TikTok: What it is and how to use it to sell online

TikTok has revolutionized the way the world consumes online content, and it’s not just for teenagers looking for entertainment… It’s for everyone.

If you are an entrepreneur or retailer who wants to take your business online, this platform can be a powerful tool to promote your store and increase your sales.

In this article, we will explain what TikTok is and how you can use it to boost your online sales in a creative and engaging way.

What is TikTok?

TikTok is a social network that allows users to create and share short videos, usually 15 to 60 seconds long.

The platform has become a global phenomenon with over a billion active users worldwide. Although it started out as popular with Gen Z, TikTok has gained traction across all ages and demographics. And, of course, with businesses and brands too.

How does TikTok Shop work?

TikTok Shop is the e-commerce platform integrated into TikTok that allows brands, creators, and entrepreneurs to sell products directly in the app.

This tool transforms videos, live streams, and profiles into interactive stores. Users can purchase with a single click while browsing content, which is known as social commerce.

Key features of TikTok Shop

• Videos and live streams: Products are tagged in videos or promoted in live streams, enabling instant purchases.
• Shop tab: A dedicated section in the app where users can browse products from different sellers.
• Affiliate system: Creators can recommend products and earn commissions on sales.
• Integrations: Connect your online store with platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, or Neolo Shop to synchronize catalogs.
• Sponsored ads: Amplify the reach of your products with advertising campaigns on TikTok.

For example, the Stanley mug went viral on TikTok thanks to videos showing its design and functionality, generating massive sales.

Why use TikTok if I have an e-commerce business?

TikTok combines entertainment with e-commerce, creating an immersive shopping experience.

According to Statista, global e-commerce will grow by 19.5% in 2025, and platforms like TikTok are leading this trend.

If you have an online store or want to sell from home, TikTok is an opportunity to reach global customers without a large investment.

1. Global Reach: TikTok gives you access to a diverse global audience, which means you can reach potential customers all over the world.
2. Viral Content: Viral videos on TikTok can reach millions of views in a short amount of time, giving you the opportunity to significantly increase your brand’s visibility.
3. Brand Humanization: TikTok allows entrepreneurs to show the personality behind their brands. You can be authentic and connect with your customers in a way that traditional marketing strategies don’t allow.
4. Trends and Challenges: You can join popular trends and challenges related to your niche, which will help you keep your content relevant and engaging.

Boost your sales and create your own online store in just 10 minutes.

No sales commissions!

How to use TikTok to sell online

1. Create Valuable Content: Instead of focusing on selling directly, create content that is informative, entertaining, or inspiring. For example, if you sell beauty products, you can show makeup tutorials using your products.
2. Use Relevant Hashtags: Research and use popular hashtags related to your industry to increase the visibility of your videos.
3. Collaborate with Influencers: Work with influencers who have followers in your niche. This can increase your brand’s credibility and reach a wider audience.
4. Exclusive Offers and Discounts: Post special offers and discount codes for your TikTok followers. This can encourage conversion.
5. Interaction and Response: Respond to comments and direct messages from your followers. Personalized interaction builds strong relationships.
6. TikTok Ads: Consider using paid ads on TikTok to reach a more targeted audience.
7. Data Analysis: Use TikTok’s analytics tools to evaluate the performance of your videos and adjust your strategy accordingly.
8. Consistency: Post regularly to keep your followers interested and engaged with your brand.

Profitable niches to sell on TikTok in 2025

Choosing the right niche is key to standing out on TikTok. Here are some ideas based on current trends:

• Sustainable products: Reusable bags, bamboo straws, or eco-friendly clothing. Showcase eco-friendly certifications in your videos to attract conscious consumers.
• Imported beauty: Niche face masks and creams. Create short videos showing how they are used.
• Pet products: Interactive toys or premium accessories. Share emotional content with animals to connect with your audience.
• Educational kits: Puzzles or science kits for children. Highlight the educational benefits in the descriptions.

Real example: A handmade candle shop on Neolo Shop used TikTok videos showing the manufacturing process, achieving a 30% increase in sales after a video with the hashtag #HandmadeWithLove went viral.

Common mistakes when selling on TikTok and how to avoid them

Many entrepreneurs make mistakes when they start out. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Not understanding your audience: Research the interests of your target audience (Gen Z, millennials, etc.) before creating content. Use TikTok’s Creative Center to analyze trends.
• Ignoring TikTok’s policies: Avoid selling prohibited products, such as counterfeits. Review the community guidelines to keep your store active.
• Uploading low-quality content: Use high-resolution images and videos. A pixelated video can scare buyers away.
• Not optimizing SEO on TikTok: Include keywords such as sell online or online store in your video descriptions and profile.

Little-known tip: Use captions in your videos to make them accessible to people with hearing impairments. This not only improves inclusivity, but also increases viewing time, which benefits the algorithm.

Summary

TikTok is a powerful marketing platform for entrepreneurs and online merchants.

Take advantage of its ability to authentically connect with your audience and promote your products in a creative and effective way.

Put your shyness aside, start creating your videos, and get ready to see your online sales grow!

If someone asks you for a recommendation to create a free online store, tell them about Neolo Shop, which doesn’t charge commissions and gives you 30 days to try it out. It’s a safe and accessible way to get started.

Last update: August 5, 2025