How To Promote Your Print On Demand Business On TikTok

Introduction.

With TikTok becoming one of the most popular social media platforms, it’s no surprise that businesses are flocking to it, especially small business owners in niches like print-on-demand (POD).

If you’re trying to stand out with your unique designs and products, TikTok could be one of the best ways to get attention without a huge marketing budget.

But how do you turn TikTok’s massive reach into a promotional tool for your print-on-demand business?

Let’s break down the process, covering everything from content ideas to marketing strategies, and explore how you can harness TikTok to make your POD business a hit.

Why TikTok for Print-on-Demand?

TikTok has exploded with users of all ages, but most of its audience is between 16-34 years old—a prime demographic for trendy, customizable, and unique products that POD businesses offer.

According to recent stats, TikTok has over 1 billion monthly active users and a majority spend at least 52 minutes on the app daily.

With these kinds of numbers, your target audience is likely just a few swipes away, waiting to discover your designs.

Another advantage of TikTok is its algorithm. It doesn’t rely solely on your follower count to get your content in front of people.

The “For You” page on TikTok often shows users content that aligns with their interests, making it an ideal place for new businesses to gain traction.

This algorithm, coupled with TikTok’s interactive nature, gives POD business owners a chance to showcase creativity, develop a brand voice, and directly connect with potential customers.

How Do I Promote My Print On Demand Business On TikTok?

1. Create Engaging Content.

Show Behind the Scenes: Let people see your creative process. Whether you’re designing new artwork, packing orders, or testing different shirt prints, this content gives a personal touch and builds trust.
Design Tutorials: If your designs include specific artistic skills, like typography or illustration, short tutorials or time-lapses can be a hit.
Customer Stories and Reviews: Ask your happy customers to share their experiences with your product, or if they post about it, reshare their content on your page. It’s social proof that can go a long way.

2. Use Trending Hashtags and Sounds.

TikTok relies heavily on trends, so using trending hashtags and sounds relevant to your niche can help your video reach more people.

For example, try combining general hashtags like #PrintOnDemand and #ShopSmall with niche-specific or trending tags (#Streetwear, #CustomTee) for maximum reach.

3. Leverage TikTok Ads (If Budget Allows).

In-Feed Ads: These appear in users’ For You feeds and resemble regular TikToks. They’re short and can link directly to your shop or website.
TopView Ads: These are usually more expensive but take up the full screen when users first open TikTok. Consider this if you’re running a major promotion.
Branded Hashtag Challenges: If you’re feeling adventurous (and have a higher budget), branded hashtag challenges can encourage user engagement and create user-generated content.

4. Go Live to Connect with Your Audience.

TikTok Live is a powerful way to interact with your followers directly. You could use this time to talk about your business, answer questions, showcase new designs, or even run limited-time offers or giveaways.

Going live regularly helps keep your brand fresh in people’s minds and shows that you’re open and accessible.

5. Influencer Marketing.

Partnering with TikTok influencers, especially micro-influencers, can help you reach a more targeted audience.

These partnerships can be as simple as sending free products to influencers who then post about them, or more structured campaigns where you negotiate terms directly. Make sure to choose influencers whose style aligns with your brand.

6. Optimize Your Profile and Link Out.

Don’t forget to optimize your profile to include relevant keywords, and if available, use the website link to direct followers to your storefront. Having a memorable profile name and bio helps people remember your brand.

Pros and Cons of Promoting on TikTok

Pros

Wider Audience Reach: With TikTok’s For You page, you don’t need a large follower count to go viral.
High Engagement: TikTok users are more likely to interact with content than on other platforms.
Creative Freedom: TikTok allows for a wide range of content types, from behind-the-scenes to comedy and tutorials.

Cons

Short Shelf Life of Content: TikTok videos typically have a short period of maximum visibility.
Requires Frequent Posting: Success on TikTok often depends on regular, high-quality content.
Ad Costs Can Be High: Running ads, especially ones like TopView, can be expensive.

FAQs

Q: How often should I post on TikTok for my POD business?

A: Aim to post at least three times a week to maintain visibility. Consistency matters more than quantity, so prioritize quality and engaging content over sheer volume.

Q: Can I post the same videos on TikTok and Instagram?

A: Yes, but adapt them to fit each platform’s style and audience. TikTok trends may not always work on Instagram, and vice versa.

Q: How do I find the right influencers for my POD business?

A: Look for influencers who engage in your niche or target a similar audience. Micro-influencers with loyal followings can be more cost-effective and authentic than larger influencers.

Q: How much should I spend on TikTok ads?

A: It depends on your budget, but you can start small with in-feed ads. Try testing different ads to find what performs best, then increase your budget accordingly.