are permissible on TikTok and which aren’t. To maintain a consistent and professional appearance on the platform, adhering to TikTok ad branding requirements is crucial for every advertiser.

Failing to comply doesn’t just result in ad rejection—it can damage your brand’s reputation and credibility.

What Are The Key Elements of TikTok’s Ad Creative Policies?

Regarding TikTok’s ad creative policies, there’s more to consider than just the content of your video ad. Let’s break down the essential elements that advertisers need to be aware of:

TikTok Ad Content Restrictions within Your Video Ad

While crafting your ad, you must familiarize yourself with TikTok ad call-to-action rules to ensure your audience is directed appropriately without violating any guidelines.

Prohibited and restricted content:

TikTok has a comprehensive list of businesses that are allowed and not allowed to advertise on the platform. Based on the line of business, you may not be able to advertise in the first place. In addition, the same rules apply to TikTok-sponsored content:

No display of tobacco & tobacco related products
No display of scenes of drinking (selected regions)
No display of any inappropriate content involving minors in any way
No display or mention of drugs & drug-related products
No depiction of dangerous or illegal behavior
No hate speech against any individual or group(s)
This also includes topics or content prohibited by TikTok ad creative policies:
• Smoking
• Adult & sexual content (Sexually suggestive actions through text, gestures, and clothing; Excessive female skin exposure)

Ad format:

Aside from the images or videos you use in your ad, TikTok makes a point to check that the texts and targeting used align with TikTok ad compliance. Visual appeal is paramount in TikTok ads, but aligning with TikTok ad image guidelines is equally important to ensure your visuals are captivating and compliant.

Grammatical or spelling mistakesSpelling mistake(s) in the Ad Creative should be avoided
Ad language and targetingDepends on the country – widely used language in the country of targeting must be used
Ad consistencyAd Creative must be consistent with the promoted product or service on the Landing Page
Sensational and shocking contentDisturbing images
e.g. Severe skin conditions
Coarse language & insults
Blood & gore
Misleading claims and inconsistent informationBefore and After
Exaggerated description
Performance promise
Malicious comparison (better than xx brand)
Absolute claims (#1 game…)
e.g. ad creative says 50% off, but LP says 25% off
Infringement protectionCopyright & trademark

Related article: A Guide To DMA Geo-targeting On Tiktok: Reaching Location-based Audience

TikTok Advertising Rules Outside Your Video Ad

TikTok’s policies extend beyond the video ad itself. The linked landing page must also be under TikTok ad design guidelines. If your advertisement includes any claims or endorsements, follow the TikTok ad disclaimer guidelines to maintain transparency and trustworthiness.

  • Prohibited products or services, like gambling tools and certain weight loss products, must not appear on your landing page, regardless of what’s being promoted in your TikTok ad.
tiktok ad creative policies no weight loss products on landing page

Suggestion: If you have other products on your website that fall under TikTok ad content restrictions, dedicate your landing page exclusively to the product you’re advertising on TikTok. This ensures compliance while allowing you to market your full range of products elsewhere on your site.

  • Consistency between ad claims and landing page offers is crucial to avoid misleading users. For example, if you offer 50% off on your video ad, your landing page must not say 20% off. It must be consistent with your offer of 50% off on TikTok.
tiktok ad creative policies consistency on product offer on ad and landing page

Suggestion: If you have distinct offers for different platforms (e.g., 50% off for TikTok users and 30% off for Instagram users), consider creating separate landing pages and checkout links for each promotion. Alternatively, employing platform-specific promo codes is a savvy way to maintain clarity and accuracy.

Related article: How does TikTok Uphold Brand Safety and Suitability for its Community and Advertisers?

What Are The Consequences of Violating TikTok Advertising Policies on Ad Creatives?

Before finalizing and submitting your ad for review, it’s best to go through the TikTok ad compliance checklist, ensuring every aspect of your advertisement meets the platform’s standards. 

  • Rejected ads: The platform has a team of reviewers who carefully screen all ads as part of the TikTok ad approval process. It can be rejected if an ad violates the TikTok ad creative policies.
  • Ad bans: If an advertiser repeatedly violates the TikTok ad design guidelines, their ads may be banned from the platform. This means that you may no longer be able to run ads on TikTok.
  • Account suspension: If an advertiser violates TikTok’s policies seriously, their account may be suspended. This means that the advertiser cannot use TikTok, including running ads.

It’s worth noting that the TikTok Ad Review process might offer a lifeline for some rejected ads through the appeal avenue. Yet, envision how much smoother your campaign setup journey could be if you abide by the best practices for TikTok ad creatives and sidestep this strenuous process to gain swift approval.

Let Your TikTok Ads Captivate Attention and Sidestep Rejection

Grab attention and avoid rejection. Behind the scenes of this viral platform lies a rigorous evaluation process that every ad undergoes. Each ad that adheres to these policies becomes a catalyst for meaningful and impactful user interaction.

As you venture into TikTok advertising, remember that your ad’s success isn’t just about being seen; it’s about adhering to the platform policies to get your brand out there. Compliance with the TikTok ad creative policies charts the path to ad resonance, relevance, and lasting influence.

The post Get Familiar With TikTok Ad Creative Policies And Avoid Ads Rejection appeared first on Strike Social.

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TikTok Pulse FAQ and Setup Guide: Maximizing Engagement Around Organic Content https://strikesocial.com/blog/tiktok-pulse-guide/ Mon, 03 Apr 2023 16:11:45 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=5476 TikTok Pulse is a revolutionary revenue-sharing program and advertising feature that transforms how brands engage with their target audience on TikTok. Whether your brand falls under popular content categories like dance, comedy, food and cooking, fashion and beauty, or home renovations/DIY, TikTok Pulse can help you tap into a massive audience and connect with your […]

The post TikTok Pulse FAQ and Setup Guide: Maximizing Engagement Around Organic Content appeared first on Strike Social.

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TikTok Pulse is a revolutionary revenue-sharing program and advertising feature that transforms how brands engage with their target audience on TikTok. Whether your brand falls under popular content categories like dance, comedy, food and cooking, fashion and beauty, or home renovations/DIY, TikTok Pulse can help you tap into a massive audience and connect with your desired community. TikTok Pulse allows brands to showcase their content alongside the top 4% performing clips of the day, generating maximum visibility and engagement. This article will provide a step-by-step guide to TikTok Pulse and its unique benefits.

TikTok Pulse is a game-changer for advertisers who want to make their mark on the platform and connect with their target audience meaningfully and effectively. So if you want to take your advertising campaigns to the next level, TikTok Pulse might be the tool you need!

Is TikTok Pulse different from Spark Ads?

TikTok Pulse and Spark Ads are two powerful tools brands can leverage to enhance their online presence and increase their customer base. Although both aim to boost brand awareness and expand reach, their strategies and implementation differ.

TikTok FeaturesTikTok Spark AdsTikTok Pulse
DefinitionPosts created by influencers in partnership with a brandContextual advertising feature for brands
VisibilityThe post is labeled as ‘sponsored’. Appears in users’ home feed.Ads are placed next to similar, top-performing Creator content in For You feed
TargetingTargets users who don’t follow the influencer or brandMatches brand ads with relevant creator content
Matching with contentCombines UGC and targeted advertisingMatches brand ads with relevant Creator content
ObjectivePromote brand awareness and reach a wider audienceBring brands into the community and break down barriers
Revenue SharingNAAd revenue split 50-50 with Creators

TikTok Pulse is an innovative contextual advertising feature that allows brands to align their ads with the top-performing content on the platform. This feature enables advertisers to maximize brand exposure by targeting specific audiences with engaging content. With 12 categories, including beauty, fashion, and gaming, Pulse offers a broad range of options to cater to the audience’s interests.

Moreover, TikTok Pulse offers a revenue-sharing program with creators, ensuring a fair 50-50 split of the generated ad revenue. This feature allows creators to benefit from the ads they help promote and incentivizes them to produce more engaging content. Thus, it fosters a positive relationship between advertisers and creators on the platform.

In contrast, TikTok Spark Ads are organic posts in partnership with a brand, promoted as ads in users’ home feeds. These ads appear even for users who do not follow the influencer or brand, labeled as ‘sponsored.’ Unlike Pulse, Spark Ads do not have revenue sharing with creators and are centered on user-generated content and targeted advertising.

Pulse and Spark Ads are effective tools for brands to promote their products or services on TikTok. However, it is important to note that advertisers can choose to run either a Spark Ad or a Non-Spark Ad as creative in running a TikTok Pulse campaign. This flexibility allows brands to optimize their campaigns based on their goals and target audience.

TikTok Pulse FAQ and Setup Guide: Maximizing Engagement Around Organic Content

Related article: TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads: What Marketers Should know,

TikTok Pulse Set-up Guide

Are you keen on launching a successful TikTok Pulse campaign? The key to achieving this goal is opening a TikTok Ads Manager account. This account will be your central hub for managing all your TikTok campaigns. After setting up your account, you can log in and view your dashboard to keep track of all your campaigns and monitor their performance.

Campaign Level

  1. Open TikTok Ads Manager > Click Create an Ad under the Campaign section
  2. Under buying type, Select Reach and Frequency
  3. Click Reach in Advertising objective
  4. Select TikTok Pulse
  5. Enter Campaign Name 
  6. Click Continue

Ad Group Level

1. Ad Group Name

  • Select an Ad Group Name

2. Audience Targeting 

  • Choose parameters for targeting options such as audience, demographics, interest, and device.
  • Refer to the TikTok Pulse Planning Packet (provided by your TikTok sales lead) for targeting recommendations.

3. Contextual Targeting

Confirm that Standard Feed is selected in the “Feed Type” section

Select TikTok Pulse content lineups in the “Content Topics” setting. (Do not select anything under “General content“)

“All Pulse” is the default state, meaning all Pulse content lineups are auto-selected. You should target All Pulse and allow the system to find the lineups that best match your audience and the given creative

To target specific lineups, choose 4 to 5 lineups. Select content lineups that resonate with the “audience” you are targeting. Targeting fewer than 4 lineups may impact the forecast for available inventory and/or reach.

4. Confirm that the Limited Inventory filter is auto-selected in “Content Exclusions.”

5. In “Schedule,” choose a date range when you want your ad to start running

  • Ad delivery will begin at 12:00 AM in the timezone of the country/region selected in Location and end at 11:59 PM every day
  • Ad scheduling can be set up to 225 days in advance
  • Ad delivery can be scheduled to start within 1 to 90 days
  • Ad Groups must be created at least 1 day before ad delivery

6. Choose a reservation purchase method in “Reservation.”

  • You can choose either Budget, Impressions, Reach or Reach Percentage.

7. Confirm that Reach is set to auto-selected in “Optimization Goal.”

8. Choose how often you want your ads to appear by selecting a “Frequency Cap.”

9. Select your desired delivery mode in the “Ad sequencing & Schedule” tab when using multiple creatives in your ad campaign.

  • Learn more about Multiple Creative Delivery Service

10. Once you have created your Ad Group, click Next to see the “Submit Order” and “Reserve Audience” screen.

11. Reserve your ad without attaching your creative by clicking Submit Order.

12. To add your creative, click Continue to Add. Then proceed to Ad level setup.

13. If you need to create additional Ad Groups for Pulse lineups, navigate back to the Create page in Step 1, go to “Use existing” in the Campaign level section, select the existing campaign, then repeat Steps 1-12 to set up a new Ad Group

Ad Level

1. Type the Ad Name

2. Select the options you want to display for your Identity, including a Display Name, Text, and Profile Image.

  • You can also run a Spark Ad as your Pulse creative

3. Upload a video in your Ad Creative

4. Add any Interactive add-ons

5. Set your Destination page options, which can include adding a website URL and/or adding CTA buttons

6. Add any pixels or tracking URLs

7. You can add additional ads by clicking the +Add button. Repeat Steps 3-6 if you wish to add more ads

8. When you are satisfied with your ads, click Submit to send them to the review queue

For more information, visit TikTok Business Help Center

TikTok Pulse FAQs

How Does TikTok Pulse Work?

TikTok Pulse is an advanced contextual targeting product designed to help advertisers maximize exposure and engagement for their brand. With TikTok Pulse, you can purchase ad slots that are immediately matched with relevant creator niches based on various categories of Pulse content. This targeting approach ensures that your ads are displayed alongside verified content, promoting brand safety.

Pulse ads are benchmarked based on views and engagement to ensure your brand is associated with trending content and reaches a wider audience. This approach guarantees that your brand’s message is aligned with culturally-relevant content, allowing you to achieve your advertising goals effectively.

What are the TikTok Pulse Lineups?

TikTok Pulse Lineups are top categories, such as Beauty, Sports, Gaming, Art & Animation, and others, that enable advertisers to reach their desired audience effectively. Your ads will be displayed in the “For You” feed after a popular and relevant TikTok video from your chosen Pulse Lineup.

TikTok Pulse uses a proprietary scoring system to identify the top 4% of culturally-relevant videos across each category daily. This approach ensures your ads are placed alongside the most engaging and relevant content. Various signals such as engagement, video views, recent growth, creator engagement signals, and brand safety and suitability signals are considered to calculate a video’s score.

What Are the Objectives Available for TikTok Pulse?

TikTok Pulse offers advertisers two buying options: Reach & Frequency (Reach objective only) and two ad formats: In-feed Spark Ads or Non-Spark Ads. These placement options and ad formats enable advertisers to connect with their desired audience effectively and achieve their marketing goals on TikTok.

Is TikTok Pulse Available for Everyone?

TikTok Pulse offers advertisers two buying options: Reach & Frequency (Reach objective only) and two ad formats: In-feed Spark Ads or Non-Spark Ads. These placement options and ad formats enable advertisers to connect with their desired audience effectively and achieve their marketing goals on TikTok.

Is TikTok Pulse Available for Everyone?

TikTok Pulse is currently only available to a select number of allow-listed advertisers in the US. Content creators must also meet specific criteria, including having at least 100,000 followers, posting at least five videos within the last 30 days, and being 18 or older to qualify.

Related article: TikTok Brand Awareness Ad Objective: An Opportunity Media Buyers Should Know About

Why Should You Use TikTok Pulse?

TikTok Pulse has emerged as a powerful tool for advertisers looking to expand their reach and engagement on the platform. By aligning their ads with top-performing content, brands can leverage popular content that resonates with their target audience, resulting in higher engagement and brand loyalty. It’s a win-win situation for both parties, as TikTok Pulse’s revenue-sharing program enables brands to engage with creators and participate in ongoing conversations actively.

One of the most exciting features of TikTok Pulse is the greater control it gives brands over their advertising campaigns and budget. Advertisers can choose between a Spark Ad or a non-Spark Ad as creative in a TikTok Pulse campaign, maximizing their advertising ROI and connecting with their target audience meaningfully and effectively with user-generated content.

Moreover, TikTok Pulse provides a unique opportunity for brands to drive engagement among diverse communities. By featuring alongside the top 4% of creators and videos on TikTok, brands can gain maximum exposure. Advertisers can also use TikTok’s 12 brand safety categories to place ads next to relevant content, connecting with their desired communities.

With TikTok’s inventory filter, ads run adjacent to verified content with high levels of brand suitability, providing brands with confidence in the safety of their ads. Brands can also use third-party brand suitability and viewability verification tools to analyze the effectiveness of their campaigns post-launch.

Overall, TikTok Pulse is an innovative and game-changing platform for advertisers looking to optimize their reach and engagement on TikTok. With its powerful features and tools, brands can achieve their marketing goals and create a lasting impression on their target audience. It’s a great opportunity for businesses to tap into the power of social media and connect with their audience more meaningfully.

The post TikTok Pulse FAQ and Setup Guide: Maximizing Engagement Around Organic Content appeared first on Strike Social.

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Exploring the Metrics: How TikTok Measures Video Views on Ads (2024 Update) https://strikesocial.com/blog/tiktok-video-view-ads-metrics/ Mon, 27 Mar 2023 14:13:24 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=5469 Strike Overview Jump to Section This post was updated in October 2024 to provide you with the latest information. The past five years have shown us one clear trend in digital advertising: consumer behavior has shifted dramatically, with a significant rise in both social commerce and video consumption. Among all the social media advertising networks, […]

The post Exploring the Metrics: How TikTok Measures Video Views on Ads (2024 Update) appeared first on Strike Social.

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Strike Overview

  • As a video-centric platform, TikTok’s key advertising metric is video views, focusing on how long users engage with your content and how quickly they take action, like clicking your link after watching the ad.
  • TikTok has evolved beyond entertainment; 48% of users now actively follow or research brands and products on the app, making it a critical component of any brand’s media strategy.
  • With 90% of users opening TikTok multiple times daily, it’s vital for brands to capture attention quickly, engaging viewers within the first few seconds before they scroll away.

Jump to Section

This post was updated in October 2024 to provide you with the latest information.

The past five years have shown us one clear trend in digital advertising: consumer behavior has shifted dramatically, with a significant rise in both social commerce and video consumption. Among all the social media advertising networks, TikTok has seen an unprecedented surge in video ad views, indicating a massive increase in user engagement.

Contrary to popular belief, the data so far shows that it’s not just the younger generation that is fixated on the #FYP; people of all ages and backgrounds are tuning in. With thousands of viral videos, from #BookTok to #CleanTok, TikTok has established itself as a formidable social video platform industry contender.

From 2-Second Views to Full Plays: Exploring TikTok’s Video View Ad Metrics

Despite concerns about TikTok’s future in the US, the app remains a highly popular and engaging platform. With its user-friendly interface and a wide range of creative features, individuals and brands have discovered innovative ways to captivate audiences and boost their presence on TikTok continually. This includes leveraging the TikTok video editor to create and edit captivating videos.

According to a recent report from Statista, TikTok is emerging as a strong competitor to the popular streaming service Netflix. US adults spend 56 minutes daily on TikTok, only 6 minutes less than on Netflix. This data indicates that TikTok has captivated the attention of the masses and become an integral part of their daily lives.

Knowing the pulse of a growing trend is imperative in the advertising industry, as well as the engagement rate to further deduce overall intention and resonate with audiences. The growth of TikTok presents a unique opportunity for brands and businesses to capitalize on trends and improve their ROAS. And as more TikTok users spend watch time on their FYP (For You Page), video views for TikTok ads will continue to skyrocket.

Comparing the Different Types of Video View Metrics on TikTok Ads

To make the most of this opportunity, it’s important to understand the nuances of TikTok video views metrics, precisely the difference between View, 2-second, and 6-second views. By mastering these metrics and knowing when to use each, advertisers can optimize their campaigns for maximum impact.

What is a TikTok Ad View? 

The term paid “view” can mean different things on different platforms. On TikTok, any video ad playback is counted as a view, even if it’s just for a fraction of a second. However, as the platform is home to a community of hyper-swiper users, some video ads may be skipped over quickly, resulting in an ad impression instead of an ad view.

What is a TikTok Ad View - TikTok views vs. impressions vs. reach

So, what’s the importance of TikTok ad view metrics? One significant benefit is that they can help you understand the effectiveness of your audience targeting by looking at your TikTok View Rate (VR). This metric shows whether viewers are skipping or ignoring your TikTok ads. To calculate the view rate manually, divide the total number of video ad views (Views) by the total number of ads served (Impressions).

Let’s delve into an example of a TikTok view campaign. Our recent campaign had a View Rate of 92.24% and a Frequency of 1.29. With these metrics, we can infer that the campaign message effectively reaches most target demographics. Furthermore, we can deduce that most viewers are not quick-swipers, meaning they are more likely to consume the video ad content, ultimately improving the chances of driving conversions.


Further Reading

TikTok-Brand-Awareness-Ad-Objective-An-Opportunity-Media-Buyers-Should-Know-About
Why Advertisers Should Take Advantage of TikTok’s Brand Awareness Objective

As various peak retail seasons unfold throughout the year, it’s essential to develop discovery and brand awareness campaigns to stand out in a competitive market. Despite being a relative newcomer to the paid social industry, TikTok has quickly emerged as one of the most powerful tools for building brand recognition.


What is a 2-second view in a TikTok Video ad?

As advertisers compete for consumers’ attention on social media platforms, creating video ads worth the viewers’ time has become increasingly essential. At Strike Social, our team believes the 2-second Video View is a more valuable metric when calculating the TikTok Ads’ Cost Per View (CPV). According to a report by insiderintelligence.com, social media users have an average attention span of just 1.3 seconds when it comes to creative advertising opportunities. This is far shorter than TV consumers’ acceptable 30-second commercial attention span.

What is a 2-second view in a TikTok Video Ad - eMarketer dominant ad duration by platform

Using the 2-second Video View metric, advertisers can better understand how many viewers are engaged with their content beyond the initial impression. This can help them optimize their ad campaigns and reach the appropriate audience. Metrics like 2-second video plays can greatly influence the success of a video ad campaign, especially for those running on TikTok consideration objective, where both engagement and sustained views are essential for keeping audiences connected to the ad.

What is a 6-second view in a TikTok ad?

Being the center of internet culture and entertainment platforms, TikTok has proven its ability to produce viral trends and generate buzz around brands and businesses. TikTok ads deliver the same result as paid marketing efforts. The video-sharing platform treats viewership as equally important as other forms of engagement. The campaign successfully secures their undivided attention when viewers are determined to watch an ad for six seconds or more. This increases the ad’s memorability and drives top-of-mind brand recall.

What is a 6-second view in a TikTok ad - TikTok 6 second focused views

The 6-second views metric is beneficial for brand campaigns to increase awareness and recall. Another metric that can complement the 6-second View in a TikTok ad campaign is the average watch time. It also effectively measures engagement, showing how many viewers are invested in the ad content beyond just scrolling past it.


Further Reading

Strike Social Blog Header - TikTok-conversion-objective
Turning TikTok Views Into Sales and Conversions

Short-form content has transformed the consumer journey, shifting from traditional product research to brand discovery, engagement, and loyalty-building. With TikTok’s highly engaging conversion-focused ad solutions, these evolving purchase behaviors are here to stay, even as more consumers return to physical stores.


How Does TikTok Focused View Objective Compute Cost Per View?

In the third quarter of 2022, TikTok introduced a new video ad objective called Focused View. This new feature allows advertisers to connect with their target audience with a high intention to engage or watch the ad. Previously, video ads on TikTok were measured by Cost per Thousand Views (CPMV). But with the introduction of Tiktok’s Focused View, the platform switched to a Cost per 6-Second video view. This means advertisers only pay when a user watches the ad for at least 6 seconds or engages with the advertisement within the first 6 seconds rather than just seeing it.

So, how does Focused View work exactly?

TikTok’s algorithm is designed to optimize campaigns and serve ads to users who are likely to watch the advertisement beyond 6 seconds. This optimization is based on various factors such as user behavior, interests, and demographics. In addition to emotional engagement through viewership, TikTok’s algorithm also targets interactive engagement through visible ad interaction. This means the platform favors users with higher engagement chances, such as likes, comments, and shares.

By targeting users who are more likely to interact and connect, Focused View delivers higher engagement rates and better ROI for advertisers. In one of TikTok’s advertising partners, the 6-second Focused View objective drove an 11% increase in ad recall, an 18% more cost-efficient 2-second CPV, and a 53% higher average watch time per view, 2.8x higher completion rate.

Contact Us

Improve your campaign results by 10-20% with expertise from a SWAS (Software with a Service) AdTech agency.

Find out how Strike Social can support your in-house team for better results.

Boosting Your TikTok Ad Campaigns with Video Ad View Metrics

TikTok is increasingly emerging as a significant player in the entertainment industry, demonstrated by its remarkable surge in organic and paid video views, causing it to compete with major platforms such as YouTube and Netflix.

The platform’s continuous rollout of new features, such as discovery and search, ticket retailing, and paywalled 20-minute videos, has kept users, creators, and brands engaged and involved. As more users spend time on their FYP, TikTok video views ads are expected to surge. Understanding each Video ad View metric and optimizing campaigns based on pacing can help businesses and brands capitalize on this trend and improve their return on ad spend (ROAS).

Strike Social has worked with TikTok since 2019, building and refining paid campaigns within TikTok’s Business Center. We have extensive experience using TikTok’s native audiences and contextual search targeting to guarantee impressive metrics for our clients’ local campaigns within the DMA and most City levels.

With our expertise and understanding of TikTok’s video views metrics, we can help your business achieve maximum impact and success on the platform. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help your brand succeed on TikTok.

The post Exploring the Metrics: How TikTok Measures Video Views on Ads (2024 Update) appeared first on Strike Social.

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A Guide To DMA Geo-targeting On TikTok: Reaching Location-based Audience https://strikesocial.com/blog/tiktok-dma-geo-targeting-reaching-location-based-audience/ Tue, 20 Sep 2022 17:08:13 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=4997 Strike Overview Jump to Section This post was updated in October 2024 to provide you with the latest information. A Guide To DMA Geo-targeting On TikTok: Reaching Location-based Audience Like other social media giants, TikTok has adopted Nielsen’s DMA, giving advertisers the advantage of targeting specific regions or cities within the U.S. for more localized […]

The post A Guide To DMA Geo-targeting On TikTok: Reaching Location-based Audience appeared first on Strike Social.

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Strike Overview

  • Designated Market Area (DMA®) geo-targeting is a key feature for TikTok advertisers in North America, especially those targeting regions within the U.S., Hawaii, and parts of Alaska.
  • TikTok ranks as the 5th most-used social network globally, following major platforms like Meta and YouTube, with U.S. users making up roughly 10% of the worldwide user base. In 2024, 107.8 million active U.S. users create a significant opportunity for marketers to reach and engage specific audiences.
  • TikTok’s extensive reach combined with precise geo-targeting tools makes it a highly effective platform for advertisers looking to connect with diverse and localized audiences across the U.S.

Jump to Section

This post was updated in October 2024 to provide you with the latest information.

A Guide To DMA Geo-targeting On TikTok: Reaching Location-based Audience

Like other social media giants, TikTok has adopted Nielsen’s DMA, giving advertisers the advantage of targeting specific regions or cities within the U.S. for more localized campaigns.

This guide will walk you through the basics of using TikTok’s DMA geo-targeting and provide a list of over 100 DMAs for your next marketing strategy.

What is DMA Geo-targeting?

Geotargeting is a marketing strategy that allows you to focus your paid content on a selected consumer’s DMA. With this, TikTok can target app users by matching behavior data on current and recent location visits.

You can target specific demographics when running a video ad campaign on TikTok. This is done by choosing an available area from the drop-down menus in the “location” section. TikTok will show your video ad to users in a particular city based on the IP addresses of their mobile devices.


Further Reading

Marketers guide to TikTok ad specs - Strike Social
Strike Social’s Guide to TikTok Ad Creatives, Formats, and Specifications

We’ve outlined everything you need to ensure your TikTok ad creatives are spot-on and perfectly aligned with your audience’s devices. Explore the different ad formats, specifications, and dimensions essential for crafting a flawless TikTok campaign that captivates your viewers.


Why Use TikTok DMA Geo-targeting?

TikTok’s ad targeting has traditionally focused on audience behavior, such as the content users engage with and the creators or brands they interact with or purchase from. With DMA geo-targeting, brands can take targeting a step further, honing in on specific geographic areas to ensure they’re reaching the most relevant audience.

Beyond this, geo-targeting will enable brands to tap into TikTok’s highly engaged organic content, creating more action for the ad.

TikTok DMA location targeting is most effective when: 

  • Your business has one physical store and location-specific offers
  • Each store location has different landing pages

Where To Locate TikTok Location Targeting Options

  1. Create a campaign on TikTok Ads Manager.
  2. Under Targeting, go to Demographics > Location
  3. Type in a location, and then all the options for that location will come up.
  4. You will see County, State, Market (DMA). Note: Some locations have trademarked “DMA” after them, and you can click to target them. 
Adding TikTok DMA geotargeting on Ads Manager - United States DMA options
Adding TikTok DMA geotargeting on Ads Manager - sample for New York targeting

How To Create An Effective Plan When Targeting By Location

A good advertisement targets the right people so that it appeals to their interests and behaviors. However, advertisers can also go wrong by setting their parameters too broad or too narrow.

Setting the parameters too broad runs the promotion to many unnecessary viewers. In other words, serving the ad to people with no interest can quickly drive up ad costs.

Second, if you set your parameters too narrowly, you may miss an opportunity to learn what works, and at the same time, campaigns may not run consistently due to the small size of the audience pool.

List of Available US TikTok DMA Geo-targeting

We’ve compiled a list of DMAs you can use for geo-targeting on TikTok. You can use these DMAs to reach a broader audience in a specific region.

Available TikTok DMA Geo-targeting by US City

NameCity
New York CityNew York, Kings County, New York, United States
Los AngelesLos Angeles, Los Angeles County, California, United States
ChicagoChicago, Cook County, Illinois, United States
PhoenixPhoenix, Maricopa County, Arizona, United States
PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia, Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, United States
San AntonioSan Antonio, Bexar County, Texas, United States
San DiegoSan Diego, San Diego County, California, United States
DallasDallas, Dallas County, Texas, United States
San JoseSan Jose, Santa Clara County, California, United States
JacksonvilleJacksonville, Duval County, Florida, United States
Fort WorthFort Worth, Tarrant County, Texas, United States
CharlotteCharlotte, Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, United States
San FranciscoSan Francisco, City and County of San Francisco, California, United States
SeattleCity and County of San Francisco, California, United States
Oklahoma CityOklahoma City, Oklahoma County, Oklahoma, United States
BostonBoston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts, United States
PortlandPortland, Multnomah County, Oregon, United States
DetroitDetroit, Wayne County, Michigan, United States
BaltimoreBaltimore, Baltimore, Maryland, United States
AlbuquerqueAlbuquerque, Bernalillo County, New Mexico, United States
TucsonTucson, Pima County, Arizona, United States
SacramentoSacramento, Sacramento County, California, United States
Kansas CityKansas City, Jackson County, Missouri, United States
MesaMesa, Maricopa County, Arizona, United States
AtlantaAtlanta, Fulton County, Georgia, United States
OmahaOmaha, Douglas County, Nebraska, United States
Colorado SpringsColorado Springs, El Paso County, Colorado, United States
RaleighRaleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, United States
Long BeachLong Beach, Los Angeles County, California, United States
VirginiaVirginia Beach, Virginia Beach, Virginia, United States
OaklandOakland, Alameda County, California, United States
MinneapolisMinneapolis, Hennepin County, Minnesota, United States
TulsaTulsa, Tulsa County, Oklahoma, United States
BakersfieldBakersfield, Kern County, California, United States
ArlingtonArlington, Tarrant County, Texas, United States
AuroraAurora, Arapahoe County, Colorado, United States
New OrleansNew Orleans, Orleans Parish, Louisiana, United States
ClevelandCleveland, Cuyahoga County, Ohio, United States
AnaheimAnaheim, Orange County, California, United States
LexingtonLexington, Fayette County, Kentucky, United States
IrvineIrvine, Orange County, California, United States
StocktonStockton, San Joaquin County, California, United States
Corpus ChristiCorpus Christi, Nueces County, Texas, United States
CincinnatiCincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, United States
Santa AnaSanta Ana, Orange County, California, United States
GreensboroGreensboro, Guilford County, North Carolina, United States
PittsburghPittsburgh, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, United States
Jersey CityJersey City, Hudson County, New Jersey, United States
St. LouisSt. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, United States
GilbertGilbert, Maricopa County, Arizona, United States
LubbockLubbock, Lubbock County, Texas, United States
ArlingtonArlington, Tarrant County, Texas, United States
SpokaneSpokane, Spokane County, Washington, United States
Baton RougeBaton Rouge, East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, United States
HialeahHialeah, Miami-Dade County, Florida, United States
HuntsvilleHuntsville, Madison County, Alabama, United States
RochesterRochester, Monroe County, New York, United States
FontanaFontana, San Bernardino County, California, United States
Salt Lake CitySalt Lake City, Salt Lake County, Utah, United States
Cape CoralCape Coral, Lee County, Florida, United States
TallahasseeTallahassee, Leon County, Florida, United States
ProvidenceProvidence, Providence County, Rhode Island, United States
KnoxvilleKnoxville, Knox County, Tennessee, United States
AkronAkron, Summit County, Ohio, United States
MurfreesboroMurfreesboro, Rutherford County, Tennessee, United States
Kansas CityKansas City, Jackson County, Missouri, United States
RosevilleRoseville, Placer County, California, United States
Source: TikTok Ads Manager

Available TikTok DMA Geo-targeting by US County

NameCounty
BaltimoreBaltimore, Maryland, United States
Baton RougeEast Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, United States
DallasDallas County, Texas, United States
El PasoEl Paso County, Texas, United States
JacksonJackson County, Missouri, United States
Los AngelesLos Angeles County, California, United States
LubbockLubbock County, Texas, United States
MadisonMadison County, Alabama, United States
MiamiMiami-Dade County, Florida, United States
Oklahoma CityOklahoma County, Oklahoma, United States
PhiladelphiaPhiladelphia County, Pennsylvania, United States
ProvidenceProvidence County, Rhode Island, United States
SacramentoSacramento County, California, United States
San BernardinoSan Bernardino County, California, United States
San DiegoSan Diego County, California, United States
San FranciscoCity and County of San Francisco, California, United States
SpokaneSpokane County, Washington, United States
St. LouisSt. Louis, Missouri, United States
VirginiaVirginia Beach, Virginia, United States
Source: TikTok Ads Manager

Available US TikTok DMA Geo-targeting by Market 

Search among the list of available DMA targeting found inside TikTok Business Manager.


Further Reading

Strike Social Blog Header - TikTok Search Ads - The Game-Changing Ad Strategy Your Business Needs
Why TikTok Search Ads Should Be On Your Radar

TikTok has officially launched search ads, allowing advertisers to capitalize on user search terms to drive conversions. Explore how leveraging search keywords alongside engaging video content can boost your brand’s visibility and amplify user engagement on the platform.


Tips for Creating Effective Geo-targeted Content

To successfully geo-target on TikTok, you’ll want to create content that appeals to the market in your specific target location.

  1. Tailor your content to make it more relatable to the people in a particular city or area because
  2. There are often many different market trends in each US state. 
  3. When crafting a marketing strategy, it is essential to consider your audience’s demographics rather than looking at them state-by-state.
  4. Using relevant hashtags can reach new consumers on TikTok
  5. Laying down DMA regions on top of your existing targeting allows you to prioritize local audiences, focusing on the top market rather than a more general audience.

When to choose State, City, and DMA

  • Target State if you want to cover a larger area
  • Pick City if you wish to target a particular city in a State
  • Choose Market if you want to target everyone in that area. For example, exclude Oklahoma City and Sherman if you wish to target Wichita Falls and Tulsa in Oklahoma on your TikTok ads campaign. You can geo-target each city by choosing the appropriate DMA.

TikTok offers great tool brands can use to deliver more personalized advertising messages, thanks to DMA geotargeting option. Marketers can find more opportunities for audiences across different demographics and geographies by including a more granular location targeting in their media plans. Matching target consumers’ location and the right messaging, campaigns are becoming relevant and exciting, resulting in a more desirable outcome.

You can scale your TikTok campaigns without compromising the efficiency and capabilities of your advertising team. Share your paid social media advertising needs with us, and we’ll guide you through our SWAS (Software with a Service) approach to help you achieve your goals.

The post A Guide To DMA Geo-targeting On TikTok: Reaching Location-based Audience appeared first on Strike Social.

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TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads: What Marketers Should know https://strikesocial.com/blog/tiktok-spark-ads-vs-non-spark-ads/ Tue, 31 May 2022 17:53:02 +0000 https://strikesocial.com/?p=4834 Strike Overview Jump to Section Get exclusive content on paid social media. Join our mailing list for the latest updates. This post was updated in August 2024 to provide you with the latest information. TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads: What Marketers Should know In a snap of a finger, advertisers have turned their curiosity […]

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Strike Overview

  • Choosing between TikTok Spark ads and Non-Spark ads can be challenging since each format offers unique advantages, whether you’re using your own creative or utilizing influencer-generated content.
  • With U.S. users spending an average of 58 minutes daily on TikTok, advertisers have ample opportunity to capture attention, regardless of the ad format.
  • Understand the differences and benefits of each format to decide which will drive better results for your campaigns: TikTok Spark ads or Non-Spark ads.

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This post was updated in August 2024 to provide you with the latest information.

TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads: What Marketers Should know

In a snap of a finger, advertisers have turned their curiosity into a necessity when talking about TikTok ads. Research shows that more brands are opting to move their ad money as TikTok advertising revenue continues to grow 18% year-on-year, amounting to $23.1 billion, despite ongoing discussions about a potential TikTok ban.

Similarly, Strike Social saw a massive boost in TikTok ad spending. However, with TikTok’s rapid growth, marketers need to determine and understand the usability of the available ad formats, particularly the similarities and differences between TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads.

TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads: Which is Best?

As much as you want to know the answer, it should begin with understanding the definition of these TikTok ad formats, learning the availability of objectives per ad unit, and knowing ad specs limitations.

What is a TikTok Spark Ad?

Marketers use this ad format to scale UGC (User-Generated Content) and own organic content. TikTok Spark Ads help drive more eyes and engagement during brand discovery. For a quick reference, this is similar to boosting posts on Facebook and Instagram, but it also has the ability to use influencer feed posts.

On the other hand, TikTok Non-Spark ads are delivered in a standard format to the ‘For You’ page. Video ad placement is seamless, creating a more native content approach with a call-to-action for TikTok app users. 

Campaign Setup Differences of Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads

Each TikTok ad campaign is unique. Every detail in media buying directly affects ad outcomes. For example, when advertising your TikTok shop, using TikTok Shop ads can effectively drive sales. Additionally, promoting with TikTok Spark ads can enhance brand authenticity and product promotion, further supporting your overall campaign strategy.

Before switching to your TikTok Ad Manager account, you can run through the table below for a quick comparison when setting up TikTok Spark ads and non-Spark ads.

Ad Campaign Metrics Comparison

TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads - Ad Type Comparison by campaign metrics

Further Reading

Marketers guide to TikTok ad specs - Strike Social
Keep Your Ads Visible with The TikTok Ad Specs Guide

Explore the different TikTok ad formats, along with their creative requirements and dimensions, to effectively plan your next advertising campaign.


Well-curated media plans are the primary tool for successful TikTok advertisements. By creating a more well-defined measure of success for TikTok ads, brands can efficiently take the next step in the sales funnel. 

Spark Ads campaign metrics can measure a variety of TikTok ad interactions. TikTok views, profile visit KPIs, follower growth from paid ads, and music link engagement are some indicators that help marketers understand how their target audiences respond to their ads.

Post Type and User Ad Engagement Comparison

In the battle of paid social, platforms that can deliver more native and interactive ad units win consumers. TikTok app users can easily define an ad from native content, but TikTok Spark Ads can further leverage highly engaging organic posts increasing reach and brand discovery without changing the advertising experience.

For digital advertising, users are more receptive to brand messaging when using more instinctive content. Based on TikTok for Business findings, 84% have considered purchasing a product or service after seeing branded TikTok video content. 

TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads - Ad Type Comparison by posting type, creative

Further Reading

Elevate-Organic-Growth-with-TikTok-Spark-Ad-Strike-Social-
Elevate Your Brand’s Organic Growth with TikTok Spark Ads

Spark Ads allows you to amplify existing video posts or organic content from other creators. You can effectively increase followers, drive genuine engagement, and boost sales by leveraging authentic advertising.


Similar to the importance of understanding campaign metrics, focusing on ad details leads to high user ad engagement beyond simply increasing TikTok views. TikTok Ad Manager adds a few ad structures for different objectives: optimize to more landing pages, app installation, page visits, and boost followings. One recognizable detail is the Add icon, placed under the brand’s profile photo—allowing users to follow the account without leaving the ad.

While scrolling through your TikTok app, you might spot the follow button here:

Follow button on TikTok ad

Tips for using TikTok Spark Ads

Unlike Spark Ads, video creatives for Non-Spark ad units are uploaded through the TikTok Business Center. TikTok app users will see the video first as soon as the ad is displayed. Because of that, it will take some time for the TikTok Business Manager to learn about potentially interested consumers.

The existing post presents a different scenario. These TikTok video clips would have gathered audience data through organic engagement or appeared on the For You page, giving them a head start.


Further Reading

Strike Social Blog Header - TikTok Analytics Ads Targeting
Marketers’ Guide to Understanding TikTok Ads Targeting

Spark Ads allows you to amplify existing video posts or organic content from other creators. You can effectively increase followers, drive genuine engagement, and boost sales by leveraging authentic advertising.


Take a look at this guide to know when TikTok advertisers should choose their organic posts versus creators’ content when setting up TikTok Spark Ads:

When choosing a brand’s organic posts as Spark ads:

  • Grow social presence and build the following
  • Build the bottom-funnel audience for retargeting
  • Ideal to compliment with an Always-On Campaign 

When using the creator’s organic posts as Spark ads:

  • Boost your campaign with the help of the creators’ content influence
  • To develop a more authentic and native feel to your ad. 

Staying Above the TikTok Advertising Curve

TikTok has not only captured the attention of most marketers but also convinced them to dedicate a higher share of the budget to their advertising platform. The short-form video app is famous for its creative and authentic content, which provides the same experience as viewing ads. 

Get in touch

Partner with a SWAS (Software with a Service) AdTech agency to achieve a 10-20% improvement in your campaign outcomes.

Learn how Strike Social can be an extension of your in-house team.

TikTok Sparks Ads is a new and unique advertising solution for marketers to drive brand awareness and engagement. Its native and relevant video content directly speaks to the community.

Start boosting and discover the advertising efficiency and adaptability of TikTok Spark Ads. 

Interested to know more about Spark Ads and other TikTok advertising units? Contact us here.

The post TikTok Spark Ads vs. Non-Spark Ads: What Marketers Should know appeared first on Strike Social.

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