How to Create Paid Social Accounts and Ads on TikTok in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

TikTok has rapidly become one of the most influential social media platforms, with over 1 billion active users worldwide. For businesses, this presents a golden opportunity to reach a vast and engaged audience. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up paid social accounts and creating effective ads on TikTok in 2025.

Why Advertise on TikTok?

TikTok's unique algorithm and highly engaged user base make it an ideal platform for advertising. Here are some reasons why you should consider TikTok for your marketing strategy:

• Massive Reach: With over 1 billion active users, TikTok offers unparalleled reach.
• Engaged Audience: TikTok users are highly engaged, spending an average of 52 minutes per day on the app.
• Creative Freedom: TikTok's format encourages creativity, allowing brands to create engaging and entertaining content.
• Advanced Targeting: TikTok offers sophisticated targeting options to reach your ideal audience.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Paid Social Accounts on TikTok

1. Create a TikTok Business Account

To start advertising on TikTok, you need to create a TikTok Business Account. Here’s how to set it up:

1. Download the TikTok App: If you haven't already, download the TikTok app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Sign Up or Log In: Open the app and sign up for a new account or log in to your existing account.
3. Switch to a Business Account: Go to your profile, tap the three dots in the top right corner, and select "Manage Account." Choose "Switch to Business Account" and follow the prompts to complete the setup.

2. Set Up TikTok Ads Manager

Once you have a Business Account, you need to set up TikTok Ads Manager to create and manage your ads. Here’s how:

1. Visit TikTok Ads Manager: Go to TikTok Ads Manager.
2. Create an Account: Click on "Create an Ad" and follow the prompts to set up your account.
3. Enter Business Information: Provide your business name, contact information, and payment details.
4. Verify Your Account: Follow the verification steps sent to your email to complete the setup.

3. Install the TikTok Pixel

The TikTok Pixel is a piece of code that you place on your website to track user interactions and conversions. Here’s how to install it:

1. Access Pixel Setup: In TikTok Ads Manager, go to "Assets" and select "Event."
2. Create Pixel: Click "Create Pixel" and follow the prompts to generate your Pixel code.
3. Install Pixel: Add the Pixel code to your website’s header. If you use a platform like Shopify or WordPress, you can use their integration tools to simplify this process.

Creating Effective TikTok Ads

1. Define Your Campaign Objectives

Before creating your ads, it’s essential to define your campaign objectives. TikTok offers several objectives, including:

• Awareness: Increase brand awareness and reach a broad audience.
• Consideration: Drive traffic to your website or app.
• Conversion: Encourage specific actions, such as purchases or sign-ups.

2. Choose Your Ad Format

TikTok offers various ad formats to suit different campaign goals. Here are some popular formats:

• In-Feed Ads: These ads appear in users' feeds as they scroll through TikTok. They can include images, videos, and call-to-action buttons.
• TopView Ads: These ads appear when users first open the TikTok app, providing maximum visibility.
• Branded Hashtag Challenges: Encourage users to create content around a specific hashtag, boosting engagement and brand awareness.
• Branded Effects: Create custom filters and effects that users can apply to their videos.

3. Create Compelling Ad Content

Creating engaging and creative content is crucial for the success of your TikTok ads. Here are some tips:

• Keep it Short and Sweet: TikTok videos are typically short, so get to the point quickly.
• Use High-Quality Visuals: Ensure your videos are high resolution and visually appealing.
• Incorporate Music and Effects: Use TikTok’s extensive library of music and effects to make your ads more engaging.
• Include a Strong CTA: Encourage users to take action with a clear and compelling call-to-action.

4. Set Up Your Ad Campaign

Once you have your content ready, it’s time to set up your ad campaign in TikTok Ads Manager. Here’s how:

1. Create a Campaign: In TikTok Ads Manager, click "Campaign" and then "Create."
2. Choose Objective: Select your campaign objective (e.g., Awareness, Consideration, Conversion).
3. Set Budget: Choose between a daily or total budget and set your budget amount.
4. Create Ad Group: Define your target audience, ad placements, and bidding strategy.
5. Upload Ad Content: Upload your ad creatives and add any necessary text or call-to-action buttons.
6. Review and Launch: Review your campaign settings and click "Submit" to launch your ad.

5. Monitor and Optimize Your Ads

After launching your ads, it’s essential to monitor their performance and make necessary adjustments. Here are some key metrics to track:

• Impressions: The number of times your ad is displayed.
• Clicks: The number of times users click on your ad.
• CTR (Click-Through Rate): The percentage of impressions that result in clicks.
• Conversions: The number of desired actions (e.g., purchases, sign-ups) completed by users.
• CPA (Cost Per Acquisition): The cost of acquiring a new customer or lead.

6. A/B Testing

A/B testing involves running multiple versions of your ad to see which performs better. Test different elements such as:

• Headlines: Try different headlines to see which one resonates most with your audience.
• Ad Copy: Experiment with different ad copy to find the most effective messaging.
• Visuals: Test various images or videos to determine which ones capture the most attention.
• CTAs: Try different call-to-action buttons to see which one drives the most conversions.

7. Leveraging TikTok Analytics

TikTok provides detailed analytics to help you understand how your ads are performing. Use these insights to refine your strategies and improve your campaigns. Key metrics to monitor include:

• Engagement Rate: The percentage of users who interact with your ad (likes, comments, shares).
• Video Completion Rate: The percentage of users who watch your video ad to the end.
• Audience Demographics: Information about the age, gender, and location of your audience.
• Ad Spend: Track your spending to ensure you stay within your budget.

8. Utilizing TikTok’s Creative Tools

TikTok offers a range of creative tools to help you create engaging ads. Here are some tools you can use:

• Video Creation Kit: Use templates to create professional-looking videos quickly.
• Smart Video: Automatically generate video ads from your existing images and videos.
• Interactive Add-Ons: Add interactive elements like polls and stickers to your ads to boost engagement.

9. Implementing Retargeting Strategies

Retargeting allows you to reach users who have previously interacted with your brand. Use retargeting to remind potential customers about your products and encourage them to complete their purchase. This can be done through:

• Website Retargeting: Target users who have visited your website but did not convert.
• Engagement Retargeting: Target users who have interacted with your content on TikTok.
• Customer List Retargeting: Upload your customer list to target existing customers with new offers.

10. Collaborating with Influencers

Influencer marketing can amplify your reach and credibility. Partner with influencers who align with your brand values and have a strong following in your target market. Steps to collaborate effectively include:

1. Identify Relevant Influencers: Use tools like TikTok Creator Marketplace to find influencers.
2. Negotiate Terms: Discuss deliverables, timelines, and compensation.
3. Track Performance: Use unique tracking links or promo codes to measure the impact of influencer campaigns.

11. Focusing on Video Content

Video content continues to dominate social media. Create engaging video ads that capture attention quickly and convey your message effectively. Tips for creating compelling video ads include:

1. Keep it Short: Aim for videos under 15 seconds.
2. Highlight Key Messages Early: Capture attention within the first few seconds.
3. Use Captions: Many users watch videos without sound; include captions to convey your message.

12. Optimizing for Mobile

With the majority of users accessing TikTok via mobile devices, optimizing your ads for mobile is crucial. Ensure your visuals and copy are mobile-friendly by:

1. Using Vertical Formats: Create ads in vertical formats to fit mobile screens.
2. Simplifying Design: Avoid clutter and focus on clear, bold visuals.
3. Testing on Mobile Devices: Preview your ads on mobile devices to ensure they look good.

13. Leveraging User-Generated Content (UGC)

User-generated content (UGC) adds authenticity to your ads. Encourage satisfied customers to share their experiences and feature them in your campaigns. Benefits of UGC include:

• Building Trust: UGC is perceived as more trustworthy than brand-created content.
• Increasing Engagement: UGC often generates higher engagement rates.
• Cost-Effective: UGC can be a cost-effective way to create content.

14. Staying Updated with Trends

Digital marketing trends evolve rapidly. Stay informed about the latest trends and updates in TikTok ads to keep your campaigns relevant and effective. Ways to stay updated include:

• Following Industry Blogs: Read blogs from TikTok and other digital marketing experts.
• Attending Webinars and Conferences: Participate in events to learn from industry leaders.
• Joining Online Communities: Engage with other marketers in forums and social media groups.

15. Using High-Quality Visuals

High-quality visuals are essential for capturing attention. Invest in professional photography and videography to create visually appealing ads. Tips for creating high-quality visuals include:

• Hiring Professionals: Work with professional photographers and videographers.
• Using High-Resolution Images: Ensure your images are high resolution and clear.
• Maintaining Brand Consistency: Use consistent colors, fonts, and styles to reinforce your brand identity.

16. Focusing on Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool in advertising. Use your ads to tell a compelling story that resonates with your audience and highlights the benefits of your products or services. Elements of effective storytelling include:

• Relatable Characters: Use characters that your audience can relate to.
• Emotional Appeal: Evoke emotions to create a deeper connection with your audience.
• Clear Narrative: Ensure your story has a clear beginning, middle, and end.

17. Implementing Advanced Targeting Techniques

TikTok's advanced targeting options allow you to reach highly specific audiences. Techniques to enhance your targeting include:

• Interest Targeting: Target users based on their interests and activities.
• Behavioral Targeting: Target users based on their past behaviors and actions.
• Geographic Targeting: Target users in specific locations.
• Demographic Targeting: Target users based on demographic information such as age, gender, and income level.

18. Utilizing TikTok’s Creative Hub

TikTok’s Creative Hub is a valuable tool for designing, previewing, and sharing ad mockups. It allows you to collaborate with your team and experiment with different ad formats before launching your campaigns. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Design Mockups: Create and customize ad mockups using various templates and tools.
• Preview Ads: See how your ads will look across different devices and placements.
• Collaborate: Share mockups with your team for feedback and approval.
• Experiment: Test different creative ideas and formats to find what works best for your audience.

19. Implementing Cross-Platform Campaigns

TikTok ads can be run across multiple platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. To maximize your reach and effectiveness, implement cross-platform campaigns:

• Consistent Messaging: Ensure your messaging is consistent across all platforms.
• Platform-Specific Content: Tailor your content to fit the unique features and audience of each platform.
• Unified Reporting: Use TikTok’s unified reporting tools to track performance across all platforms.

20. Leveraging Augmented Reality (AR) Ads

Augmented Reality (AR) ads are becoming increasingly popular and can provide an immersive experience for users. Here’s how to leverage AR ads:

• Interactive Experiences: Create interactive experiences that allow users to engage with your products in a virtual environment.
• Product Visualization: Use AR to help users visualize how products will look in their real-world environment.
• Engagement Metrics: Track engagement metrics to understand how users are interacting with your AR ads.

21. Utilizing TikTok Pixel for Conversion Tracking

The TikTok Pixel is a piece of code that you place on your website to track user interactions and conversions. Here’s how to utilize it effectively:

• Install the Pixel: Add the TikTok Pixel to your website to start tracking user behavior.
• Track Conversions: Set up conversion tracking to measure actions such as purchases, sign-ups, and downloads.
• Optimize Campaigns: Use the data collected by the Pixel to optimize your ad campaigns for better performance.

22. Creating Lookalike Audiences

Lookalike Audiences allow you to reach new people who are similar to your existing customers. Here’s how to create and use Lookalike Audiences:

• Source Audience: Choose a source audience, such as your customer list or website visitors.
• Audience Size: Select the size of your Lookalike Audience, balancing reach and similarity.
• Targeting: Use Lookalike Audiences to target new users who are likely to be interested in your products.

23. Implementing Automated Rules

Automated rules can help you manage your ad campaigns more efficiently by automating certain actions based on predefined criteria. Here’s how to implement automated rules:

• Set Criteria: Define the criteria for your automated rules, such as budget limits, performance thresholds, and scheduling.
• Create Rules: Use TikTok’s Ads Manager to create and apply automated rules to your campaigns.
• Monitor Performance: Regularly review the performance of your automated rules and adjust as needed.

24. Utilizing TikTok’s Audience Insights

Audience Insights provides detailed information about your target audience, helping you make informed decisions about your ad campaigns. Here’s how to use Audience Insights:

• Demographic Data: Analyze demographic data such as age, gender, and location.
• Interest Data: Understand the interests and behaviors of your audience.
• Competitive Analysis: Compare your audience with those of your competitors to identify opportunities.

25. Creating Custom Audiences

Custom Audiences allow you to target specific groups of people based on their interactions with your business. Here’s how to create and use Custom Audiences:

• Customer Lists: Upload your customer list to create a Custom Audience.
• Website Traffic: Use the TikTok Pixel to create Custom Audiences based on website visitors.
• App Activity: Target users based on their interactions with your mobile app.

26. Leveraging TikTok’s Learning Phase

The Learning Phase is a period when TikTok’s delivery system is learning about your ad set. Here’s how to leverage the Learning Phase:

• Allow Time: Give your ad sets enough time to exit the Learning Phase before making significant changes.
• Monitor Performance: Track performance during the Learning Phase to identify trends and insights.
• Optimize: Use the data from the Learning Phase to optimize your ad sets for better performance.

27. Utilizing TikTok’s Creative Reporting

Creative Reporting provides insights into how different creatives are performing. Here’s how to use Creative Reporting:

• Analyze Performance: Review performance metrics for each creative to identify top performers.
• Test Variations: Test different variations of your creatives to find what works best.
• Optimize Creatives: Use the insights from Creative Reporting to optimize your creatives for better results.

28. Implementing Seasonal Campaigns

Seasonal campaigns can help you capitalize on key shopping periods and holidays. Here’s how to implement effective seasonal campaigns:

• Plan Ahead: Start planning your seasonal campaigns well in advance.
• Tailor Messaging: Customize your messaging to align with the season or holiday.
• Promotions and Discounts: Offer special promotions and discounts to attract customers.

29. Utilizing TikTok’s Ad Library

TikTok’s Ad Library provides transparency into all ads currently running on TikTok’s platforms. Here’s how to use the Ad Library:

• Competitive Analysis: Analyze your competitors’ ads to gain insights into their strategies.
• Trend Identification: Identify trends and popular ad formats in your industry.
• Inspiration: Use the Ad Library to find inspiration for your own ad campaigns.

30. Implementing Multi-Product Ads

Multi-Product Ads, also known as Carousel Ads, allow you to showcase multiple products or features in a single ad. Here’s how to implement Multi-Product Ads:

• Select Products: Choose the products or features you want to showcase.
• Create Carousel: Use TikTok’s ad creation tools to create a carousel ad with multiple images or videos.
• Optimize Order: Test different orders of your carousel items to find the most effective arrangement.

31. Leveraging TikTok’s Automated App Ads

Automated App Ads simplify the process of promoting your mobile app. Here’s how to leverage Automated App Ads:

• Set Objectives: Define your app promotion objectives, such as installs or in-app actions.
• Create Ads: Use TikTok’s automated tools to create and optimize your app ads.
• Monitor Performance: Track the performance of your app ads and make adjustments as needed.

32. Utilizing TikTok’s Video Creation Kit

TikTok’s Video Creation Kit helps you create engaging video ads quickly and easily. Here’s how to use the Video Creation Kit:

• Choose Template: Select a template that fits your ad objectives.
• Customize Content: Add your own images, videos, and text to the template.
• Preview and Publish: Preview your video ad and make any necessary adjustments before publishing.

33. Implementing Geo-Targeting

Geo-targeting allows you to target users based on their geographic location. Here’s how to implement geo-targeting:

• Define Locations: Choose the geographic locations you want to target, such as countries, regions, cities, or even specific zip codes.
• Customize Messaging: Tailor your ad messaging to resonate with users in different locations. For example, highlight local events or promotions.
• Monitor Performance: Track the performance of your geo-targeted ads to see which locations are driving the best results and adjust your strategy accordingly.

34. Leveraging TikTok’s Split Testing

Split testing, also known as A/B testing, allows you to test different versions of your ads to see which performs better. Here’s how to leverage split testing:

• Define Variables: Choose the variables you want to test, such as headlines, images, or CTAs.
• Create Variations: Create multiple versions of your ad with different variations of the chosen variables.
• Analyze Results: Compare the performance of each variation to determine the best-performing ad.
• Optimize: Use the insights from your split tests to optimize your future ad campaigns.

35. Utilizing TikTok’s Brand Safety Tools

TikTok’s Brand Safety tools help ensure your ads appear in safe and appropriate contexts. Here’s how to use Brand Safety tools:

• Set Controls: Use TikTok’s controls to exclude certain content categories or publishers that don’t align with your brand values.
• Monitor Placements: Regularly review where your ads are being placed and make adjustments as needed.
• Use Whitelists and Blacklists: Create whitelists of preferred publishers and blacklists of excluded ones to control where your ads appear.

36. Implementing TikTok’s Collaborative Ads

Collaborative Ads allow retailers to partner with brands to promote products. Here’s how to implement Collaborative Ads:

• Partner with Retailers: Identify retailers who sell your products and establish partnerships.
• Create Ads: Use TikTok’s tools to create Collaborative Ads that feature your products.
• Track Performance: Monitor the performance of your Collaborative Ads and optimize as needed to ensure they are driving the desired results.

37. Leveraging TikTok’s Automated Rules

Automated rules can help you manage your ad campaigns more efficiently by automating certain actions based on predefined criteria. Here’s how to implement automated rules:

• Set Criteria: Define the criteria for your automated rules, such as budget limits, performance thresholds, and scheduling.
• Create Rules: Use TikTok’s Ads Manager to create and apply automated rules to your campaigns.
• Monitor Performance: Regularly review the performance of your automated rules and adjust as needed to ensure they are working effectively.

38. Utilizing TikTok’s Audience Network

TikTok’s Audience Network extends the reach of your ads beyond TikTok’s platform to a network of third-party apps and websites. Here’s how to utilize the Audience Network:

• Enable Audience Network: When creating your ad campaign, enable the Audience Network option to expand your reach.
• Monitor Performance: Track the performance of your ads on the Audience Network to see how they are performing compared to TikTok.
• Optimize Placements: Adjust your ad placements based on performance data to ensure you are getting the best results from the Audience Network.

39. Implementing TikTok’s Dynamic Ads

Dynamic ads automatically show the right products to people who have expressed interest on your website, in your app, or elsewhere on the internet. Here’s how to implement dynamic ads:

• Catalog Setup: Create a product catalog in TikTok’s Commerce Manager.
• Pixel Integration: Ensure your website has the TikTok Pixel installed to track user behavior.
• Ad Creation: Use the dynamic ad template to automatically populate ads with products from your catalog.

40. Utilizing TikTok’s Video Creation Kit

TikTok’s Video Creation Kit helps you create engaging video ads quickly and easily. Here’s how to use the Video Creation Kit:

• Choose Template: Select a template that fits your ad objectives.
• Customize Content: Add your own images, videos, and text to the template.
• Preview and Publish: Preview your video ad and make any necessary adjustments before publishing.

41. Implementing TikTok’s Interactive Add-Ons

Interactive add-ons can enhance your ads by adding elements like polls, stickers, and countdowns. Here’s how to implement interactive add-ons:

• Select Add-On: Choose the interactive add-on that best fits your campaign goals.
• Customize: Tailor the add-on to match your brand and message.
• Monitor Engagement: Track how users interact with the add-on and adjust your strategy based on the results.

42. Leveraging TikTok’s Smart Video

Smart Video is a tool that automatically generates video ads from your existing images and videos. Here’s how to leverage Smart Video:

• Upload Assets: Upload your images and videos to TikTok’s Smart Video tool.
• Customize: Adjust the settings to match your brand and campaign goals.
• Generate Video: Let Smart Video create a professional-looking video ad for you.

43. Utilizing TikTok’s Ad Library

TikTok’s Ad Library provides transparency into all ads currently running on TikTok’s platforms. Here’s how to use the Ad Library:

• Competitive Analysis: Analyze your competitors’ ads to gain insights into their strategies.
• Trend Identification: Identify trends and popular ad formats in your industry.
• Inspiration: Use the Ad Library to find inspiration for your own ad campaigns.

44. Implementing TikTok’s Multi-Product Ads

Multi-Product Ads, also known as Carousel Ads, allow you to showcase multiple products or features in a single ad. Here’s how to implement Multi-Product Ads:

• Select Products: Choose the products or features you want to showcase.
• Create Carousel: Use TikTok’s ad creation tools to create a carousel ad with multiple images or videos.
• Optimize Order: Test different orders of your carousel items to find the most effective arrangement.

45. Leveraging TikTok’s Automated App Ads

Automated App Ads simplify the process of promoting your mobile app. Here’s how to leverage Automated App Ads:

• Set Objectives: Define your app promotion objectives, such as installs or in-app actions.
• Create Ads: Use TikTok’s automated tools to create and optimize your app ads.
• Monitor Performance: Track the performance of your app ads and make adjustments as needed.

46. Utilizing TikTok’s Video Creation Kit

TikTok’s Video Creation Kit helps you create engaging video ads quickly and easily. Here’s how to use the Video Creation Kit:

• Choose Template: Select a template that fits your ad objectives.
• Customize Content: Add your own images, videos, and text to the template.
• Preview and Publish: Preview your video ad and make any necessary adjustments before publishing.

47. Implementing TikTok’s Geo-Targeting

Geo-targeting allows you to target users based on their geographic location. Here’s how to implement geo-targeting:

• Define Locations: Choose the geographic locations you want to target, such as countries, regions, cities, or even specific zip codes.
• Customize Messaging: Tailor your ad messaging to resonate with users in different locations. For example, highlight local events or promotions.
• Monitor Performance: Track the performance of your geo-targeted ads to see which locations are driving the best results and adjust your strategy accordingly.

48. Leveraging TikTok’s Split Testing

Split testing, also known as A/B testing, allows you to test different versions of your ads to see which performs better. Here’s how to leverage split testing:

• Define Variables: Choose the variables you want to test, such as headlines, images, or CTAs.
• Create Variations: Create multiple versions of your ad with different variations of the chosen variables.
• Analyze Results: Compare the performance of each variation to determine the best-performing ad.
• Optimize: Use the insights from your split tests to optimize your future ad campaigns.

49. Utilizing TikTok’s Brand Safety Tools

TikTok’s Brand Safety tools help ensure your ads appear in safe and appropriate contexts. Here’s how to use Brand Safety tools:

• Set Controls: Use TikTok’s controls to exclude certain content categories or publishers that don’t align with your brand values.
• Monitor Placements: Regularly review where your ads are being placed and make adjustments as needed.
• Use Whitelists and Blacklists: Create whitelists of preferred publishers and blacklists of excluded ones to control where your ads appear.

50. Implementing TikTok’s Collaborative Ads

Collaborative Ads allow retailers to partner with brands to promote products. Here’s how to implement Collaborative Ads:

• Partner with Retailers: Identify retailers who sell your products and establish partnerships.
• Create Ads: Use TikTok’s tools to create Collaborative Ads that feature your products.
• Track Performance: Monitor the performance of your Collaborative Ads and optimize as needed to ensure they are driving the desired results.

Conclusion

Creating effective TikTok ads in 2025 requires a strategic approach, from setting up your business account to leveraging advanced tools and best practices. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll be well-equipped to create ads that not only reach your target audience but also drive meaningful results.

Remember, the key to success lies in continuous learning and adaptation. Stay updated with the latest trends, monitor your ad performance, and be ready to make adjustments as needed. Happy advertising!

Helpful links:

SocialPilot’s Guide to TikTok Ads
A detailed resource on TikTok ad formats, including examples and specifications for creating impactful campaigns. It also explains how to use TikTok Pixel for analytics. Visit the SocialPilot Guide​

LYFE Marketing’s Beginner’s Guide to TikTok Ads
This guide walks you through setting up a TikTok ad campaign, including audience targeting, budget management, and using tracking tools effectively. Check out LYFE Marketing’s Guide

TikTok Business Help Center
This official page provides resources on setting up TikTok ads, using advanced tools like TikTok Pixel, and creating impactful campaigns. Visit the Help Center​

TikTok for Business Guide
Learn about TikTok's diverse ad formats, campaign creation, and targeting strategies to help you effectively reach your audience. Explore TikTok for Business​ TikTok Ads