Have you ever thought about TikTok as a search engine? If you answered no, now is the time to start changing the way you view the popular social media platform; it’s more than just clips of kids dancing along to trendy music. Believe it or not, TikTok can be used as a legitimate search engine due to its powerful yet intriguing algorithm. The app’s algorithm is made to curate personalized content for each user based on their interests and behavior on the platform, meaning it recommends relevant content to users when they search for it on TikTok relative to their previous search queries.
You’re probably wondering, “What does TikTok’s algorithm have to do with online shopping?” I’m here to tell you about the platform’s impressive ability to dictate what products users come across and ultimately purchase online. TikTok’s algorithm notes when users interact with videos about a particular brand or product and suggests similar content. TikTok can keep track of a user’s interests, which is such valuable information to not only the app, but to the user as well. The app can provide users with the appropriate and relevant information they need to make an informed purchase!
Still not fully grasping TikTok’s impact on online shopping? No worries, let’s walk through an example. Pretend a user engages with a video about a particular makeup brand; the algorithm will then suggest more of that makeup brand’s content to them, including images and videos featuring product recommendations, tutorials and reviews. As a result, the user will become more invested in that makeup brand and will then ultimately be convinced to purchase the brand’s products online.
In addition, TikTok makes the online shopping experience incredibly efficient. The app now offers a function known as “TikTok Shopping,” which allows users to purchase products directly from the app. Users don’t even have to leave the app to buy the products they want! The algorithm also recommends further shopping-related materials to users who interact with TikTok Shopping content, such as unboxings and promotional videos.
The TikTok Shopping feature gives brands a formidable tool to help advertise their goods and connect with potential customers on the app. Brands may attract a larger audience and increase sales through the app by showcasing their items in TikTok videos on the Discover page. This feature is a practical method for when existing customers shop, and when brands want to reach potential customers. TikTok is highly anticipated to develop a more integral role in e-commerce and online purchasing in the upcoming years.
Acknowledging the power TikTok has on the future of online shopping is crucial. Due to TikTok’s enormous user base and the abundance of content it offers, its search functionality has gained lots of traction. TikTok is a dynamic learning and exploration tool for users. Moving forward, users should be mindful of the possible effects of the information they consume on the platform because its algorithm has the power to influence the way people think, act and feel. Brands should seriously consider TikTok’s impact on the future of online shopping. The app has already had a considerable impact on mainstream culture, and it is likely that this influence will only increase in the years to come.
Ready to take your brand’s influence to the next level? Contact us to get started on TikTok!