How to Make Money on TikTok Without Followers for Free

TikTok is one of the most popular social media platforms today, but many people think they need a large following to make money on the app. While having a big follower count can help, it’s not a strict requirement. You can still monetize your TikTok content without a huge following by using several strategies and leveraging various features. In this article, we’ll explore how to make money on TikTok without followers and provide practical tips to get started.

1. Leverage TikTok’s Creator Fund

The TikTok Creator Fund is a program that pays creators based on their video performance. Even if you don’t have a large following, you can still join the Creator Fund as long as you meet the eligibility criteria. To join, you need:

• At least 18 years old
• A minimum of 10,000 followers
• At least 100,000 video views in the past 30 days

Although the requirement of 10,000 followers might seem daunting, there are other ways to monetize your content without this specific milestone. Focus on producing high-quality, engaging videos that can attract views and potentially help you reach the follower count needed for the Creator Fund.

2. Utilize Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing allows you to earn commissions by promoting products or services. Here’s how you can get started with affiliate marketing on TikTok:

• Choose a Niche: Identify a niche that aligns with your interests and expertise. This will help you create authentic and engaging content around the products or services you promote.
• Join Affiliate Programs: Sign up for affiliate programs related to your niche. Many companies and platforms offer affiliate marketing opportunities, such as Amazon Associates, ShareASale, and CJ Affiliate.
• Create Content: Incorporate the affiliate products into your videos in a natural and engaging way. For example, you can create tutorials, reviews, or unboxing videos showcasing the products.
• Include Links: Use TikTok’s bio link feature to include your affiliate links. Make sure to direct viewers to the link in your bio where they can purchase the products.

3. Sell Digital Products

Selling digital products is another effective way to make money on TikTok. Digital products have low overhead costs and can be sold repeatedly. Here’s how to get started:

• Identify Your Product: Determine what digital products you can create based on your skills and interests. Common options include e-books, online courses, printables, or digital art.
• Create Your Product: Develop high-quality digital products that provide value to your audience. Ensure that your product addresses a specific need or problem.
• Promote Your Product: Use your TikTok videos to showcase and promote your digital products. You can create teaser content, behind-the-scenes looks, or offer special discounts to your followers.
• Set Up a Sales Platform: Use platforms like Gumroad, Etsy, or Teachable to sell your digital products. Include the link to your sales page in your TikTok bio.

4. Offer Services

If you have a specific skill or expertise, you can offer services to your audience. Here’s how to monetize your skills on TikTok:

• Identify Your Skills: Consider what services you can offer based on your skills and experience. This could include consulting, coaching, graphic design, or writing services.
• Create a Service Package: Develop a clear and appealing service package. Outline what you offer, the benefits, and the pricing.
• Promote Your Services: Use TikTok to showcase your skills and highlight the benefits of your services. Share testimonials, case studies, or success stories to build credibility.
• Use a Booking System: Set up a booking system or use a platform like Calendly to manage appointments and payments.

5. Participate in Brand Partnerships

Brand partnerships can be a lucrative way to earn money on TikTok, even if you don’t have a large following. Here’s how to get started:

• Build Your Brand: Develop a unique and engaging personal brand. Focus on creating content that resonates with your target audience.
• Reach Out to Brands: Contact brands or companies that align with your niche and offer to collaborate. Highlight how your content and audience can benefit them.
• Join Influencer Platforms: Sign up for influencer marketing platforms like AspireIQ, Tribe, or Influencer.co. These platforms connect brands with creators, including those with smaller followings.

6. Create a Merch Line

Selling merchandise is another way to make money on TikTok. Even with a small following, you can create and sell branded merchandise. Here’s how:

• Design Your Merchandise: Create unique and appealing designs that reflect your brand and resonate with your audience. Common merchandise items include t-shirts, hoodies, and mugs.
• Use Print-on-Demand Services: Utilize print-on-demand services like Teespring or Printful to handle the production and fulfillment of your merchandise.
• Promote Your Merch: Share your merchandise in your TikTok videos and direct viewers to your online store.

7. Offer Paid Shoutouts

Paid shoutouts are a way to monetize your TikTok account by promoting other creators or brands. Here’s how to get started:

• Set Your Rates: Determine how much you’ll charge for a shoutout. Consider factors like the length of the shoutout and the number of people you’ll reach.
• Promote Your Shoutout Services: Create content announcing that you’re offering paid shoutouts and provide instructions on how interested parties can contact you.

8. Engage in Crowdfunding

Crowdfunding is another method to earn money through TikTok. Platforms like Patreon or Ko-fi allow creators to receive support from their fans. Here’s how:

• Create a Crowdfunding Page: Set up a page on a crowdfunding platform and outline the benefits and rewards for supporters.
• Promote Your Page: Use your TikTok videos to encourage your audience to support you on your crowdfunding page.

9. Host Virtual Events

Hosting virtual events is an excellent way to generate income. You can organize webinars, workshops, or live Q&A sessions. Here’s how:

• Plan Your Event: Decide on the type of event you want to host and create a detailed plan. Consider topics that will interest your audience.
• Promote Your Event: Use TikTok to promote your event and provide information on how to register or attend.
• Monetize Your Event: Charge a fee for attendance or offer exclusive content and experiences to paid participants.

10. Participate in TikTok Challenges and Trends

Engaging in popular TikTok challenges and trends can increase your visibility and attract potential sponsors or brand partnerships. While this method might not directly generate income, it can help you grow your presence on the platform and open up other monetization opportunities.

Conclusion

Making money on TikTok without a large following is entirely possible with the right strategies. By leveraging various monetization methods such as the Creator Fund, affiliate marketing, selling digital products, offering services, and more, you can start earning money even with a smaller audience. Focus on creating high-quality, engaging content and explore different avenues to find what works best for you. With persistence and creativity, you can turn your TikTok presence into a profitable venture.