To any brand or content creator, there’s a lot that live streaming offers. Besides gaining widespread attention from the target audience, it also opens a host of monetization options. Between real-time engagement, interviewing guests, and direct shout-outs, the possibilities are virtually endless. Bring TikTok LIVE into the mix, and you’ll have the perfect formula for building a connection with your audience through engaging live streams.

If you want to learn all about TikTok live streams, this post explores how to go live on TikTok, what makes up an interesting TikTok live stream, and answers some of the commonly asked questions about TikTok LIVE.

Ready to dive in?

What is TikTok LIVE?

TikTok LIVE is a platform feature that allows users and creators to interact with their followers/audiences through live streams. TikTok’s claim to fame remains its short-form videos powered by filters, effects, emojis, and awesome camera control. The same has been extended to TikTok LIVE users with the added advantage of unlimited recording time.

So, if you have a solid fanbase or intend to build one on TikTok, LIVE offers you a terrific way to do that. Build a deeper connection with your followers and even attract new ones by expanding your reach with TikTok live streams.

Who can use TikTok LIVE?

The first thing to keep in mind before you create a TikTok LIVE strategy is that the feature isn’t available for all. The platform requires you to be at least 16 years old to launch LIVEs. And if you want to send and receive gifts during a LIVE, you need to be 18 years old or older.

More so, you’ll need to have at least 1,000 followers to unlock the capability to go LIVE.

How to go live on TikTok?

Going Live on TikTok is no sweat. All you need to do is:

1. Open the app and tap the “Create” (+) icon at the bottom center of the screen.
2. Under the record button, click “LIVE” to get started with TikTok LIVE.
3. Now, upload an exciting thumbnail image and give your live stream a title. This is particularly important to create an impact on the viewers and get clicks, apart from boosting your live stream on search.
4. Lastly, tap the “Go LIVE” button to begin your broadcast. You can now click the three dots to adjust the live broadcast’s settings. TikTok allows you to flip the camera, turn comments on or off, add effects or filters, add up to 20 moderators, share your broadcast and do a lot more.

That’s how easy it is to create a TikTok live stream. You can always multiply the benefits live broadcasts offer by simulcasting on different platforms using a reliable multi-streaming studio such as Wave.video — no more FOMO.

TikTok LIVE Best Practices

One of the worst things to do as a creator is not making the most of a platform you’re going live on. So to avoid the mistake, here are some best practices you can try before you hit that “Go LIVE” button on TikTok!

Chalk it out

Don’t rely on beginner’s luck here, and prepare a precise plan chalking out all the details of your TikTok LIVE strategy, starting from the primary goal. For example, do you want to drive traffic to your website or build a community? What is it that you aim to achieve by going live on TikTok? Figure that out, and then create a plan to achieve it.

Timing is everything

As with most social media platforms, being there for your audience at the right time is pure gold. Who makes your target audience? Is it mompreneurs or coaches? Professionals working on their side-hustles or pro-gamers? Once your niche is identified, go live when your audience is the most active on TikTok. It will help you further the engagement and build up enthusiasm for future live streams.

Pro Tip: Head to “Follower activity” in TikTok analytics to identify when your audience is usually online. Here’s how to do that:

1. Go to your profile on TikTok.
2. Click on the three horizontal lines in the upper right-hand corner.
3. Pick the “Creator tools” option from the menu.
4. Tap on the “Analytics” option to gain access to your analytics and stats.
5. Choose the “Followers” section and scroll down to the “Follower activity” part.

Don’t go too long or too short

As much as you’d like to, going on for hours at a stretch can be exhausting. You may not add much value, and your audience may not return. So, be careful about your live stream’s length. While going too short isn’t advisable (it beats the purpose of a live broadcast), avoid going too long. Instead, head for the midway and be there for around 30 minutes.

Promote your TikTok LIVE

There’s a universal truth behind the popularity of live streams: Promoting them increases visibility and engagement. That’s why it’s a must to have a promotional tactic handy for your TikTok LIVE broadcasts. You can also post a TikTok video right before your LIVE stream. This is a fantastic way to direct viewers to your LIVE as your latest video will show a special icon that’ll take them to your LIVE broadcast.

Focus on the setup

Like any other video format, live streams demand a great setup too. From ensuring that the lighting is good from all the camera angles to having the right sound without background noise is critical to your TikTok LIVE’s success. You may also want a steady, high-speed internet connection for a smooth live broadcast without buffers and stutters.

Keep it interactive

Remember, live videos are all about interaction. Respond to comments, answer viewers’ queries, host giveaways, ask questions and do all it takes to keep the engagement alive. And if all of it gets too difficult to handle alone, consider hiring a moderator to keep the ball rolling.

TikTok presenters can spotlight viewers’ questions during a live stream. Image source: TikTok

End it with a CTA

Each live broadcast has its goals, type, and audience. No live stream viewer fancies a cliffhanger ending. So, close every TikTok live stream with an attractive call-to-action (CTA). For example, you can ask them to visit your website to catch an upcoming announcement or ask for more shares to keep the motivation high to produce future live broadcasts.

FAQs on TikTok LIVE

What does a moderator do on TikTok LIVE?

Moderators help manage your live comments and mute or block accounts if needed. Having a moderator or a team of moderators is a good step towards having a clean, healthy live stream chat. TikTok allows creators to add up to 20 moderators to their live streams.

How many followers do I need to go live on TikTok?

If you’re wondering how many followers on TikTok to go live, then the platform requires at least 1,000 followers. Without these many followers, you won’t even find the option to go live.

How to watch a TikTok LIVE replay?

To access your LIVE video recordings, go to Settings and privacy, and choose “LIVE Replay.” You’ll be able to see your LIVE replays here and download or delete them if required.

Why can’t I go live on TikTok?

To go live on TikTok, you need to be at least 16 years and have at least 1,000 followers. If you meet these criteria and still can’t go live on TikTok, it’s best to reach out to their support team at the earliest.

Conclusion

TikTok LIVEs offer an excellent way to attract new viewers, engage your audience and build a loyal community.

Use the tips mentioned in this post to build a strong foundation for TikTok LIVE streams that set you apart in your chosen niche.

And, if you want to learn about top live streaming business ideas, watch this superb broadcast here: