My TikTok Journey: A Newcomer’s Perspective
I’ve never been one for social media. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) never appealed to me. They felt like breeding grounds for comparison and endless scrolling, which only fuels self-esteem issues. But despite my hesitations, I couldn’t ignore the immense power of social media, especially TikTok.
I kept hearing about TikTok from friends and colleagues who seemed to be constantly glued to their screens, laughing at some funny video they saw on the app. After sulking that my coworkers were more interested in TikTok than engaging in office gossip, I thought, “Let’s see what’s on this app that’s stealing so much of their time.”
For those unfamiliar, TikTok is a social media platform where users create and share short, entertaining videos. It thrives on its algorithm, which curates a personalized feed based on your interactions, making it easy to get lost in an endless scroll (TechTarget, 2025). From lip-syncing and viral dance challenges to educational tips and clever life hacks, TikTok has something for everyone. Its unique blend of creativity, humour, and occasional randomness makes it quite addictive.
With over a billion active users, TikTok influences trends, music, and social movements. It’s a place where anyone can become a creator, regardless of experience, thanks to its simple interface and powerful editing tools.
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| TikTok homepage |
When I first downloaded TikTok, I wasn’t expecting much. I figured I’d delete it after five minutes. But unsurprisingly, I became a convert too. While I didn’t scroll for hours every day, I found myself intrigued and distracted from my routines. It’s wild how easy it is to lose track of time—one minute, I’m watching a funny cat video, and then an hour has passed by.
TikTok’s ability to grab attention is no joke, and I completely understand why people love it. Whether it’s a funny dance or a clever recipe, the creativity on display makes it easy to see why the platform is so addictive. There’s artistry behind the content, and I began to appreciate the skill involved in creating videos that keep viewers engaged.
Unlike other platforms where there’s pressure to maintain a curated feed, TikTok thrives on raw, spontaneous creativity. You don’t need a professional photographer or a polished aesthetic—it’s all about being real and having fun. This is what makes TikTok unique. You can film something random in your living room, and it could go viral. It’s a refreshing break from Instagram’s perfection-driven culture.
For businesses, TikTok is a game-changer. It allows brands to show a more personal and fun side, with the potential for viral content being massive. Take Chipotle, for example. They launched the #GuacDance challenge, where people showcased their best dance moves for free guacamole. The campaign went viral and boosted brand visibility, thanks to TikTok’s creative energy. The #GuacDance challenge generated millions of views and connected with younger users in an authentic way.
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| Chipotle’s #GuacDance challenge on TikTok |
Another example is The Washington Post. By posting funny, relatable content alongside current events, they’ve successfully connected with a younger audience. Their videos mix humour with news, making them shareable while still providing value.
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For businesses looking to leverage TikTok, the best strategy is to embrace the platform’s creative and informal vibe. Instead of focusing on perfect product shots, showcase your brand’s personality in fun ways. Participate in trending challenges, give followers a behind-the-scenes look, or create something unique around your product.
Influencer partnerships also work well. TikTok influencers have authentic connections with their followers, and featuring your product in a simple, real video can boost credibility and reach.
Wrapping It Up: Why TikTok Works
Williams, R. (2019) Chipotle smashes TikTok Records with #GuacDance Challenge, Marketing Dive. Available at: https://www.marketingdive.com/news/chipotle-smashes-tiktok-records-with-guacdance-challenge/560102/
Influencer partnerships also work well. TikTok influencers have authentic connections with their followers, and featuring your product in a simple, real video can boost credibility and reach.
While I’m still not a huge fan of social media in my personal life, I understand why platforms like TikTok are so powerful for businesses. TikTok is a creative marketing tool that allows brands to engage with customers in fun and quirky ways. I’m not in a rush to post my own TikToks anytime soon, but I can see how businesses—especially those willing to experiment—can thrive on the app.
References
LaFleur, G. (2023) What is TikTok?: Definition from TechTarget, WhatIs. Available at: https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/TikTok
Make your day. TikTok. Available at: https://www.tiktok.com/@washingtonpost?lang=en
Williams, R. (2019) Chipotle smashes TikTok Records with #GuacDance Challenge, Marketing Dive. Available at: https://www.marketingdive.com/news/chipotle-smashes-tiktok-records-with-guacdance-challenge/560102/
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