How to Make Money on TikTok with a Small Account

Last updated on September 14th, 2024 at 11:03 am

TikTok is often associated with large influencers and viral content, but did you know you can still make money on TikTok with a small account?

Many people think that you need millions of followers to start earning, but that’s not true.

If you’re strategic about it, even with a modest following, you can monetize your content and turn TikTok into a revenue stream.

 

Make Money on TikTok with a Small Account

Make money on TikTok with a small account by focusing on niche content.

Partnering with micro-influencers, leveraging affiliate marketing, and using in-app features like gifts during live streams to generate income.

In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make money on TikTok with a small account.

By leveraging unique strategies and tools available to every creator.

 

Can You Really Make Money on TikTok with a Small Account?

The simple answer is yes! While having a large follower base can open more doors for monetization.

Smaller accounts have the advantage of building niche audiences and creating engaged communities.

Whether you have 1,000 or 10,000 followers, what matters most is the level of engagement you have with your audience.

Brands and marketers often seek out accounts with a loyal fanbase, even if they’re smaller in number, to promote their products or services.

Here are actionable steps on how to make money on TikTok with a small account:

 

1. Partner with Brands for Sponsored Content

Even if your TikTok account is relatively small, brands are still looking for influencers with genuine, highly engaged followers.

Smaller influencers, also known as micro or nano-influencers, are often perceived as more authentic, making them attractive to brands. To start:

• Reach out to small businesses or niche brands in your area of interest.
• Craft a compelling pitch showcasing your engagement and the kind of content you produce.
• Tag brands in your videos to get their attention.

You can monetize through sponsored posts by collaborating with brands that align with your content, offering paid promotions in return for exposure to your audience.

 

2. Join TikTok’s Creator Fund

TikTok’s Creator Fund is one of the easiest ways to make money on TikTok with a small account.

Although it’s typically available for users with at least 10,000 followers, you can work your way up by consistently creating quality content. Once you qualify:

• Apply for the Creator Fund through the TikTok app.
• Start earning based on the number of views you get on your videos.
• Increase your follower count to maximize payouts from the fund.

While this method requires more effort to meet the follower threshold, it’s a great long-term strategy.

 

3. Sell Products or Merchandise

Another way to make money on TikTok with a small account is by selling your own products or merchandise.

If you have a small, loyal following, they may be willing to support you by purchasing custom merchandise or products you offer. For instance:

• Create and sell branded merchandise like T-shirts, hats, or accessories.
• Promote digital products like eBooks, presets, or guides related to your content.
• Use TikTok’s shopping feature to link directly to your online store.

This approach works particularly well if your content is based around a specific niche, such as beauty, fitness, or education.

 

4. Leverage Affiliate Marketing

Affiliate marketing is one of the easiest and most accessible ways to make money on TikTok with a small account.

You don’t need a massive following to make affiliate sales.

Here’s how it works:

• Partner with companies or platforms that offer affiliate programs.
• Share links in your TikTok bio or video descriptions.
• Earn a commission every time someone makes a purchase using your unique link.

To succeed in affiliate marketing, focus on promoting products you genuinely believe in and that resonate with your audience.

 

5. Offer Consulting or Coaching Services

If you have expertise in a particular field, you can monetize your small TikTok account by offering consulting or coaching services.

For example, if you’re skilled in digital marketing, fitness, or another area, use your platform to:

• Promote one-on-one or group coaching sessions.
• Share tips and tricks in your videos to demonstrate your knowledge.
• Direct viewers to your website or consultation booking page.

This can be an excellent way to monetize your expertise, regardless of how many followers you have.

 

6. Use TikTok Live Gifts

One of the fun ways to make money on TikTok with a small account is through TikTok Live Gifts.

When you go live on TikTok, your followers can send you virtual gifts, which can be converted into real money. Here’s how to start:

• Go live regularly and engage with your audience.
• Encourage viewers to send you gifts.
• Cash out those gifts for real money.

This method works best when you have an engaged community who enjoys your live content and wants to support you.

 

7. Create Paid Subscriptions

Another way to make money on TikTok with a small account is by offering paid subscriptions.

Some users are willing to pay for exclusive content or behind-the-scenes access to their favorite creators. You can:

• Set up a Patreon or similar service where fans can pay for extra content.
• Offer exclusive tips, Q&A sessions, or tutorials for paying subscribers.
• Promote your subscription services in your TikTok videos.

This strategy not only helps you make money but also deepens your relationship with your most loyal fans.

 

8. Monetize Your Music or Art

If you’re a musician, artist, or creator, TikTok can serve as an excellent platform to promote and sell your work.

Here’s how to make money on TikTok with a small account as an artist:

• Share snippets of your music or artwork on TikTok.
• Direct followers to your Spotify, Bandcamp, or Etsy store for full versions or prints.
• Use TikTok’s sound library to promote your original music.

Even with a smaller following, you can build a dedicated fanbase that supports your creative endeavors financially.

 

9. Build an Email List for Future Opportunities

One of the long-term strategies for making money on TikTok with a small account is to build an email list.

This allows you to nurture your relationship with followers outside of TikTok and eventually monetize through offers, services, or products. Here’s how:

• Offer free resources, such as eBooks or exclusive content, in exchange for an email sign-up.
• Promote your email list in your TikTok bio or videos.
• Use your list to sell products, promote services, or offer affiliate deals in the future.

Building an email list ensures you have a more direct way to reach and monetize your audience, even outside the platform.

 

FAQs How to Make Money on TikTok with a Small Account

How many followers do I need to start making money on TikTok?

While some methods require a minimum follower count, you can start making money on TikTok with a small account, often with just a few thousand followers.

 

Can I join TikTok’s Creator Fund with a small account?

You need at least 10,000 followers to apply for TikTok’s Creator Fund, but you can focus on growing your account to reach that threshold.

 

What is the best way to monetize a small TikTok account?

Affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and selling merchandise are some of the best ways to monetize a small TikTok account.

 

Can I sell my products directly on TikTok?

Yes, TikTok has a shopping feature that allows you to link your products directly in your videos.

 

How often should I post on TikTok to grow my account?

Consistency is key. Try posting at least once a day to engage your audience and attract more followers.

 

Conclusion

Making money on TikTok with a small account is not only possible but also a smart way to monetize a niche audience.

By partnering with brands, leveraging affiliate marketing, and offering services, you can start earning, even if you don’t have millions of followers.

The key is engagement, consistency, and a clear strategy.

So, start exploring these opportunities and see how you can turn your small TikTok account into a profitable venture.