TikTok’s #GrowWithTikTok masterclass fuels Sri Lankan SMBs to conquer digital scene

By Tania de Silva

TikTok’s #GrowWithTikTok masterclass held recently in Colombo drew a lively crew of SMB owners, marketers, and entrepreneurs ready to electrify their business strategies. 

This high-energy event was a no-holds-barred deep dive into TikTok’s power moves, turning attendees into digital dynamos poised to take the platform by storm.

TikTok’s Partnerships Manager Karan Parihar, highlighted the platform’s creative arsenal: “TikTok’s suite of creative tools is designed to elevate content creation and drive engagement. Features like our advanced video editor, which includes trimming, merging, and speed adjustments, enable users to craft polished videos effortlessly. Our extensive library of effects, filters, and soundtracks provides endless possibilities for customisation and originality. Additionally, TikTok’s algorithm-driven ‘For You Page’ ensures that content reaches the right audience, maximising visibility and interaction. The #GrowWithTikTok masterclass was an ideal setting to showcase these tools and illustrate how they can help businesses create impactful, engaging content that resonates with their target market and fuels growth.”

Throughout the day, 60+ attendees plunged into TikTok’s powerhouse features, discovering how to blast their brand into the spotlight, capture the attention of younger crowds, and showcase their products with electrifying creativity. The training was a wild ride through TikTok’s toolkit, transforming everyday businesses into viral sensations ready to make waves.

BK owner and a standout panellist Ashen Senarathna, raved about the community vibe on TikTok. “TikTok has totally flipped the script for my business and my life,” he said. “Thanks to the platform, BK now boasts the largest follower base of any restaurant in Sri Lanka. It’s all about backing each other up and sharing the love. I’m here to offer my support to all SMEs — hit me up anytime if you need advice or want to collaborate. Let’s keep pushing the envelope together.”

The workshop revealed how TikTok’s platform allows small businesses to make a splash without draining their budgets. Plus, participants got the lowdown on TikTok’s Community Guidelines, safety features, and the content moderation process. The interactive format ensured that everyone left with a solid game plan for crafting content that clicks with TikTok’s ever-evolving audience.

The creative force behind Imo Craft Nayomi Geethika, captivated the panel with her innovative resin craft brand. “TikTok has been pivotal for Imo Craft,” Nayomi said. “It’s allowed me to showcase my unique resin pieces to a broad audience and connect with customers in new ways. The platform also gives me the opportunity to support other businesses — I’ve created over 100 videos highlighting and collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs. If you’re interested in my resin crafts or want to explore collaborations, feel free to reach out to me.”

Nayomi also emphasised the importance of safety on TikTok. “Ensuring a safe and positive experience on TikTok is crucial for both creators and businesses,” she noted. “The platform offers robust safety features, including content moderation and community guidelines, to protect users and maintain a respectful environment. By understanding and leveraging these tools, we can safeguard our content and foster a secure space for creativity and collaboration. It’s all about using TikTok responsibly to enhance our business presence while keeping the community safe.”

Sithmi Kavindi also has leveraged TikTok to transform her entrepreneurial journey, amassing 42.1K followers and 184.4K likes with her insightful trading content. “TikTok has been a game-changer for me,” Sithmi said. “The platform has not only expanded my reach but also allowed me to connect with a community interested in trading. By sharing my expertise and inviting others to join my trading WhatsApp group, I’ve built a dynamic network of like-minded individuals eager to learn and grow together. TikTok’s visibility and engagement tools have been crucial in turning my passion for trading into a thriving entrepreneurial venture, demonstrating how powerful social media can be in driving business success.”

The #GrowWithTikTok event was a powerhouse networking hub for SMBs, where industry trailblazers mingled, exchanged strategies, and tackled shared challenges. This high-voltage atmosphere sparked collaboration and forged connections, setting the stage for explosive growth and innovative partnerships. In Sri Lanka, where SMBs are the heartbeat of the economy, TikTok is positioning itself as a game-changing ally, committed to fueling their growth and amplifying their impact in the digital era.