With over 1 billion active monthly users, TikTok is one of the leading platforms for influencer marketing campaigns.
Let’s say you’ve decided to work with some TikTok influencers. You’ve shortlisted a few that you would like to contact. However, there is one tiny problem.. You cannot directly message anyone on TikTok unless you both follow each other.
So, how do you contact TikTok influencers?
How To Contact TikTok Influencers: 6 Methods
Even if you can’t message TikTok influencers directly on the app, there are still plenty of ways to reach out to them. Here are six effective options!
1.Check Their Bio
Many TikTok influencers understand that brands may want to reach them, even if direct messaging on TikTok isn’t possible. Since their careers often depend on securing sponsorships, they usually include a contact email or a link to their website in their bio. You can use this to connect with them.
Some influencers may have a “contact me” form on their website. If that’s their preferred way to receive brand offers, it’s best to follow their lead. If there’s no form available, sending an email is often the next best option. From experience, we’ve found that emails tend to get better response rates than direct messages on platforms like TikTok or Instagram.
Be sure to put together a solid pitch introducing yourself, your brand, and some key details about the influencer campaign. Mention whether you’re looking for a long-term partnership or a one-time collaboration. Including an influencer campaign brief in your email can also be helpful, as it presents campaign details in an easy-to-read format.
Finally, write an eye-catching subject line to encourage the TikTok influencer to open your email in the first place.
2. Check Their Other Social Media Accounts
Many TikTok influencers link their other social media profiles in their TikTok bio. So, if you don’t find an email or website listed on TikTok, try looking on their Instagram or YouTube account.
On Instagram, influencers often provide an email address under the contact section, making it easy to reach out via email.
To find an email on their YouTube channel, go to the “About” section and click on “View email address”—simple as that!
If they haven’t linked their other social media pages in their TikTok bio, you can search for their username on platforms like Instagram or YouTube. Influencers typically use the same username across their profiles, making it easy to locate and connect with them.
3. Look Them Up on LinkedIn
Try searching for the influencer's name on LinkedIn, or add "LinkedIn" to their name in a Google search, like "Bella Hadid LinkedIn." Many influencers use LinkedIn to connect with brands, so there's a good chance you’ll find them there. If you do, send them a connection request with a brief, engaging message. Mention that you’re interested in collaborating and add a touch of personality to stand out, as they likely get many invitations.
Another approach is to join LinkedIn groups that match your niche. These groups can be ideal for finding influencers, especially in specialized fields, like solar power. Engage with the group and build natural connections with influencers before reaching out. As a bonus, these groups may provide valuable insights into audience preferences—a helpful advantage for your marketing efforts.
4. Follow Them First
Once you’ve identified a TikTok influencer who aligns with your brand, start by following them. Since you’re in their niche, there’s a chance they’ll follow you back, which would give you access to the DM feature.
This approach can be especially effective with micro-influencers, who tend to have fewer notifications, so your follow is more likely to get noticed.
Pro Tip: Make sure your profile is complete and has a few posts before reaching out or following influencers—this helps avoid coming across as a spam account.
5. Engage with Their Content
Engaging with influencers’ content is still one of the best ways to capture their attention on social media. It may take more time than other methods, but it helps build a genuine connection.
Start by liking and commenting on a few of their posts to show you’re genuinely interested in their content. Just avoid overdoing it! Once you’ve established a connection, you can mention a potential collaboration. If you have a campaign that suits their style, let them know.
6. Try an Influencer Marketplace
Besides TikTok’s official marketplace, platforms like SocialBook offer easy ways to find and connect with influencers. Many influencers on these marketplaces are accessible even with small budgets.
You can search by niche and set follower count preferences, viewing complete influencer profiles. When you’re ready, send them an offer directly through the platform!
So, there you have it—six ways to reach out to TikTok influencers. Now for the million-dollar question…
Is Running an Influencer Marketing Campaign on TikTok Worth It?
Absolutely! TikTok is one of the most influential platforms today, and its popularity continues to soar. There are numerous examples of successful influencer marketing campaigns on TikTok that highlight the platform's immense potential.
The short video format, combined with the platform's highly visual nature, makes TikTok an ideal environment for influencer marketing. You can effectively showcase your products or services while gaining exposure to thousands of potential customers, especially when collaborating with influencers.
So, plan your marketing campaign, reach out to TikTok influencers, and get started!
By selecting influencers who align with your values and using platforms like SocialBook for valuable insights, you can create effective campaigns that truly resonate. Don't forget to clarify your objectives and use relevant hashtags to enhance your reach.
Embrace the potential of TikTok influencer marketing, and you’ll not only attract but also engage and retain a loyal customer base, paving the way for your brand’s success in the digital landscape.