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Navigating the Administrative Side of TikTok Selling: A Guide for Businesses

  • Writer: YouMart
    YouMart
  • Jan 17
  • 2 min read

Updated: Jan 21

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TikTok has emerged as a powerful platform for businesses to connect with audiences and drive sales. However, successfully selling on TikTok goes beyond captivating content and engaging live streams. Understanding the administrative side of the platform is crucial for smooth operations and long-term success.



Choosing the Right Account: Personal vs. Business

The first crucial decision is whether to use a personal or business account for your selling endeavors.


Personal Accounts:

These are easier to set up and offer a more relaxed environment, making them ideal for organic growth. However, they have limitations, such as limited access to analytics and potential for account shadowbanning due to mixed content.


Business Accounts:

While requiring more setup effort, business accounts offer significant advantages. These include access to valuable analytics, better ad targeting options, improved brand credibility, and increased control over content.


You can read more here on TikTok's FAQ.



Understanding TikTok's Commission Structure

TikTok itself generally doesn't take a direct commission on sales generated through organic content or live streams. However, it's essential to consider:


TikTok Shop:

If you utilize TikTok Shop for selling products, they may have specific commission fees.


Third-Party Platforms:

If you direct traffic to an external website or platform for purchase, those platforms will likely have their own commission structures.


You can read more here on TikTok's FAQ


Here's a breakdown of how TikTok's platform commission fee is calculated. Note that the commission rate is applied to the price after any seller discounts are applied.
Here's a breakdown of how TikTok's platform commission fee is calculated. Note that the commission rate is applied to the price after any seller discounts are applied.

Streamlining Order Fulfillment

The logistics of order fulfillment will vary depending on your sales approach:


Direct Sales via TikTok Shop:

If you sell directly through TikTok Shop, order fulfillment generally follows their platform's processes.


External Sales:

If you direct customers to an external website, you'll need to manage the entire order fulfillment process in-house. This includes order processing, inventory management, shipping, and customer service.



Navigating TikTok's Terms of Use

TikTok discourages direct selling outside of the platform.


Terms of Use:

Be mindful of TikTok's Terms of Use, which may restrict the extent to which you can direct traffic away from the platform.


Avoid Spamming:

Avoid directly asking viewers to visit external links excessively, as this can lead to account penalties.


Read more here on TikTok's FAQ


Two images of a TikTok profile page. Image A shows a typical profile with the user's username, follower count, and a call to action to 'Click the link on my bio.' Image B shows the same profile with a live stream banner and a large banner that says 'VISIT THIS WEBSITE FOR DISCOUNT!' with a link to an external website.
TikTok generally discourages direct selling outside the platform. Be mindful of their Terms of Use to avoid potential account penalties. Focus on building a strong community within TikTok and provide value to your audience.

Focus on Building a Strong Community

Prioritize building a strong community within the TikTok ecosystem.


Engage Authentically:

Focus on creating valuable content, interacting with viewers, and fostering genuine connections.


By carefully considering these administrative aspects, businesses can navigate the complexities of selling on TikTok effectively.



Contact YouMart today to unlock the full potential of TikTok selling.




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