TikTok is a social media app used to entertain, educate, and even promote a business, and it’s suitable for all ages—40 included.
Do you think TikTok is only for the young? Think again! An ever-growing group of people over 40 are getting in on the fun, shaking things up with their unique takes on trending challenges and homemade videos.
Plus, with TikTok’s tools for marketing and advertising, businesses of all sizes can reach a much wider audience and get creative in engaging potential customers. As a result, companies that have tapped into this new demographic have achieved impressive results and seen an increase in sales.
Whether you want to learn to DJ, master a new skill or find joy in your day, TikTok has something for everyone. And it’s a great way to stay educated and connected with what’s happening and show off your latest cooking project. In addition, TikTok is the perfect platform for older adults to express themselves and remain educated about their interests.
Like every good Jewish parent, I am naturally and healthily skeptical of any social media app. What would my bubby say if I told her I spent time scrolling through six-second videos—or worse, what would my daughters say? (Writer’s note: My 18-year-old Ziggy attending seminary at EVO gave me a lot of slack on watching TikTok until she saw what I used it for.)
I’ll admit it. I gave TikTok a try, and what I found was incredible.
I started my TikTok journey as I was sitting in my backyard smoking a brisket. I immediately stumbled into what the kids call “FoodTok” and quickly found hundreds of videos with how-tos, do-nots, and fresh ideas to up my cooking game.
I thought, “Wow, this app is amazing; now, let’s see just how cool it can get.”
I had always dreamed of being a DJ and decided to see just how much I could learn about DJ-ing on TikTok. I quickly found videos telling me what equipment to buy, which software to use, and hundreds of how-to lessons from creators of all ages and backgrounds.
Now fully enrolled in TikTok university, I have been learning to DJ and mix songs. While I don’t think I will be headlining at Madison Square Garden any time soon, I would love to offer my newfound skills and passion as a service to my friends for parties and bar mitzvahs, and TikTok is who I have to thank.
TikTok is not just for entertainment and education. What I found next surprised me more than anything. I saw video interviews of political figures such as Volodymyr Zelensky and President Joe Biden.
These videos provided a deeper insight into the personal lives of public figures. This same platform is helpful for marketing, with TikTok influencers now becoming major players in the advertising world. I have also been able to follow along and learn from TikTok accounts sharing business advice and tips on how to start and manage a successful business.
On my “FYP” or “For You Page,” I stumbled across a Bergen County local, Erika Rychik, @toplinetables, [email protected], who was using TikTok to promote her new custom tablecloths business.
Erika used TikTok as the launch point for her business. She posts videos about her creations and uses TikTok to connect her with new customers and build a community. At first, I didn’t realize the potential of TikTok for marketing purposes, but Erika’s success quickly put that misconception to rest.
Whether you’re using TikTok for entertainment and education or as a platform to promote your business, there’s something here for everyone over 40. It’s certainly worth checking out.
TikTok has dangers. Any social media app is designed to keep you on it for as long as possible. As a parent, I think it’s important to keep an eye on your kids’ usage of TikTok. As long as you use it in moderation, there are plenty of great benefits to be gained by adults over 40 who use TikTok.
So, if you’re ready to dive into the TikTok world and gain the potential marketing and educational advantages, don’t wait any longer—give TikTok a try. You never know what kind of unique experiences await you.
As with any unmonitored social media platform, great care should be taken with the younger generation. As with anything on the internet, there is bad that comes with the good.
Good luck!
This week’s Ungarbled-Tech was co-written by Zalman Weisman, a freelance tech journalist, and Shneur Garb, founder of The Garb I.T. Solutions Group—Focus in AI, Azure, Cloud, Managed Cloud Print services and Meraki Wifi architecture
