Written by Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, has become one of the most popular and influential social media platforms in China. With a vast user base and a huge amount of video content, Douyin offers a unique opportunity for foreign brands to expand their presence in the Chinese market.
In this article, we will explore how Douyin works and how to open an official account for foreign companies. We will also look at examples of how brands can use this platform to increase brand awareness and sales.
How DouYin works:
Douyin is a social media application that focuses on sharing short and engaging videos. Users can create and publish videos ranging from comedy clips and dances to beauty tutorials and lifestyle tips. Douyin’s algorithm uses artificial intelligence to personalize users’ feeds based on their preferences, making the user experience highly engaging.
How to Open an Official Account on Douyin (for foreign companies):
Firstly, it is important to specify the difference between a general account and a verified account on Douyin. Only the latter allows you to promote and increase the visibility of your account, access and analyze account data, collaborate with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs), and market products during live streams (this last option is available only for accounts that also open and link a store on Douyin).
In short, only verified accounts provide the opportunity to implement marketing strategies on Chinese TikTok. Otherwise, your account will behave like a personal account.
Only companies with an ICP license (Chinese companies) are allowed to verify their Douyin accounts. Therefore, foreign brands have two options:
- Open a Chinese branch of their company.
- Use the license of a local partner.
(We can help you with both, contact us!)
Lastly, the Douyin app is only available in China. To download it, you need to be in China, use a VPN that locates you in China, or change the geographic settings on your phone.
Now that we have clarified why you should have a verified account, let’s see how to open a Douyin account:
• Once you have downloaded the app, accept the terms and conditions.
• Now, look at the bottom right of the page, you will need to click on “me” written in Chinese characters 我.
• You will be asked for your mobile number. Enter it correctly, including the international prefix.
• With the pink selection button, click on “send code” in Chinese: 获取短信验证码. Now you will need to solve a security puzzle.
• Enter the code received on your mobile phone.
• The next step is verification! You are ready to verify your account.
To initiate the verification process, personal accounts must have at least one shared video, a linked mobile number, and a minimum of ten thousand followers.
For the verification of a business account, in addition to the Chinese ICP license, you need access to a Chinese mobile number and payment of an annual renewal fee.
Douyin Account Verification:
- From your browser, log into your Douyin account and click on “request verification.”
- A pop-up with a QR code will appear, scan it. You will be asked to fill out the verification form.
- You will receive a verification code. A Douyin representative will contact you within a week of submitting the verification form. This contact is to request further information or openly approve your verification.
- Now you have a verified account ready to increase the visibility of your brand in China.
What are the tools to promote your business in China through Douyin?
Micro-videos:
Brands can create short and engaging videos showcasing their products, providing tips, or sharing success stories. It is important to adapt to Douyin’s tone and style to maximize user engagement.
Influencers:
Influencers play a significant role on Douyin, and collaborations with Chinese influencers can increase brand visibility. Identifying relevant influencers in the industry and working with them to promote products can reach a broader audience.
E-commerce:
Douyin integrates e-commerce features that allow brands to sell directly through the platform. Brands can create virtual stores, offer exclusive discounts, and promote products to generate sales.
To recap, Douyin offers a tremendous opportunity for brands to expand their presence in the Chinese market. Opening an official account on Douyin and using targeted digital marketing strategies can help increase brand awareness, reach a wide audience, and generate sales. With the right approach and understanding of evolving trends on Douyin, foreign brands can achieve significant results in the Chinese market.
Contact us if you want to open your Douyin account!