TikTok is currently THE platform that has experienced one of the most significant increases in popularity in recent years. However, like all social media platforms, it is not immune to prejudices and stereotypes. Here are some common clichés frequently associated with TikTok, which turn out to be incorrect.
“TIKTOK IS A PLATFORM FOR TEENAGERS!”
For a long time, TikTok was associated with teenagers due to its popularity among this demographic group. This preconceived idea may suggest that the platform is not relevant for adults. Yet, TikTok is open to all ages, with a wide diversity of users on the network, including adults and older people. For example, in Belgium, the average age on TikTok is now 29 years old.
⇒ Although TikTok is popular among teenagers, its popularity also extends beyond young targets. This is explained by the variety of content available on the platform (entertaining, informative, and educational), which helps to attract a broader audience. Indeed, now 37.1% of Belgian users on TikTok are aged between 18 and 24 years old (>< 21.5% in France), 21.54% are aged between 25 and 34 years old (>< 31% in France).
“TIKTOK IS ALL ABOUT DANCE VIDEOS AND CHALLENGES”
While it’s true that dances and challenges are popular on TikTok, that doesn’t mean the platform is limited only to these types of content. On the contrary, it offers a wide variety of educational, informative, and creative content. TikTok users share a vast range of videos, encompassing themes from comedy to music, advice, tips and learning, personal stories and life experiences to educational and instructive content, including cooking and travel.
⇒ TikTok proves to be an extremely versatile platform, allowing you to discover and create entertaining and instructive videos that match your interests. You just need to search for the appropriate creators and relevant hashtags to find captivating videos.
“TIKTOK SPREADS INAPPROPRIATE AND DANGEROUS CONTENT”
Some stereotypes associate TikTok with inappropriate content or potentially dangerous challenges. However, the platform has established strict rules to combat these abuses. Thus, TikTok is not dangerous in itself but can pose risks depending on how users use it and their level of vigilance, as with any social network. It is therefore imperative to inform and educate TikTok users, especially the younger ones, about online safety practices, while encouraging them to exercise caution when navigating the platform. Parents and guardians play a crucial role in supervising their children’s and teenagers’ use of TikTok.
⇒ The platform has also put in place guidelines and reporting mechanisms to mitigate these concerns. Although content moderation on TikTok aims to reduce these risks, it is crucial to be aware of these problems and report any inappropriate content.
“TIKTOK STEALS MY PERSONAL DATA”
TikTok’s ownership by the Chinese company ByteDance raises concerns among some users about the security of their data. However, TikTok has taken steps to alleviate these concerns. First, by strengthening data protection measures. But also by implementing enhanced security procedures to ensure the confidentiality of users’ personal information.
⇒ It’s important to note that since July 5, 2022, all platforms comply with the Digital Services Act (DSA), a law aimed at reducing the spread of prohibited content while establishing more transparency between platforms and users.
“TIKTOK IS HIGHLY ADDICTIVE!”
Like many other platforms, TikTok is a social network often considered addictive by some users. This is due to various reasons: the “infinite” content, the captivating short videos, social interactions, personalized content, etc. However, it’s essential to note that the adjective “addictive” does not necessarily mean “harmful.” Many people use TikTok in a balanced way and benefit from its entertaining and educational content.
⇒ The problem of addiction arises when TikTok starts to encroach on users’ daily responsibilities and affects their digital time usage. That’s why it’s wise to practice thoughtful and responsible management of time spent on the platform.
Note:
Before you dive into TikTok, it’s important to set aside prejudices and preconceived ideas surrounding the platform. Think about how TikTok can fit into an effective and relevant strategy for your business.